Traffic delays on Washington highways cost estimated $624 million

OLYMPIA — The state Transportation Department estimates that delayed traffic on Washington highways in 2006 had an economic cost of $624 million.

A report released Tuesday says 40 percent of the congestion was caused by too many cars on too little road. Bad weather accounted for 15 percent and construction for 10 percent.

The department also reported:

  • Since 1980, the number of licensed drivers has risen by 76 percent, and miles traveled on state highways increased 110 percent.
  • In the same period, the lane miles of state highways grew 10 percent.
  • The state is in the midst of its biggest road-construction boom but struggling to contain costs as the price of materials increases.

    Information from: The Olympian, http://www.theolympian.com

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