Snoqualmie mayor advocates for urgent Highway 18 safety improvements amid budget delays

In a pivotal government meeting held on March 25, 2025, the House Transportation Committee in Washington faced pressing concerns regarding the future of critical transportation projects. As community leaders and advocates gathered to voice their opinions, the atmosphere was charged with urgency, reflecting the stakes involved in the proposed budget allocations.

One of the most significant discussions centered around the Bradley Road pedestrian improvement project, which aims to enhance safety for students near a local high school. A representative expressed deep concern that the budget would delay funding for this project until 2031, jeopardizing its timely completion during the summer break. The project, initially funded through the 2022 Move Ahead Washington package, is already under contract, and any further delays could disrupt the carefully planned timeline.

Mayor Catherine Ross of Snoqualmie highlighted the dire need for safety improvements along Highway 18, which has seen a troubling rise in fatal accidents. With a staggering 600% increase in fatalities in the project area over the past five years, Ross emphasized that delaying funding for these improvements is not merely an inconvenience but a matter of life and death. The proposed upgrades would include a divided barrier to prevent head-on collisions and enhance visibility, making the highway safer for all users.

City Manager Regan Boley echoed these sentiments, stressing that Highway 18 is a vital corridor for commuters and emergency responders. The outdated infrastructure has led to frequent crashes, and every day the project remains unfunded, lives are at risk. Boley urged the committee to prioritize funding for this essential project, which has already seen a significant increase in incidents.

The meeting also addressed broader transportation issues, including the importance of maintaining funding for regional mobility grants and commute trip reduction programs. Stakeholders from various sectors, including agriculture and transportation management, underscored the economic implications of these cuts. Kelly Coughlin, representing the Snow Valley Regional Chamber, pointed out that delays in funding not only threaten public safety but also disrupt supply chains critical to the state's economy.

As the meeting progressed, the committee heard from numerous advocates who passionately argued for the restoration of funding for various projects. The overarching theme was clear: timely investments in transportation infrastructure are essential for ensuring public safety, supporting economic growth, and maintaining the quality of life for Washington residents.

In conclusion, the discussions at the House Transportation Committee meeting underscored the urgent need for decisive action on transportation funding. With lives and livelihoods hanging in the balance, stakeholders are calling for a commitment to prioritize these critical projects, ensuring that Washington's transportation system can meet the demands of its communities now and in the future.