Transportation Projects, SR 167, Highlight Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber’s Leg Day

On Friday, February 1, 2013 several key area business leaders met with Pierce County legislators for the Tacoma- Pierce County Chamber of Commerce’s first Legislative Advocacy Day of the session.

At the informal luncheon, business leaders and legislators discussed numerous issues, such as healthcare, education, and workforce and economic development. However, the major topic under discussion was transportation, and in particular, the full funding and complete construction of State Route 167, a top priority for the Chamber.

We have previously discussed the history behind the project. Still, it is important to note the project’s state-wide economic significance, the major driver for its completion. The project would not only create much needed jobs, but the completion would also speed up the shipment of freight through the Port of Tacoma, making it quicker, cheaper, and more efficient to transport goods from Eastern Washington and the Kent and Puyallup River valleys to international markets through the Port of Tacoma.

Other high priority projects discussed include the JBLM –I-5 Corridor and the Cross-Base highway.

Notable Pierce County legislators holding positions on the Senate and House Transportation Committees that were in attendance of the luncheon include Sen. Nathan Schlicher (D), Rep. Jan Angel (R), Rep. Linda Kochmar (R), Rep. Hans Zeiger (R), and Rep. Jake Fey (D).