ADVOCACY
Shared Legislative Agenda 2022 Each year, the Public Policy Division of the Thurston Chamber convenes the Shared Legislative Partnership. The Partnership works to advance regional priorities for the upcoming State Legislative session. These priorities, when approved, will provide multiple and broad benefits to the entire region due to the significant scope and impact across and between entities. The list of regional priorities for 2022 includes: Interstate 5 – Mounts Road to Tumwater and the Nisqually River Delta As the Legislature considers a transportation funding package in the 2022 Legislative Session, it should include $125 million to support the design, engineering, and right of way phases to replace the Nisqually River bridges with a wider span that addresses salmon habitat and flood 8 I
January 2022
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Thurston County Chamber VOICE
risk issues, modify the two train trestles near milepost 115, and add a lane in both directions of I-5 from milepost 111 to 116. In addition, resources are required to complete 507-510 Loop and Roundabouts and implement regional Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies. Previous investments from the Legislature and WSDOT equal to $5 million provide for the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review of key strategies to reduce congestion, improve salmon habitat, and reduce flood risk in the region. The Nisqually Indian Tribe and U.S. Geological Survey's recent report found that with projected sea-level rise, increased flood frequency and severity, and current rates of erosion, the Nisqually River will undercut I-5 between 2040 and 2055. Although the NEPA review won't be complete for 2 to 3 years, the next critical step is to ensure funding for the project's preliminary design and engineering and right of way acquisition phases as part of a multi-year transportation package. (Transportation Budget – $125,000,000) thurstonchamber.com
