Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 4, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke announces millions for rural transportation

OLYMPIA — More than $25 million will be invested in transportation projects that promote rural economic development, Gov. Gary Locke announced today.

The money will go to 16 Rural Economic Vitality projects across the state, Locke said.

"Rural economic development is one of my highest priorities, so road, bridge, bus, ferry and other transportation improvements are critical. Moving goods and people in a timely way is key to growing these areas of the state," Locke said.

The Rural Economic Vitality (REV) program was developed last June as part of Locke's Economic Vitality Initiative.

The 16 projects receiving the $25 million in federal funds were selected by the Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB), Washington Department of Transportation and Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development.

To date, the group has invested $59.3 million in federal money in rural transportation projects. In March, the group will review remaining REV applications to determine which will be funded.

"Speaking on behalf of CERB, the program has been pleased to play an active role in the creation of the REV program — a unique opportunity for rural Washington to meet the need for transportation improvements linked to economic development outcomes," said Judith Boekholder, CERB chair. Boekholder represents cities on the CERB and is a member of the Toppenish City Council.

Sid Morrison, secretary for the Department of Transportation, said transportation is a vital lifeline for rural communities.

"Washington's economy depends on a transportation that can quickly carry people, and deliver goods, to markets and ports. These grants will benefit people on both ends of that system," Morrison said.

Martha Choe, CTED director, said, "The importance of transportation to our rural communities can't be understated. Opportunities for economic growth depend on ready access to jobs and markets. The REV program helps rural Washington gain that access."

The goal of Locke's REV program is to provide rapid support for emerging economic opportunities in rural counties and state-designated Community Empowerment Zones (CEZs). A rural county is defined as having fewer than 100 persons per square mile. State CEZs exist in Yakima, Bremerton, Tacoma, Seattle and White Center (an unincorporated area of King County).

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