This year, the Public Works Board (PWB) marks its 40th year of serving Washington’s local governments, big and small, with vital assistance for their infrastructure projects. Since its founding in 1985, the PWB has awarded more than $3.6 billion in loans and grants to over 2,200 infrastructure projects across the state.

Don't wait to spread the word about the important support cities receive from the Public Works Assistance Account (PWAA) and advocate for ongoing, full funding for the account.

This session, the PWAA is at risk of losing over $100 million to the state’s general fund. We cannot let this happen. Find your legislators in AWC’s legislator directory and incorporate these talking points when communicating with them:

• Share examples of current and/or planned infrastructure projects in need of funding, especially those with implications for public health, safety, affordable housing, or economic growth.
• Express how critical this funding is for cities of all sizes and backgrounds.
  • Cities and towns all over the state are struggling with infrastructure needs.
    • In the latest AWC City Conditions Survey, approximately 75% of cities reported infrastructure funding as a priority
  • This biennium, the PWB supported severely distressed and distressed communities with up to 50% in grant dollars for their infrastructure projects.
  • Statewide needs assessments for water, wastewater, and solid waste systems total more than $31 billion over the next 20 years.
• The PWAA is a reliable source of grants and low-interest loans for locals that keep costs down for residents.
  • Interest rates range between 0.42% - 1.69%.
  • In the past six years, PWAA awards have saved local governments $188 million in interest savings and grants.
  • The account has never had a loan default in 40 years.
  • The PWB awards about 60% of its funding to cities and towns.
• The PWAA is instrumental to promoting economic development.
  • An estimated $40M was generated in sales tax revenue by the construction investments in communities made possible by the $400+ million awarded by the PWB this biennium.
  • Every $1 invested from the account generates an additional $5 in economic activity.
• The account is already subject to more than $160 million in existing diversions. It cannot afford to lose more funding.
  • This biennium, the PWB received requests for $597 million in assistance, representing 195 projects statewide, far exceeding available funding. $415 was awarded to 152 projects, leaving $182 in 36 unfunded projects.
  • Loss of investments now will reduce the loan repayment revenue stream to the account, resulting in compounded reductions over time.

Statewide distribution of PWB-funded projects in FYs 2022-2025

$631 million project awards to 262 local projects

Source: Washington’s Infrastructure System Improvement Team (SYNC) dashboard, 2025

For more information, refer to AWC’s 2025 infrastructure investment fact sheet or the PWB’s fact sheet for your legislative district.

Source: Public Works Board, 2025