Despite widespread calls for infrastructure investments, the House of Representatives failed to pass the transportation package today. The final vote count, which can be seen here in detail, was 48 in favor, 42 against, 7 excused. 49 votes were needed to pass.
Passage of a transportation package was a high priority for business, labor, local government, and environmental groups throughout the state. The Port of Tacoma is particularly disappointed with the vote
The package included funding for the completion of State Route 167, which many legislators described as the single largest economic development project in the state, with the prospect of creating 80,000 permanent jobs statewide and $10 billion in payroll. The completion of this project is extremely important for the Port to continue to compete in an extremely competitive global trade market.
Several lawmakers deserve recognition for their courageous vote in support of the package, including:
- Dawn Morrell (Puyallup)
- Hans Zeiger (Puyallup)
- Larry Seaquist (Gig Harbor)
- Jake Fey (Tacoma)
- Laurie Jinkins (Tacoma)
- Tami Green (Lakewood)
- David Sawyer (Tacoma)
- Steve Kirby (Tacoma)
- Roger Freeman (Federal Way)
Despite this setback, we look forward to the day--hopefully soon-- when we will celebrate the groundbreaking of the SR-167 completion project.