Bellevue city leaders celebrate trasportation infrastructure funding from state legislature

As the Washington Legislature wrapped up a 60-day session, the passage of a new $16.9 billion transportation package marks what the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce is calling a major legislative victory for Eastside legislators and the City of Bellevue.

The legislation, entitled “Move Ahead WA,” makes significant investments in the state’s highways, ferries, transit, bike and pedestrian corridors. In Bellevue specifically, this legislation secures nearly $500 million in funding for Bellevue-area projects, including a $450 million investment for the Interstate 405 Corridor Improvements.

Other Bellevue projects funded by “Move Ahead Wa” include:

Rapid Flashing Beacon on State St at 7th Avenue S: $150,000

Eastrail Multi-use corridor through Bellevue: $18 million

Mountains to Sound Greenway Trail “Bellevue Gap”: $6.9 million

Sidewalk on the East Side of 116th Ave NE from NE 73rd to North of NE 75th Place: $500,000

SR 520 & 148th Ave NE bicycle/pedestrian crossing: $8 million

“Bellevue will face unprecedented infrastructure challenges as the city continues to be a top destination for new residents and businesses. The funding secured by our Eastside legislators will further solidify Bellevue as an economic powerhouse in the region,” said Dave Hamilton, Chair of the Bellevue Chamber’s Policy Council.

In a press release statement, the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce and the City of Bellevue expressed their gratitude for the work of Senators Patty Kuderer, Lisa Wellman, as well Representatives Vandana Slatter, Amy Walen, My-Linh Thai, and Tana Senn among others.

“Many of the projects funded by Move Ahead WA were included in the City of Bellevue and the Chamber’s joint transportation priorities for 2021 and 2022,” said Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson. “The allocation of nearly $500 million to benefit our city will ensure Bellevue keeps pace with growth and continues to be a great place to raise a family or own a business for years to come.”

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Source: Bellevue Reporter