Supporters of the completion of State Route 167 expressed vocal support for the compromise transportation package released yesterday by a bipartisan group of state senators.

The ports of Tacoma and Seattle, in a joint news release, "welcome the proposal by the Washington State Senate for a $15 billion transportation revenue package that would benefit the state’s economy by speeding the movement of cargo through the ports."

“We want to thank lawmakers for their hard work and collaboration to develop this transportation package. It is critical for our ports to maintain a competitive edge and supports the Seaport Alliance,” said Port of Tacoma Commission President Don Johnson. “Completing state routes 167 and 509 will keep and grow jobs throughout Washington state.”

Port of Seattle Commission Co-President Courtney Gregoire agreed: "Washington farmers, manufacturers and businesses of all sizes need an efficient transportation system to reach global markets,” she said. “This package means jobs and economic development across our state, and we thank our senators and legislators for recognizing the need to invest in transportation infrastructure.”

The SR 167 Completion Coalition also applauded the release of the package. In a statement released by the Coalition, Rep. Denny Heck declared: “Regional business, labor, Tribal, elected and community leaders have worked tirelessly to secure the funding necessary to complete SR 167. It is a vital project for the survival of our region and State and I welcome the opportunity to work with both House and Senate leadership in the weeks to come to ensure that our State has the necessary infrastructure to compete in the global economy."

Tom Pierson, president and CEO of the Tacoma/Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, followed the Congressman’s sentiment when he stated: “We applaud the bipartisan leadership in the State Senate with the release of their transportation package. This significant step moves us closer to ensuring more jobs in our state—we must make investments to be more globally competitive.”

The Coalition continues to support the idea that the completion of SR 167 is the single most important transportation project as it relates to improving the Pacific Northwest’s ability to move people and freight.

The uncompleted portion of SR 167 is a critical missing link in Washington’s transportation system. Without completion, over the next two decades Washington risks losing out on significant amounts of new public and private revenue to other ports along the Pacific Coast.

“The completion of SR 167 is an economic no brainer. The boost it will provide our economy will dwarf its cost. We must get started now and I think the Senate bill will prove to be a major push in that direction,” said Port of Tacoma Commissioner Dick Marzano.

Coverage of the announcement was widespread, with stories picked up by the News Tribune, Seattle Times, KOMO and KING television.