About I-976
I am committed to improving Washington's 2nd District — that includes making it a better, fairer, and safer place to live.
Because of that commitment, I am writing to you today to announce my opposition to Tim Eyman's I-976, an initiative that if passed would have far-reaching and devastating impacts on funding for transportation and public transit across Washington state and especially in our region.
When you drive to work, drop your kids off at school, or go on a road trip, you want to be driving in safe conditions. But I-976 threatens billions of dollars in crucial improvements for our roads, rails, bridges, and highways — projects that keep you safe on the road.
That's why troopers and firefighters — people who work every day protecting us — agree that I-976 is bad for our communities.
Not only does I-976 jeopardize public safety, but it would also have a devastating impact on our economy. Serving on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I've seen firsthand how cities and states that don't invest in their transportation lose out on attracting and retaining the best jobs.
I don't want that to happen here, but that means we must reject I-976. Because whether you live in Snohomish, Whatcom, San Juan, Skagit, or Island county — the cuts will be severe.
- I-976 would cut $20 billion of voter-approved funding for Sound Transit, delaying or eliminating expansions of light rail, bus, and rail service.
- I-876 would cut nearly $4 million in local funding to fix potholes and keep bus lines running in cities like Everett, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, and Sedro-Woolley.
And for those of you who use ferries as your main form of public transportation, the news is even worse. I-976 jeopardizes $1.3 billion in ferry vessel improvements between now and 2031, putting at risk:
- $188 million for a new state ferry
- $19 million for the Lopez ferry terminal
- $21 million for the Orcas ferry terminal
- $10 million for the Friday Harbor terminal,
- and $20 million for the Keystone terminal.
Cuts this large will be a decrease in ferry service, higher fares or both. The bottom line is, these cuts mean longer commutes and wait times, more congestion, bridges and roads that are less safe, and less reliable public transit options.
So when you get your ballots this week, make sure to vote NO on I-976. It's too costly and it just won't work for us here in Washington's 2nd District.
Join me, and vote NO on I-976.
Rick
