Gov. Gregoire�s statement on House 520 transportation legislation

For Immediate Release: April 17, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire released the following statement on the passage of State Route 520 tolling legislation:

�In hard times, history has proven that people come together to find solutions for the greater good. Today, I am very pleased to see House leadership rising to the occasion and approving legislation that will allow us to move forward on 520 construction. I specifically want to thank Speaker Chopp and Representative Clibborn for their dedication and perseverance on this issue.

�The legislation includes authorization for early pontoon construction, the foundation of the 520 bridge construction, early tolling on 520 and the financial support to get the 520 bridge built. These actions will provide for critical safety improvements, create more jobs, and provide for more capacity and easier commutes through the corridor.

�I commend the members of the House of Representatives for their leadership and their commitment to the replacement of this vulnerable structure.�