April 25, 2009

Three key local projects receive funding in transportation budget
Herrera works with House Transportation Committee chair to secure funding 

Three key local projects received funding in the state's $7.5 billion transportation budget that passed off the House floor today. Rep. Jaime Herrera voted for the budget and worked in a bipartisan way with the House Transportation Committee chair to secure the necessary funding. 

"In tough economic times it's vital for our communities to build and maintain infrastructure -- not just for job creation, but to ensure that goods and services move efficiently in the future," said Herrera, R-Ridgefield. "These three projects are also important for maintaining safety and relieving congestion on our roadways. I'm happy they are moving forward."

The projects are as follows:

• State Route 14/Camas Washougal. Adding lanes and building an interchange will help with safety, congestion relief and economic development.

• I-5/State Route 501 Ridgefield Interchange. Local elected officials and voters stepped up to fund a portion of the project by creating a Transportation Benefit District. The current interchange was designed as a rural interchange, but needs to be expanded for additional growth.

• State Route 502 from I-5 to Battle Ground. Adding lanes will help with safety and congestion relief.

Herrera wrote a letter of support for the three projects to the House Transportation Committee chair on Feb. 16, and is grateful for her efforts.

"I appreciate the efforts of Chairwoman Judy Clibborn in supporting these projects. She understood that promises were made to voters in Clark County when the state increased its gas tax by 9.5 cents. And the promises of these three projects are being kept," said Herrera. "Our state still has a long way to go to ensure its transportation system is safe, efficient and not harming its economy. But this is a step in the right direction for the people of Southwest Washington."  

The 2009 legislative session is scheduled to conclude tomorrow, April 26.

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For more information, contact: John Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758