Denny Heck, candidate for the 10th Congressional District seat, speaking at the Regional Access Mobility Partnership (RAMP) this morning said, "SR-167 is arguably the number one job creating project in Washington state. We can't get everything done. But I can say that my number one priority in Congress will be completing SR-167." His opponent, Dick Muri, agreed: "I know SR-167 is an economic development priority and the federal government has a role."

Why should this project be a priority for whoever eventually represents the 10th Congressional District? One answer lies in an understanding of their constituents. More Port of Tacoma employees live in the 10th than any other congressional district. The district is also home to the second most number of longshore workers.