The Senate on Monday night passed the transportation revenue bill (SB 5987) and bond bill (SB 5989) that will pay for the completion of State Route 167. The Senate is expected to take up the bill authorizing the construction projects (including SR 167) on Tuesday.

Senators Randi Becker, Bruce Dammeier, Jan Angel, Jeannie Darneille, Steve O'Ban, and Mark Miloscia-- who represent parts of Pierce County-- courageously voted for the two bills.

Senator Marko Lias, speaking in support of the package, communicated the importance of the package to Washington's economy and the ports. "We saw what happens when our ports don't function during last winter's labor unrest," he said. "Cargo slows and produce literally rots on the docks. We need to invest in transportation to ensure cargo moves and congestion doesn't result in similar slow downs."

The bills now head to the House of Representatives, which will hopefully take up the measures on Tuesday.