Drafter
Clerk 09/07/2004
title
AN ORDINANCE establishing November 2, 2004, as the date for an advisory election on the question of whether a publicly funded plan of transportation investments should be developed and placed on the ballot in 2005.
body
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF KING COUNTY:
SECTION 1. Findings:
A. State funding for improving and maintaining Puget Sound's transportation infrastructure has not kept pace with growth in the region and the demand placed upon our transportation system.
B. The Alaskan Way Viaduct, the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge and other key corridors are in danger of failing if improvements are not completed.
C. The current congestion levels across King, Pierce and Snohomish counties prevent people and goods from moving efficiently throughout the region and significantly impact the quality of life of Puget Sound residents.
D. Reducing congestion and increasing mobility in all corridors of regional significance is essential in allowing for a vital economy and sustained economic development.
E. Recognizing that funding for improving Puget Sound's transportation problem has been inadequate, in 2002 the Washington state legislature passed legislation creating the Regional Transportation Investment District. This legislation authorized county councilmembers from King, Pierce and Snohomish counties to develop a plan for improving transportation in the Puget Sound area and present it to voters for approval. This plan would require that every dollar raised in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties be directed to projects located in the respective county. A seven-member executive board of the Regional Transportation Investment District has been working with state and local officials as well as business, labor and environmental leaders to identify projects and develop a plan for voter approval.
F. Puget Sound voters have faced two advisory ballot measures related to transportation since 1988. Voters in Ki...
Click here for full text