HOUSE BILL REPORT

HCR 4435

BYRepresentatives Cantwell, Vekich, Schoon, K. Wilson, B. Williams, Heavey, Beck, Kremen, Sanders and Fisher

Considering transportation needs in policy development.

House Committe on Trade & Economic Development

Majority Report:  Do pass. (17)

      Signed by Representatives Vekich, Chair; Wineberry, Vice Chair; Amondson, Beck, Cantwell, Doty, Fox, Grant, Hargrove, Heavey, Holm, Kremen, Moyer, Rasmussen, Schoon, B. Williams and J. Williams.

House Staff:Bonnie Austin (786-7107)

AS PASSED HOUSE FEBRUARY 15, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Many of the economic development assessments, priorities, and agendas established over the past several years have included the impacts of such factors as taxes, education, the environment and welfare on the state economy.  However, these assessments, priorities, and agendas have generally not included an examination of the state's transportation system.

Some out-of-state businesses are reportedly reluctant to locate in the state due to lack of adequate transportation systems.  A comprehensive, balanced, integrated, intermodal statewide transportation system is vital to the state's economic development.

The Department of Transportation has a program underway to develop internal policies to support economic development and to foster better cooperation with all levels of governments, the private sector, and the public.

SUMMARY:

The Departments of Trade and Economic Development and Community Development, and other economic development organizations are directed to establish processes in coordination with the Department of Transportation to ensure that transportation is included as a major element in policy development.  The Washington State Economic Development Board shall include consideration of future transportation policy in its final report to the legislature.

Fiscal Note:      Requested February 1, 1988.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Representative Maria Cantwell; Steve Lindstrom, Director, Washington State Transit Association.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    Transportation is an integral element of economic development.  Currently transportation impacts are only considered in the CERB context.  We need better agency coordination of transportation and economic development.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.