Springer, Goodman secure money for local projects

The transportation budget proposal passed by the House on Friday would be a big win for east King County communities, and the state.

Reps. Larry Springer and Roger Goodman, both Democratic lawmakers from Kirkland, secured community investments for the 45th District in the state’s 2009-11 transportation budget, opening the door for substantial infrastructure improvements throughout the area.

“This is shaping up to be a great construction season around the state and our community is near the top of the list,” Goodman said. “To get the economy turned around, construction projects like these are a great place to start.”

The proposed budget would create around 46,000 jobs statewide with a $4.6 billion funding level over the next two years.

Interstate 405 is one of the most congested freeways in the state, but an investment of $1.6 billion over the next 16 years will go a long way to lessen the gridlock. Around $600 million of that work would be in the next four years alone.

The majority of the improvements to the 30-mile span will be in the form of widening projects. Although there are numerous plans to improve interchanges and safety.

Also on the agenda is a light-rail system over I-90, with $10.6 million slated to ensure two-way transit and high occupancy vehicle improvements move forward.

“We are making bold and much-needed improvements to a very busy stretch of road and at the same time putting people back to work,” Springer said. “It’s a win-win.”

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