A safe, efficient transportation system is vital to our economy and quality of life. From manufacturers to retailers, students to retirees, we all depend on a healthy transportation system to move people and freight. Economic Alliance Snohomish County works tirelessly with our partners to see that c
ritical infrastructure projects are supported to assure our region remains globally competitive. In our opinion, these goals would be seriously and negatively impacted by the passage of I-1125.
Although the potential effects of I-1125 in Snohomish County have not been documented to the extent of those in King County, it is safe to assume they will be similarly disastrous. As we work to secure critical improvements on I-5, U.S. 2 and Highway 9 to improve safety, reduce congestion and increase transit service, I-1125 will make our projects less competitive against other regions vying for the same limited funding sources.
By shifting toll-setting authority to the Legislature, I-1125 allows decisions regarding tolls to be unduly influenced by regional politics rather than actual need. No other state in the nation subjects this administrative decision to the political process, but instead, vests authority in an independent commission as we currently do. Subjecting our projects to these additional risks will drive up project costs, if they get built at all, simply because bond investors will rate our projects as less secure investments.
Economic Alliance Snohomish County is committed to growing and retaining quality jobs in our region. This goal requires a competitive business climate, world-class education and workforce training system and a safe, efficient transportation network. Please help support your economic future by voting NO on I-1125.
Troy McClelland
CEO and president
Economic Alliance Snohomish County
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