Senate capital budget would benefit Lake Stevens, Snohomish County

OLYMPIA – The Senate’s proposed 2007–09 operating, capital and transportation budgets, released earlier this week, include money for a new civic center for Lake Stevens and a new wastewater treatment facility for the city of Snohomish.

“It is the role of our state government to provide the services and resources demanded by its citizens,” said Sen. Steve Hobbs, D-Lake Stevens. “These budgets address critical needs in our community.”

The operating budget totals approximately $33 billion, leaving an ending fund balance of $766 million. A state constitutional rainy day account, which would need to be enacted by voters, would set aside $158.7 million of that amount.

The capital budget, intended for construction and improvement projects, includes $6.7 million for construction in the 44th District. Projects currently in the Senate’s budget are:

• $4.9 million for the construction of a wastewater treatment facility and sewer overflow improvements
• $800,000 for a new, expanded Lake Stevens Civic Center and $200,000 for a senior center
• $800,000 for the YMCA of Snohomish County, Southeast

The transportation budget includes more than $221 million in 44th District road improvements, including:

• $46 million to add HOV lanes from Interstate 5/State Route 526 to Marine View Drive
• $38 million to add lanes and improve interchanges from SR 9/SR 96 to Marsh Road
• $32 million to add lanes and improve intersections from SR 9/Lundeen Parkway to SR 92
• $7 million for HOV and interchange modifications from I-5/164th St. S.W. to SR 526

The Senate’s proposed 2007–09 operating, capital and transportation budgets must still be passed by the Senate and then reconciled with House proposals before going to the governor for signature.

“There will still be some tough negotiating ahead of us,” Hobbs said. “But I’m optimistic that these projects will remain on the table.”

The Legislature is scheduled to adjourn on April 22.

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