Statement from House Transportation Committee Chair state Rep. Judy Clibborn (D-Mercer Island) regarding final passage of the 2008 supplemental transportation budget

March 12, 2008

“By definition, supplemental budgets are not exciting to most people.  But this budget is exciting to me because it is a great example of how people can find solutions when they decide to work together.

“Despite facing a $1.8 billion deficit brought on by a weakening gas tax, soaring inflation costs and declining federal funding, we were able to keep projects on track and present a workable plan to replace the SR 520 floating bridge.

"We are overhauling the ferry system, moving forward on the mega projects and are funding significant safety improvements on US Highway 2.

“Improving safety and relieving congestion across the state are always my top priorities when working on the transportation budget, and this year was no different.

“Next year will bring new issues and new challenges.  I look forward to working with members on both sides of the aisle, and in both chambers, to meet these challenges.”