Update from Rep Lytton

Dear friends and neighbors, 

I hope this message finds you well and enjoying the summer! In my most recent updates, I have touched on session outcomes with the operating and capital budgets and many policy bills. Today I’ll share an update on the transportation budget and a progress update on the Skagit River Bridge. 

I often hear from people confused about our budgets here in Washington. The first thing to remember is that Washington has three budgets—capital, operating, and transportation. Each of these budgets is considered and passed separately. The capital budget funds infrastructure investments, and the operating budget funds many programs including our schools and social services. And, of course, the transportation budget funds transportation in our state. 

2013-2015 Transportation Budget

On the last day of the regular session, the House and Senate came to agreement on the 2013-15 transportation budget, and the bill was signed by the Governor. This budget will continue work on critical transportation projects and maintain thousands of good jobs across the state. This budget compromise targeted both an emphasis on reforming the system and a push for the most-needed projects that will immediately benefit Washington businesses. From ferries to freight mobility, transit to road repairs, this budget makes investments to keep Washington moving forward. For more information on the budget, check out fiscal.wa.gov. 

Transportation Revenue Package

In addition to the bare-bones transportation budget discussed above, there was a major focus this session on developing and passing a revenue package to make additional investments in our transportation infrastructure across the state. A broad coalition of labor, business, environmental, and community stakeholders joined together in advocating for these additional investments to support job creation and ensure Washington’s continued reputation as a great place to live and do business. 

The House passed a revenue package in the closing days of the special session to help us address our long-term transportation needs and keep our economy moving. Unfortunately, the Senate failed to act on the package prior to the end of session. As Governor Inslee expressed, this was a great disappointment for people across our state who were hoping to see needed investments in roads, transit, ferries, and much more. 

Many of my colleagues are continuing the discussion around a revenue package, and I am hopeful that we can reach an agreement to move forward on many critical projects. 

Skagit River Bridge Update

I’m sure many of you have been monitoring the progress on the Skagit River Bridge closely. It was a relief to have the temporary span installed so quickly after the bridge collapse. I truly appreciate the hard work of the WSDOT crews and the patience of community members as work continues! 

The temporary span has been in place since mid-June, and we anticipate the installation of the permanent span in mid-September. The new bridge will be in place by October 1. For ongoing updates, including some interesting photos, please check the WSDOT website.  

I have heard from many constituents with questions about the safety other bridges in our district and around the state. WSDOT has comprehensive information about bridges in our state, including the Bridge Assessment Annual Report, an explanation of what the ratings mean, and a list of bridges identified as “structurally deficient” by county.

Out and About in the 40th

I often remind my fellow legislators that the 40th is one of the most beautiful districts in the state, and I’ve been taking every chance to enjoy the great community events and wonderful scenery. I’d like to highlight a couple of opportunities this summer.

• The Burke Museum has its travelling exhibit, Salish Bounty: Traditional Native American Foods of Puget Sound, on display at the Orcas Island Historical Museum in Eastsound until Sunday September 29th. Head over on the ferry for a day or the weekend, and check out this great exhibit.
• Take a Trail Tales Tour around the Anacortes waterfront to learn about Skagit Beaches and the Department of Ecology’s cleanup project. 

Trail Tales tour group and a view of the cleanup project.

If you have suggestions of other activities or events around the 40th District, let me know! And, as always, please continue to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. You can reach my via email (kristine.lytton@leg.wa.gov) or call my office (360.786.7800). 

Regards, Kristine