The State House voted 52-46 on Friday to start tolling on the State Route 520 floating bridge as early as this August to pay for its replacement.
Originally introduced by Transportation chair Judy Clibborn (D-Mercer Island), House Bill 2211 gives the Washington State Department of Transportation authority to introduce tolling, spend $1.2 billion in toll-backed bonds for the floating bridge portion of the project and forms legislative sub-committees to guide the final project design phase.
It also sets the state-funding total for the project at $4.65 billion.
Efforts to start tolling the bridge appeared to split the votes of local officials and legislators, who disagreed over whether they should also introduce a toll on I-90. Both Deb Eddy (D-Kirkland) and Ross Hunter (D-Medina) from the 48th District voted against the bill, while Roger Goodman and Larry Springer of the 45th District voted in favor. Both districts include Redmond.
“I agree that early tolling is a good strategy and I appreciate the efforts that so many have put into crafting this legislation,” Eddy said. “But the bill as it is written today is not sound public policy. We are preparing to launch one of the most expensive and important transportation projects in our state and this legislation falls far short of addressing key issues involving process, funding for Eastside projects and dealing with I-90.”
Eddy said she supported the bill in committee but was unable to amend it later. Another amendment – brought by Rep. Springer – to allow tolling sooner and cap spending on the bridge at $4.65 billion, did pass.
The tolling is planned to be set at a variable rate and registers payment through the use of electronic transponders. The rates are not yet determined, but a rate of $1.50 to $3.80 has received the most support so far.
A public hearing on the tolling legislation is scheduled to be heard by the Senate Committee on Transportation this morning.
Eddy and Hunter proposed alternative legislation earlier that included triggers for when tolling on the I-90 floating bridge would occur. They both criticized the bill and said they’ll press for changes that address critical issues the current legislation ignores.
“It’s critical that we show the wisdom and leadership necessary to bring the right people to the right conversations, make sound decisions and get this entire corridor upgraded,” Eddy said. “The legislation as written sets up a process better suited to a political event. I want a process that ensures better and hopefully, quicker decisions throughout the life of the project.”
