Date:  Tuesday, February 08, 2011

Contact: Steve Pierce, WSDOT Communications, 360-705-7076

OLYMPIA - Washington Secretary of Transportation Paula Hammond today applauded Vice President Joe Biden’s announcement and the Obama administration’s broad vision for investing in the nation’s transportation system, including $53 billion over six years for high-speed rail. Hammond attended the Biden event in Philadelphia representing the States for Passenger Rail Coalition, which she chairs.

“We look forward to the commitments made in the president’s State of the Union address and recognition of an integrated transportation system that includes infrastructure investment, not only for rail, but for highways, bridges, ferries and runways,” said Hammond.

“An integrated system that supports transit and rail gives people transportation options. Just as important is federal funding for projects of national significance in Washington state such as the new I-5 Columbia River bridge, the I-90 Snoqualmie Pass corridor, and I-405 improvements – and the jobs they create.”

“Washington’s future economic competitiveness is threatened by increased highway congestion and declining roadway conditions,” she said. “A recovered economy will depend on an integrated transportation system that works for everyone.”

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