Bill > SB5690

This bill amends existing Washington state law to expand the Department of Transportation's (DOT) responsibilities regarding utility and broadband infrastructure coordination. The bill requires the DOT to proactively notify broadband facility and utility owners about upcoming state highway and fish barrier removal projects, providing at least one year of advance notice when possible. The legislation encourages the DOT to seek federal funding for utility relocation costs during fish barrier removal projects, specifically allowing these costs to be included in federal funding requests if they meet eligibility requirements. The DOT must report to legislative transportation committees and the office of financial management by December 15, 2026, detailing any federal funding requests, awards received, and recommendations for improving the state's ability to secure competitive federal grants for utility relocation. The bill builds upon existing provisions that allow DOT to coordinate broadband infrastructure installation during road construction projects, with the goals of reducing future traffic impacts, supporting telework, and preparing transportation infrastructure for autonomous vehicles. Broadband facility owners would still need to obtain a franchise from the DOT and would be responsible for their own installation and maintenance costs.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5690&Year=2025&Initiative=false