Seaquist invites WSDOT to discuss Narrows Bridge

26th District Rep. wants leaner bridge budget, more funds toward reducing debt

August 24, 2007

GIG HARBOR – At the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce forum Wednesday, state transportation officials presented on the Tacoma Narrows Bridge project and took questions from community leaders with concerns about how it’s being operated.

“We knew tolls would pay for operation of the bridge, but not to the amount they’re using,” Rep. Larry Seaquist (D-Gig Harbor) said. “I wasn’t happy with 50 cents of each toll being used to run the bridge--over a dollar is unacceptable.”

Seaquist invited Washington State Department of Transportation officials after receiving interest from Chamber of Commerce members.

“Our delegation, Rep. Pat Lantz and Sen. Derek Kilmer, has been meeting with state officials consistently to see where we can make improvements to the bridge’s operation,” Seaquist said, “because ultimately every penny we can cut off of operation is a penny our kids won’t have to pay.”

Several issues have been raised about the bridge, including noise associated with metal joints on the new bridge deck. Seaquist wants DOT to work on mitigating each issue, but his top priority is cutting down staff and operations expenses now.

“The fact that a bridge needs a staff doesn’t make sense to me,” Seaquist said. “Beyond toll collectors, the public needs to know why each person is needed to keep this bridge running smoothly.”

“I’m encouraged that the state agencies involved have been more than willing to meet with us and listen to our concerns, and those of our constituents,” Lantz said. “It’s important to keep the public informed about the progress we’re making in these meetings.”

Department officials have been open and forthcoming with information to Seaquist and all parties plan to meet every two weeks to check on their progress.

The Washington State Patrol had previously agreed to decrease their amount of toll-paid state troopers from two, down to one, starting next year.

The tow trucks stationed at the bridge to help during congestion times will also be cut back. When traffic increases with the start of the school year, officials will reevaluate the need.

Bridge officials have also agreed to cut back their requested staffing needs, although how much of a cut is still under discussion.

“Our legislative delegation is working hard to bring these costs down right now,” Seaquist said. “We’re just five months away from our next legislative session, so if needed we can address any remaining problems then.”

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Staff contact: Andrew Dziedzic (425) 922-7907

Radio and TV News Directors: To obtain broadcast-quality audio on this issue, or to arrange for TV or radio interviews, please contact Caucus Broadcast Coordinator Dan Frizzell at ^{frizzell.dan@leg.wa.gov or 360.786.7208.}