washington

Washington state Department of Transportation (WsDOT) say they have finalized the contract with Electronic Transaction Consultants (ETC) of Dallas TX to establish a new customer service center for tolling statewide.

Washington state is a hot spot for new toll projects - and big, bold projects to boot. We reported recently on the array of alternatives being considered for the longrange transportation plan for the region - all of which involve substantial reliance on tolls - plus acceptance of tolls on the presently untolled 520 bridge ahead of construction of a wider replacement bridge, but there's more.

Seattle metro area governments are choosing a longrange plan from a set of alternatives all of which involve more tolls. Analysis of costs and benefits makes tolling of all expressways and arterials look like a good choice. But that choice won't be formally made until May 2010 (contrary to our initial, incorrect posting last week - editor)

Legislation has been passed in Washington state that allows two huge toll projects to proceed in the Seattle metro area - state route 520 (WA520) floating bridge replacement and state route 99 (WA99) Alaskan Way toll tunnel. Washington state department of transportation (WSDOT) plan to issue a request for proposals (RFP) for a 520 toll system and customer service.

Washington state transportation commissioners have voted provisionally to increase electronic toll rates at the Tacoma Narrows Bridge for cars from $2.75 to $3.25, or 18%, effective July 1. Cash toll rates will remain at $4.00. To take effect a second meeting of the commission scheduled for April 22 has to vote to confirm the hike following a period for public comment.

Plans to reimpose tolls on at least one of two major Seattle area bridges are moving forward with political and public support. Tolls would begin in 2010 on the existing WA520 over Lake Washington to provide funds for major reconstruction and some extra lanes, and for traffic management to allow freer flow and improved speeds. The tolls would continue when the new and improved bridge opened in around 2016.