Local measures will get Mukilteo traffic moving

By now, Mukilteo voters have heard about the roads and transit package that is being proposed to help fund the region’s transportation woes. This issue will be on the general election ballot in November. What voters might not know is that there is nothing in that package for the City of Mukilteo despite its multi-billion-dollar price tag.

Fortunately, Mukilteo residents will have a chance to fund local transportation projects for our city by voting yes on Propositions 1 and 2 in the August primary. Combined, both propositions aren’t cheap, but they do fund some important transportation projects within the city limits.

Proposition 1 would build 14 projects in the City of Mukilteo for $12.5 million over 10 years. This would be funded by a permanent increase to our property taxes of approximately 29-cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation, or $10.88 per month for the owner of a $450,000 home. Transportation projects include three turn lanes on the Mukilteo Speedway, bike paths, and road safety improvements on 84th Street SW. While the bulk of this levy (almost $8 million) is for better traffic flow, there are also projects to build recreation trails and make improvements to our local parks.

Proposition 2 would fund a bond for $10.8 million over nine years after which time it would expire. This levy increase would be for 41 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation, or approximately $15.36 per month for an owner of a $450,000 home. Most of the funds would be used to extend Harbour Reach Drive to Beverly Park Road. This project alone would take 10,000 vehicles off the Mukilteo Speedway each day and is a worthy investment for our environment, community, safety and traffic woes.

While I disagree with the council decision to combine this project with the Rose Hill Park, I still intend to support this proposition. It’s imperative to Mukilteo that this extension be completed and ultimately, the two propositions cost less than the regional transportation package. Please join me in voting yes on Propositions 1 and 2 on your primary ballot.

J. Paul Rand served on the Mukilteo Police Advisory Board, the Parks and Arts Commission, and the Mukilteo City Council for 10 years. He currently owns a local business and raises his young daughter in Mukilteo.

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