The state route number 520 bridge replacement and HOV project finance plan must include state funding, federal funding, at least one billion dollars in regional contributions, and revenue from tolling. The department must provide a proposed finance plan to be tied to the estimated cost of the recommended project solutions, as provided under *RCW 47.01.406, to the governor and the joint transportation committee by January 1, 2008.

*Reviser's note: RCW 47.01.406 was repealed by 2017 3rd sp.s. c 25 s 39.

Finding—2007 c 517: "The legislature finds that the replacement of the vulnerable state route number 520 corridor is a matter of urgency for the safety of Washington's traveling public and the needs of the transportation system in central Puget Sound. The state route number 520 floating bridge is susceptible to damage, closure, or even catastrophic failure from earthquakes, windstorms, and waves. Additionally, the bridge serves as a vital route for vehicles to cross Lake Washington, carrying over three times its design capacity in traffic, resulting in more than seven hours of congestion per day.

Therefore, it is the conclusion of the legislature that time is of the essence, and that Washington state cannot wait for a disaster to make it fully appreciate the urgency of the need to replace this vulnerable structure. The state must take the necessary steps to move forward with a state route number 520 bridge replacement project design that provides six total lanes, with four general purpose lanes and two lanes that are for high occupancy vehicle travel that could also accommodate high capacity transportation, and the bridge shall also be designed to accommodate light rail in the future. High occupancy vehicle lanes in the state route 520 corridor must also be able to support a bus rapid transit system." [ 2007 c 517 s 1.]

Effective date—2007 c 517: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 15, 2007]." [ 2007 c 517 s 9.]