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16th District lawmakers seek
state funding for
pedestrian bridge in Pasco
Court Street overpass on Highway SR 395 is
dangerous, inhibits local economy
A trio of 16th District
lawmakers are making a push for partial state funding of a pedestrian
bridge in Pasco that they believe will lead to better safety and more
economic vitality for the area.
“People are crossing Highway 395 at Court Street and it’s a really
dangerous situation,” said
Rep. Maureen Walsh, R-Walla Walla.
“Not only do we want to ensure public safety, we believe this pedestrian
bridge will enhance the local economy by connecting more people to the
entertainment and shopping in the area.”
The City of Pasco is willing to commit $500,000 to the estimated
$900,000 project, and 16th District lawmakers would like the state to
pitch in the rest.
“The City of Pasco is stepping up with significant funding at the local
level and we believe the state should also play a role in this important
project,” said Walsh. “Pasco is one of the state’s
fastest-growing communities with leading trade centers, a strong service
industry, and agricultural growth. It’s important we support these
economic opportunities with an investment at the state level.”
The interchange creates a dangerous physical barrier for pedestrians
that many people believe splits Pasco into two separate areas. The 16th
District lawmakers want the pedestrian bridge to connect around 2,000
local people who live within one-quarter mile to shopping,
entertainment, and other opportunities in the area.
“The safety and accessibility of the Court Street overpass should not be
compromised in any way,” said Rep. Bill Grant, D-Walla Walla.
“This project is a much-needed improvement for the city, and I support
the allocation of state capital budget funds to help make this happen.”
Senate Republican Leader Mike Hewitt sent a letter to Democrat
and Republican leaders of the Senate Ways and Means Committee expressing
his support for the state’s involvement with the project.
“The Court Street overpass over 395 just isn’t a safe way for people to
cross the highway,” said Hewitt, R-Walla Walla. “Senior citizens,
people on bikes, and moms with strollers all cross it in fear of the
cars whizzing by at high speeds. It’s the only pedestrian link between
the two main parts of Pasco, but it is hardly usable. I will push hard
for the state to provide funding for this important pedestrian
crossing.”
For more information on Walsh visit:
http://www.houserepublicans.wa.gov/Walsh/
For more information on Grant visit:
http://housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/grant/index.asp\
For more information on Hewitt visit:
http://src.leg.wa.gov/hewitt/default.htm
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