Tag Archives: Senate Transportation Committee

Hawkins comments on Senate passage of “Move Ahead Washington” transportation proposal

The Legislature’s “Move Ahead Washington” proposal, unveiled just a week ago on Feb. 8, continues to be on a fast track, receiving full Senate approval tonight after being approved by the Senate Transportation Committee on Monday. Senate Bill 5974 was approved by the full Senate by a vote of 29 to 20.

Sen. Brad Hawkins voted against the package in committee and in the full Senate but has been actively involved in discussions with Sen. Marko Liias and Sen. Curtis King, leaders of the Senate Transportation Committee, to include Wenatchee Valley projects in the proposal.

“I offered two amendments tonight because the ‘Move Ahead Washington’ transportation proposal developed by House and Senate Democratic leaders is not yet a ‘statewide’ investment package as it leaves a gigantic donut hole in the center of the state,” said Hawkins. “My Senate Transportation Committee colleagues may be familiar with the Wenatchee Valley projects, but I needed to get these before the full Senate, even if acceptance of the projects at this time was not likely.”

Both floor amendments were defeated. To view Hawkins’ two floor amendments, go here and here.

For more information about Wenatchee Valley transportation projects, click here.

For an aerial image of Wenatchee showing the Confluence Parkway bridge location, click here.

While no additional projects were included in tonight’s advancement through the Senate, Hawkins remains encouraged about the possibility of the signature project, known as Confluence Parkway.

“I continue to be optimistic of the possibilities for Confluence Parkway’s $85 million of funding this session,” said Hawkins. “Many thanks to Wenatchee Mayor Frank Kuntz, Richard DeRock of LINK Transit, Jeff Wilkens of the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council, and Congresswoman Kim Schrier, who all worked closely with me over the past several days and weeks to make major progress toward advancing this project. My discussions with Chair Liias over the past several days have been encouraging, which suggests to me that this project is something on his radar for the remaining days of the session.”

The $134 million Confluence Parkway project would help mitigate the growing traffic challenges in north Wenatchee near the Wenatchee River. Funding includes $49 million from a recent federal grant, leaving $85 million needed to complete construction. The project includes a new roadway and new bridge connecting to the U.S. 2/97 interchange and offers benefits for LINK Transit, as well as trail and pedestrian modifications. Kuntz, DeRock, and Wilkens highlighted the project in a Feb. 3 PowerPoint presentation to Liias, Hawkins, and others – click here.

Senate Bill 5974 now advances to the House Transportation Committee where it is expected to promptly receive a public hearing.

What Supporters Are Saying

“Completing the Confluence Parkway project is vital to the future of the Wenatchee Valley. These are improvements that will have real, positive impacts on people’s daily lives. I went to bat to help secure $49 million from the federal government for the project. Now it is time for the state to do its part. I will continue to work with Sen. Hawkins to convey to his colleagues the critical importance of the Confluence Parkway project.”

Congresswoman Kim Schrier, 8th Congressional District

“Although tonight’s vote was not successful, I would like to thank Senator Hawkins for his work on behalf of the region. The city is committed to continuing dialogue with Senator Liias and Representative Fey to identify funding to complete Confluence Parkway.”

Mayor Frank Kuntz, City of Wenatchee

“The session isn’t over yet. Securing funds in Olympia for local transportation priorities is always a challenge, but I remain optimistic Senator Hawkins’ efforts can get us there.”

Jeff Wilkens, Executive Director of the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council

Hawkins Audio Clips

Hawkins’ audio clips on Move Ahead Washington:

 

Hawkins gathers Senate transportation leaders for Confluence Parkway discussion

City of Wenatchee’s Mayor Frank Kuntz, LINK Transit’s Richard DeRock, and Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council’s Jeff Wilkens emphasize the importance of a second bridge across the Wenatchee River.

As transportation leaders in the Legislature move closer to releasing their transportation budget proposal during this year’s legislative session, 12th District Sen. Brad Hawkins today brought key leaders of the Senate Transportation Committee, their staff, and local officials together for an important discussion about the Confluence Parkway project in Wenatchee.

In addition to the expected supplemental budget proposal for this session, some lawmakers are discussing the possibility of also unveiling a new, additional set of transportation improvement projects. Hawkins, a member of the Senate’s Transportation Committee, wants the Confluence Parkway project to be in the mix.

“Legislators are getting closer and closer to developing the next statewide transportation investment package, so we need to communicate how important the Confluence Parkway is to our community’s future,” said Hawkins.

The meeting, held via Zoom, included Hawkins; new Senate Transportation Committee Chair Marko Liias, D-Everett; Sen. Curtis King, R-Yakima and Republican leader on the Senate Transportation Committee; Wenatchee Mayor Frank Kuntz; Laura Merrill, executive services director for the city of Wenatchee; Jeff Wilkens, executive director of the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council; Richard DeRock, general manager of LINK Transit; Kelly Simpson, senior staff coordinator and counsel for the Senate Transportation Committee; Jenna Forty, staff analyst for the Senate Transportation Committee; Hannah McCarty, senior transportation policy counsel to the Senate Democratic Caucus; and Martin Presley, transportation policy counsel for the Senate Republican Caucus.

“I’m grateful for the extended conversation today and for the many people who participated,” said Hawkins. “The timing was strategic in that discussions will likely take place in the coming weeks or months about identifying needed transportation projects in Washington. I want Senator Liias, the new chair of the Transportation Committee, to know how important this is to our valley.”

Liias assumed the role of Senate Transportation Committee chair following former Sen. Steve Hobbs’ appointment as Washington’s secretary of state.

The $134 million Confluence Parkway project would help mitigate the growing traffic challenges in north Wenatchee near the Wenatchee River. Funding includes $49 million from a recent federal grant, leaving $85 million needed to complete construction. The project includes a new roadway and new bridge connecting to the U.S. 2/97 interchange. Kuntz, DeRock and Wilkens highlighted the project in a PowerPoint presentation – click here.

 

Hawkins proposes Highway 2 traffic flow and safety bill

In an effort to improve traffic flow and safety along U.S. Highway 2 between Wenatchee and Monroe, 12th District Sen. Brad Hawkins has introduced a measure to identify improvements for preservation, maintenance, and new projects for the curvy and congested highway.

Hawkins, a member of the Senate’s Transportation Committee, has proposed the bill with his colleague, Sen. Keith Wagoner of the 39th District. The two senators serve neighboring legislative districts now but are expected to share communities along Highway 2 in the coming year following the completion of the state’s redistricting process.

“Communities along the corridor have expressed growing concerns about safety and traffic flow,” Hawkins said. “Everyone knows Highway 2 is dangerous and congested, so let’s hear from the communities, assemble the information we have, and identify needed improvements.”

Hawkins’ proposal, Senate Bill 5603, calls for the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to conduct public outreach with communities along the highway, including public meetings involving Wenatchee, Cashmere, Leavenworth, Skykomish, Index, Gold Bar, Sultan, and Monroe. The bill also calls for WSDOT to report to the Legislature by Dec. 1, 2022, with a summary of existing analysis along the corridor and recommended investments.

The timing of WSDOT’s report to the Legislature’s transportation committees is critical, Hawkins says, because he believes the Legislature will consider the next large-scale transportation package one year from now during the 2023 session.

For Hawkins, projects like Wenatchee’s Confluence Parkway – the proposed second bridge across the Wenatchee River – will continue to be a high priority while also supporting the needs of other communities, like those along Highway 2 and other areas in his district. Hawkins said he is thankful that the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council completed a US 2 Upper Wenatchee Valley corridor study in April 2020 for a portion of the highway, identifying potential improvements near Leavenworth.

Hawkins has prefiled the bill for consideration in the 2022 legislative session, which starts Jan. 10.

Transportation Committee passes Hawkins bill to promote hydrogen-powered vehicles

Sen. Brad Hawkins’ bill to promote hydrogen-powered vehicles has taken a step closer to a full Senate vote this session.

The Senate Transportation Committee on Thursday unanimously approved Senate Bill 5000, which would establish an eight-year statewide pilot project for the reduction of sales tax on purchases of fuel-cell electric vehicles. The proposal includes a committee amendment offered by Hawkins that would direct the Washington State Department of Transportation to study how public fleets could use hydrogen fuel-cell technology. The bill was passed earlier by the Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee on Jan. 21.

“I’m very grateful that the bill was approved today in its fiscal committee and that it has received so much support,” said Hawkins. “Our state is really in its infancy regarding electric vehicles, so I think it’s helpful to promote multiple types of zero-emission vehicles, both battery electrics and fuel-cell electrics. This is a great step forward for the bill and the broader discussion it has generated about renewable hydrogen’s use in Washington.”

Senate Bill 5000, which has bipartisan support and nearly 30 co-sponsors, now goes to the Senate Ways and Means Committee for further consideration.

Back in 2019, the Legislature approved Hawkins-sponsored Senate Bill 5588, which authorizes public utility districts to produce and sell “renewable hydrogen.”

“The people of North Central Washington have been leaders in clean energy for decades and now we’re in a position to lead the United States on renewable hydrogen use in transportation, including production, distribution, vehicles, transit buses, short haul agriculture, and long haul opportunities. It’s pretty exciting when you think about it, especially knowing my region’s long and proud history of clean energy,” said Hawkins.

Hydrogen can be created from a process that separates the hydrogen and oxygen molecules in water. The Douglas County Public Utility District in Hawkins’ district plans to utilize its surplus hydropower to do just that, creating renewable hydrogen from excess renewable hydropower and possibly also building hydrogen fueling stations.

SB 5000 aims to extend a similar exemption on vehicle sales tax that purchasers of traditional electric vehicles receive. With the first hydrogen-fueling stations in Washington expected to be operational by 2022, the bill would allow a total of 650 vehicles to receive a 50-percent sales tax exemption in fiscal years 2023 through 2029.

Even though hydrogen vehicles are newer to the market and slightly more expensive due to having not been in mass production nationwide, they have shown tremendous promise given how quickly they refuel and the limited infrastructure required to get the fuel to the station.

Hawkins said his bill would help establish important parity between fuel-cell electric vehicles and traditional plug-in electrics.

“In our efforts to promote carbon-free vehicles, our state policies should be ‘technologically neutral’ so that we can give ourselves varied opportunities to reduce emissions and not unintentionally bias ourselves in the process,” Hawkins said. “Similar to diesel and gas, maybe there will always be multiple fuel sources for next-generation cars or maybe someday hydrogen vehicles will be the preferred choice.”

More Info: Renewable hydrogen could play a key role in Washington’s clean-energy future (Sen. Hawkins, Seattle Times, 12/15/20).

 

Committee passes Hawkins bill to promote hydrogen-powered vehicles

Sen. Brad Hawkins’ proposal to promote hydrogen-powered vehicles, the first Senate bill of the 2021 legislative session, is now also among the first measures to be approved by a Senate committee.

The Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee on Thursday approved Senate Bill 5000, which would establish an eight-year statewide pilot project for the reduction of sales tax on purchases of fuel-cell electric vehicles.

“I’m pleased that the committee passed this bill so early,” said Hawkins, who serves the 12th Legislative District. “The bill received a positive response during its public hearing, and I’m hopeful it will continue moving forward this session. The bill is off to a terrific start but still has a ways to go in the weeks ahead.”

Senate Bill 5000, which has bipartisan support and nearly 30 co-sponsors, has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for further consideration.

Back in 2019, the Legislature approved Hawkins-sponsored Senate Bill 5588, which authorizes public utility districts to produce and sell “renewable hydrogen.”

“The people of North Central Washington have been leaders in clean energy for decades and new state efforts to promote renewable hydrogen and zero-emissions vehicles will help us continue our innovative work,” said Hawkins. He added, “North Central Washington is in a real position to lead the state and perhaps the entire United States on renewable hydrogen use in transportation, from production, distribution, vehicles, buses, short haul agriculture, and other opportunities locally. It’s pretty exciting when you think big about it. Our region has a long and proud history of thinking big about clean energy.”

Hydrogen can be created from a process that separates the hydrogen and oxygen molecules in water. The Douglas County Public Utility District in Hawkins’ district plans to utilize its surplus hydropower to do just that, creating renewable hydrogen from excess renewable hydropower and possibly also building hydrogen fueling stations.

SB 5000 aims to extend a similar exemption on vehicle sales tax that purchasers of traditional electric vehicles receive. With the first hydrogen-fueling stations in Washington expected to be operational by 2022, the bill would allow a total of 650 vehicles to receive a 50-percent sales tax exemption in fiscal years 2023 through 2029.

Even though hydrogen vehicles are newer to the market and slightly more expensive due to having not been in mass production nationwide, they have shown tremendous promise given how quickly they refuel and the limited infrastructure required to get the fuel to the station.

Hawkins said his bill would help establish important parity between fuel-cell electric vehicles and traditional plug-in electrics.

“In our efforts to promote carbon-free vehicles, our state policies should be ‘technologically neutral’ so that we can give ourselves varied opportunities to reduce emissions and not unintentionally bias ourselves in the process,” Hawkins said. “Similar to diesel and gas, maybe there will always be multiple fuel sources for next-generation cars or maybe someday hydrogen vehicles will be the preferred choice.”

What the bill’s supporters are saying:

“We are thankful for Senator Hawkins’ leadership for renewable hydrogen. His support has created an opportunity for us to increase efficiencies at our Wells Hydroelectric Project and increase value for our customers.” – Molly Simpson, Douglas County PUD Commission President

 “The Renewable Hydrogen Alliance is proud to support the expansion of clean vehicle incentives to fuel cell electric cars just as Washington begins creating clean hydrogen from the state’s ample supply of renewable electricity.” – Ken Dragoon, Executive Director of the Renewable Hydrogen Alliance

“Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will be critical to the future of a decarbonized transportation sector. This bill is a meaningful step to ensuring the state incentivizes a portfolio approach to electrifying Washington’s transportation sector. WSHA could not be more pleased to support Senator Hawkins in this effort.” – Roxana Bekemohammadi, Executive Director of the Western States Hydrogen Alliance

“Senator Hawkins’ pilot incentive program is an important first step to help accelerate the adoption of hydrogen, fuel cell and electrification accessibility in Washington state. Paving the way for emissions-free technologies will further generate awareness, interest and acceptance in communities seeking cleaner options.” – Doug Murtha, Group Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Planning at Toyota Motor North America 

“As we work to reduce transportation emissions in Washington state, incentivizing clean energy through an increased use of hydrogen could play a significant role toward accomplishing our climate goals. I look forward to working across the aisle with Senator Hawkins on this policy, and to continue protecting our state’s incredible natural environment.” – Sen. Liz Lovelett, 40th District, D-Anacortes, Lead Co-Sponsor

Here are links to news stories or other helpful information about this bill:

Hawkins to continue as lead Republican on Senate K-12 education committee

Sen. Brad Hawkins will continue serving as ranking Republican on the Senate Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee when the Legislature begins its 2021 session on Jan. 11.

Hawkins has served on the education panel since joining the Senate in 2017. Prior to joining the Legislature in 2013, Hawkins served for 10 years on two local school boards, the North Central Educational Service District Board and the Eastmont School Board. In addition, Hawkins’ wife is a local teacher and they have two sons in public schools.

“I’m looking forward to serving again this session as the Senate’s education committee’s ranking Republican member. Our school system has definitely had its share of challenges lately with the COVID pandemic and I believe the experiences I bring to the table can help shape good state policy,” says Hawkins.

“Senator Hawkins brings helpful experience and leadership to the education committee in his position as its ranking member,” said 41st District Sen. Lisa Wellman, who serves as the committee chair. “With children in school and from a different part of the state, his perspective provides added value. It will be particularly helpful that we have such a solid working relationship as we tackle the challenges of COVID recovery for our students and the economy.”

Hawkins also will return to the Senate State Government and Elections Committee. His new committee assignment will be with the Senate Transportation Committee, which addresses transportation issues impacting Washington and crafts and passes a two-year state transportation budget.

“The Transportation Committee was one that I requested because of my hydrogen vehicles legislation and the unique transportation needs of our region, so I’m glad it worked out,” says Hawkins.

He added, “I’ve always considered myself a strong supporter of clean transportation options, preservation of our roadways, and for construction projects important to the 12th District. The Legislature will likely be developing the next statewide transportation package within the next two years, so I look forward to being at the table to advocate for projects like Confluence Parkway across the Wenatchee River Bridge, a future interchange in Douglas County near the Odabashian Bridge, and repairs to aging bridges in the Methow Valley.”

“I look forward to working with Senator Hawkins on the Transportation Committee next session,” said 14th District Sen. Curtis King, R-Yakima and ranking Republican on the committee. “Our districts have similar transportation needs and I’ve enjoyed working with him in the past on important transportation projects. He is a tenacious advocate for his district’s projects, which I appreciate.”

The 2021 legislative session is scheduled to last 105 days.

(The photo at top shows Sen. Curtis King and Sen. Brad Hawkins sharing a laugh together last legislative session. They will serve together next year on the Senate Transportation Committee. King is the committee’s ranking Republican member and worked closely with Hawkins in 2017 to secure funding for the West Cashmere Bridge.)