Senators were reminded of the importance of transportation to a successful, thriving maritime industry during a hearing before the Senate Transportation Committee. This point was delivered by Joshua Berger, coordinator for the Washington Maritime Federation, and James Thompson of the Washington Public Ports Association.

Of note, both highlighted the importance of completing state routes 167 and 509.

“The Washington Maritime Federation supports completion of international trade corridors of statewide significance like 167 and 509,” Berger said. "Our competitiveness depends on the ability to reliably move cargo through our ports and the rest of the transportation system.”

Thompson agreed, noting that, “Shippers need reliability. Halted supply chains due to congestion and disappointed customers are definitely not desired outcomes.”