Statement on tolling I-90: Rich recently had a discussion with a concerned voter regarding the tolling of I-90. Below is his statement on the issue. --- In my mind tolling is the single biggest issue the City Council has on its plate. I have consistently spoken out throughout my campaign against I-90 tolling and in the interests of Mercer Island. Solving this problem for the long term will take a multi-year, multifaceted approach and will require taking a strong stand with a number of key players, including Rep. Clibborn. I am up for that fight. Mercer Island’s leaders successfully negotiated for our interests regarding I-90 – from the 1970s on – by joining with neighboring cities. We need to make sure that our neighbors continue to be aligned with our position now. The Puget Sound Regional Council and the Eastside Transportation Partnership are also key to any lasting regional solution. We must continue actively working in Olympia to ensure that the state’s Environmental Impact Statement reflects the full impact of I-90 tolling – one that is both regional and that includes a financial impact assessment. At the Federal level, Rep. Reichert has publicly challenged I-90 tolling. Rep. Smith voiced his concerns in a recent letter to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. The Federal Highways Administration, the Department of Transportation, and the Environmental Protection Agency are all involved and we need to continue to work for the additional support of our Washington, DC senators to keep the heat on them. I’m committed to working tirelessly both publicly and behind the scenes. We will solve this.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Jul 2013 22:32:17 +0000
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