Date:  Friday, July 23, 2010

Contact: Steve Pierce, WSDOT Communications Director, (360)705-7075
Connie Rus, (360)705-7423

OLYMPIA – Improvement projects and transportation investments for Washington State Ferries (WSF), the Keller Ferry in Eastern Washington, and U.S. 12 in Southeast Washington are moving another step forward with federal funding designation, announced this week by U.S. Senator Patty Murray.

Governor Gregoire and Secretary of Transportation Paula Hammond applaud Senator Murray in advancing these transportation investments for Washington state.

"Thanks to Senator Patty Murray's leadership, we are advancing projects that support Washington's economy, address critical transportation needs and are creating good paying jobs," said Gov. Gregoire.

“These crucial federal investments will help Washington continue to improve highway safety, address growing congestion and make important improvements to our aging ferry vessels and terminals,” said Secretary Paula Hammond.

Senator Murray, chair of the Transportation Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations subcommittee, announced the subcommittee’s spending bill which included:

• WSF, SAFETEA-LU set aside - $5 million – For the 2010 fiscal year, Washington state is authorized $5 million for projects within the marine highways system. Funds are available for ferry boat and terminal projects which operate on routes classified as a “public road.” Funding priority is given to projects that provide critical access to areas not served well by other modes of transportation; carry the greatest number of vehicles and passengers; or carry the greatest number of passengers in passenger-only vehicles.
• WSF System Investments, $2 million – This project will increase pedestrian safety and accessibility, enhance traveler information and security communications, and reduce toxins entering Puget Sound. Included are safety improvements for pedestrians; equipment to treat runoff from ferry terminal parking and holding lots; enhancements to the existing wireless communication system; and, ADA accessibility improvements at terminals to assist persons with mobility challenges.
• Keller Ferry Replacement Project, $2 million – The Keller Ferry has been in service for more than 60 years and the Washington State Department of Transportation has determined that it has reached the end of its useful life. Funding will support replacement of the ferry with one that meets current U.S. Coast Guard safety requirements and enhances freight delivery.
• U.S. 12 Safety Improvements, $1 million – Funds will support right-of-way purchasing for the next phases of the U.S. 12 widening project between Burbank and Walla Walla. The project expands U.S. 12 from two lanes to a four-lane divided highway. The project reduces the risk of collisions, supports economic development throughout the region and addresses growing congestion.
• Interstate 5 West Coast Green Highway Electrification Demonstration Project - $1 million - WSDOT will receive funding for the construction and placement of 11 electric vehicle-charging locations along the Interstate 5 corridor. This project will provide clean transportation and emerging technologies and attract commuters and green-technology industries that are looking to locate or expand their business opportunities in an electric vehicle-ready region.
• Columbia River Crossing Project, $42 million - WSDOT will receive federal funding to be used for preliminary engineering, final design and right of way for the Columbia River Crossing project. This comprehensive project provides livability, sustainability, economic development and freight mobility improvements to Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon by increasing safety, reducing congestion, improving air quality and increasing transit, bicycle and pedestrian transportation options.

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WSDOT keeps people, businesses and the economy moving by operating and improving the state's transportation systems. To learn more about what we're doing, go to www.wsdot.wa.gov/news for pictures, videos, news and blogs. Real time traffic information is available at www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic or by dialing 5-1-1.

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