Bill > HB2172

This bill modifies the process for transferring jurisdiction of state highways to local governments and for abandoning state highway routes. It requires the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to enter into an agreement with a city or county before abandoning any state highway segment that is longer than two miles or includes a bridge, and if an agreement cannot be reached, the proposed abandonment must be sent to the legislature for review. The bill also strengthens the role of an independent multijurisdictional body, referred to as "the commission," in reviewing requests for jurisdictional transfers and abandonments, requiring it to use specific criteria and report its findings, including potential costs and impacts, to legislative transportation committees annually. Furthermore, it updates the criteria for designating new state highways, emphasizing connectivity and continuity, and clarifies the process for urban highway designations. Finally, the bill specifies that if WSDOT and a local government cannot agree on the disposition of a decommissioned state highway segment exceeding two miles or including a bridge, the legislature will make the final determination.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2172&Year=2025&Initiative=false