Bill > HB1098

This bill creates a new county local road program by establishing a county local road trust account within the motor vehicle fund to support improvements to local county roads that are not federally classified as arterial or collector roads. The bill defines key terms such as "community facility" and "overburdened community" and outlines the County Road Administration Board's responsibilities in managing the program. The board will adopt rules for selecting road improvement projects based on criteria including investment in overburdened communities, environmental health disparities, proximity to tribal lands, road safety, pedestrian access, and alignment with existing planning documents. Eligible project types include road rehabilitation, reconstruction, bridge replacement, fish passage barrier removal, and pedestrian facility improvements. Counties must provide matching funds and can only receive funds if they have spent road-related revenues appropriately, with exceptions for smaller counties or those with voter-approved fund diversions. The bill prioritizes collaboration between counties, cities, and the state transportation department in planning road improvements and allows for emergency project considerations. The new program is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is considered necessary for public safety and support of state infrastructure.

Government Affairs, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1098&Year=2025&Initiative=false