OLYMPIA — As the new administration and Congress consider making major investments in the nation’s infrastructure, a coalition of Washington State organizations representing cities, counties, ports and private-sector businesses is making the case that Washington is a wise choice.
Washington State moves more than $70 billion worth of goods through its ports and contributes well over $300 billion annually to the U.S. economy, making the state’s infrastructure vital to the national interest, and yet Washington’s total infrastructure needs are estimated at more than $190 billion, according to a report released today.
The report, “Building the Economy: Infrastructure Needs in Washington,” highlights both the needs facing the state’s infrastructure, as well as the benefits to the economy that would come from making smart investments in roads, bridges, ports, energy, and other areas.
The Association of Washington Business (AWB), the Association of Washington Cities (AWC), the Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC), and the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) commissioned the report.
The report uses existing data on needs and illustrative projects from throughout the state to highlight investment opportunities in the critical areas of transportation, water, energy, and communications.
“We are anticipating a renewed commitment to infrastructure and this report lays the groundwork to position our state to take advantage of opportunities that arise,” said AWB President Kris Johnson. “This is an unprecedented partnership between our four organizations and it occurred because we recognize what’s at stake. Investing in Washington’s infrastructure will provide jobs and lead to a healthier economy throughout the state.”
The report outlines Washington’s many economic contributions to the nation’s economy, including a contribution of well over $300 billion. For example, the state is home to 10 Fortune 500 companies, moves more than $70 billion worth of goods through its ports each year, and is home to more than 7,000 small businesses.
Underpinning the state’s growth and success is a vast and interconnected infrastructure system – and that is where Washington’s 281 cities and towns, 39 counties, and 75 port districts come into the picture.
The report explains that ports depend on well-maintained highways, railroads, and shipping channels. Cities and counties need upgraded water and wastewater infrastructure and transportation networks to serve existing and future residents and businesses.
“The infrastructure needs in our state are great, and we need long-term and continuous investment to maintain our economy and prepare for natural disasters,” said AWC Chief Executive Officer Peter B. King.
The associations estimate Washington State’s total infrastructure needs to be over $190 billion. Likewise, this level of investment is estimated to create 600,000 to 660,000 direct and indirect jobs.
“One-time investment packages are great and help meet the most immediate needs, but sustained investment and managing the public assets with a long-term view is critical,” continued King.
He explained that underinvestment in infrastructure leads to increased costs, reduced income, reduced economic output, and firms looking for other places to do business.
“The fact is, people are moving to Washington State and we are poised for that growth,” said Eric Johnson, WSAC Executive Director. By 2040, an additional 2 million residents are expected to move to Washington.
“Local agencies and the private sector have a long history of working together to prioritize infrastructure needs,” said Eric D. Johnson, WPPA Executive Director. “Washington State is ready for this investment.”
Building the Economy: Infrastructure Needs in Washington (two-page summary)
Building the Economy: Infrastructure Needs in Washington (full report)
Contact:
Alicia Seegers Martinelli, Association of Washington Cities, AliciaM@awcnet.org, 360.753.4137
Jason Hagey, Association of Washington Business, JasonH@awb.org, 360.943.1600
Derek Anderson, Washington State Association of Counties, danderson@wsac.org, 360.489.3020
Eric D. Johnson, Washington Public Ports Association, ericj@washingtonports.org, 360.943.0760
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