Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 25, 2002
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke uses Clark County interchange to tout transportation plan and WSDOT efficiencies

CAMAS – Gov. Gary Locke today used the state’s newest highway interchange project to push for passage of his 10-year, $8.5 billion transportation plan, promising it will bring an additional $170 million in highway and bridge improvements to Clark County.

Standing in the cold at what will be the 192nd Avenue Interchange, Locke called the construction of an interchange in the midst of a rock quarry an “awe-inspiring, amazing feat” that will come in on time and under budget.

“Too often, we take for granted the difficult tasks and the hard work that the DOT (Washington State Department of Transportation) and transportation contractors face every day,” said the governor. “This was a team effort and I look forward to driving on it when it opens this fall.”

Locke was in the Vancouver area today for a meeting with executives of the Clark County High Tech Community Council and a briefing on the road construction project. He connected the two appearances, saying the phenomenal growth in high tech jobs and an increase in population of 107,000 in the past 10 years have put huge pressure on an inadequate transportation system.

“Traffic congestion is worse than just a headache,” the governor told the gathering of local business leaders, government officials and contractors. “It burdens not just commuters, but shippers, merchants and manufacturers. Our state must compete every day to keep jobs here, attract new jobs and keep trade – one of the largest components of our economy – flowing smoothly.”

Locke called for legislative action on his omnibus transportation reform bill and his $8.5 million transportation construction package.

“This interchange is one of a handful of major transportation projects needed in Clark County,” the governor said. “A few we’ve been able to fund. But if additional transportation funding isn’t authorized, transportation improvements will come to a grinding halt.”

“We must invest in our transportation system – not only here in Southwest Washington – but throughout the state,” Locke concluded. “A healthy economy depends on a transportation system that works – one that moves people and goods safely and efficiently.”

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Related Links:
- Washington State Department of Transportation
- Washington State Legislature
- Clark County

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