$277.9 million public works program passes House

Seaquist bill authorizes low-interest loans for 52 community projects

January 23, 2008

OLYMPIA – The House today unanimously passed a $277.9 million public works bill that will support 52 projects across the state.  Brought to the Legislature by the Public Works Board, selected projects receive loans with no or low-interest.

This year’s project list is expected to create $1.9 billion in state economic activity.

“A non-partisan committee selects the most qualified projects, with a track record of reaching all four corners of the state and everything in-between,” said prime-sponsor Rep. Larry Seaquist (D-Gig Harbor).  “This is the epitome of good government.”

The Public Works Board is a non-partisan agency that selects projects submitted by local governments using a competitive process.  Bridges, roads, water and sewage systems, and solid waste and recycling facilities are projects eligible for assistance through this program.

“A lot of our towns are now quickly-growing cities, and they’re often hurting for appropriate services,” Seaquist said.  “People want to live here and it’s great to have a public works program to help communities with their growing pains.”

This year 52 projects are proposed that would leverage $546.3 million in investments from local governments.  The bill (HB 2437) now goes to the Senate for further consideration.

Projects funded in the 26th District

Two projects in communities Seaquist represents would receive assistance under the proposal. 

• Over $1.3 million for the Karcher Creek Sewer District

• $10 million for sewer improvements in Gig Harbor

“Pierce and Kitsap Counties are experience tremendous growth, so seeing these projects on the public works list is very rewarding,” Seaquist said.  “There’s a lot of need for infrastructure in our area and this funding will help address two important problems.”