Now that election season is over, I’m once again able to provide updates on what’s going on in your state government. The 2019 legislative session is approaching. I need your feedback on important transportation issues in the Enumclaw-Buckley area.

In the 2017 session, I was able to get the study we needed to improve traffic flow along the entire 410 corridor. My main concern was the White River Bridge and the problem of traffic detours if the bridge gets damaged. My solution is to add a new two-lane bridge (without the trestle structure) next to the existing bridge to improve traffic flow and which can be used in case the trestle bridge becomes damaged.

With the study being completed, I want to get your input on the proposed WSDOT solutions and what you would like me to pursue next session.

The state Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has been holding some meetings throughout the community, but it seems the meetings are at times of day that preclude people from attending. That’s why I’m organizing a town-hall meeting Monday, Dec. 10, from 7-8:30 p.m. along with my House seatmates. The meeting will include a WSDOT briefing on transportation plans in the area; I hope you can attend so your voice can be heard.

Spiketon Bridge replacement moved from 2022 to 2019.

Thanks to lots of community support and our proactive 31st District legislative team, we were able to get the bridge replacement moved up to next spring. Your involvement and activism are invaluable. With your support, we as legislators are able to make a stronger case for issues that affect our districts, so keep it up!

I will be working on some innovative proposals this coming session to address our state’s infrastructure. At the same time I’ll be pushing back on attempts to just raise more taxes. I believe we can fund critical transportation projects to get people and goods where they need to go without making you pay more.

If you live in the Buckley, Enumclaw, Wilkeson and Carbonado areas, please tell your friends about the meeting; the more people who show up, the better I can serve as their voice in Olympia.

When: Monday, Dec. 10, 7-8:30 p.m.

Where: Enumclaw Fire Station, 1330 Wells Street, Enumclaw