35th District lawmakers secure tens of millions for communities in trio of supplemental budgets

March 13, 2024 GNCadm1n NW Representation Comments Off on 35th District lawmakers secure tens of millions for communities in trio of supplemental budgets

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CONTACT: Hanna Scott, Public Information Officer | 360-968-3938

35th District lawmakers secure tens of millions for communities in trio of supplemental budgets

Just before adjourning last week, the state Legislature passed the supplemental operating, capital, and transportation budgets. The $72 billion operating budget is the largest yet, increasing overall spending by $2.2 billion over the next two years. But for the first time in several years, it does not include any new taxes – a significant victory for Republicans in both chambers with multiple proposals from the majority that would have raised existing taxes or implemented new ones.

The $1.33 billion capital budget invests heavily in K-12 education school construction, housing, and mental health facilities, among other areas. Sen. Drew MacEwen, R-Shelton, Rep. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn, and Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn worked collaboratively to secure over $16 million of those dollars for capital projects in the 35th District.

“The millions we were able to get in this capital budget will make a significant difference in our community, “ said MacEwen. “I am proud to be a member of this 35th District team and what we have been able to accomplish together.”

“These investments will bring real change that will go a long way for our kids, our families, and those most vulnerable in our community,” said Griffey. “I am grateful to my seatmates for this team effort.”  

“This money will help with  school modernization, food security, economic development, infrastructure, recreation, and so much more,” said Couture. “I am happy to be on a  team committed to investing in rural communities.”

35th District Capital Project Highlights include:

  • $38,000 for the Chamber of Commerce Historical Archive Project (Grand Mound).
  • $412,000 for the Crosby Community Center Restoration Project (Seabeck).
  • $52,000 for the Goldsborough Switching Station Project (Shelton).
  • $47,000 for the North Mason Food Bank Relocation Project (Belfair).
  • $41,000 for Public Dock Emergency Repair (Hoodsport).
  • $206,000 for the Shelton Multi-Use Trail Project (Shelton).
  • $90,000 for the Matlock Grange Safety & Structure Improvements Project (MatlocK).
  • $800,000 for the Mason PUD No. 1 Lilliwaup Corner Project (Lilliwaup).
  • Over $5 ,000,000 for school modernization, including planning grants and other funding for the Griffin, Pioneer, and Southside districts.

Lawmakers in the 35th District also secured $60 million in the supplemental transportation budget, including $25 million to begin land acquisitions for the Highway 3 Freight Corridor (Belfair Bypass) Project. Those purchases are expected to begin in 2024.

Additional 35th District Transportation Budget Highlights:

  • $1.65 million for Wallace Kneeland Intersection Improvements in Shelton.
  • $2 million for US101/SR3 Jersey Barriers to Improve Safety.
  • $10 million to Develop a New Mason Transit Park and Ride and Improve an Existing Park and Ride.
  • Funding for an additional lane in both directions of SR 3 from Gorst to SR 304, Elevate the Roadway and Gorst, Replace the Navy’s Railroad Crossing, and Complete Associated Fish Passage Work in Gorst.

“To all of the 35th District residents who reach out to us about the challenge of commuting on our roadways – we hear you,” said MacEwen. “There will be more to come.”

“This funding will improve the safety on our roadways in the 35th District,” said Griffey, a member of the House Transportation Committee. “And with the land acquisition funding for the Highway 3 Freight Corridor Project now in place we can finally see our path forward to completing this vital project to improve safety and ease congestion in North Mason County.”

“These projects are critical for increased safety, reduced traffic congestion, and freight mobility,” said Couture. “Our constituents have waited a long time for these critical projects, and I am proud to be part of a delegation that delivers for the 35th District.”

More Information

  • View the $72 billion 2024 Supplemental Operation Budget here.
  • View the $14.6 billion 2024 Supplemental Transportation Package here.
  • Learn more about the 2024 Supplemental Capital Construction Budget here.

###Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov