← Back to feedIn a landmark decision on June 12, 2026, the King County Transportation District (KCTD) Board of Supervisors approved a pivotal funding package aimed at revitalizing the county's deteriorating road and bridge infrastructure. The legislation introduces a new 0.1% sales tax, projected to generate approximately $100 million annually, with 87.5% allocated specifically for maintenance and improvements in unincorporated areas.
The KCTD's 5-4 vote underscores the urgency of addressing the longstanding underinvestment in King County's road network. Councilmember Claudia Balducci, Chair of the KCTD Board, emphasized the regional significance of the initiative, stating, "King County's road network is part of a vital regional system for businesses, recreation, and mobility, and it has been crumbling under decades of underinvestment."
The allocated funds will prioritize essential projects, including basic maintenance, safety enhancements in high-need areas, bridge replacements, climate resiliency efforts, and multimodal improvements on key corridors like East Marginal Way and Rainier Avenue. Additionally, the plan aims to implement the King County traffic safety action plan and improve disability access.
The remaining 12.5% of the funding is designated for eligible cities and towns within King County that choose to participate in receiving funds for road-related purposes. Notably, the Board of Supervisors voted to remove a cap that would have limited the amount of funding Seattle could receive, with Councilmember Balducci casting the decisive vote.
This funding package addresses a critical need in unincorporated areas, where the road system has been in decline due to a shrinking tax base following the 1990 Washington State Growth Management Act. The Roads Services Division maintains approximately 1,500 miles of roads and 188 bridges in these regions, many of which are in dire need of repair. The new sales tax is set to begin collection on January 1, 2027, with revenues becoming available in spring 2027.
This decisive action by the KCTD Board marks a significant step toward revitalizing King County's infrastructure, aiming to enhance safety, mobility, and economic vitality for residents and businesses alike.ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.