September 19, 2019 - by Matt Jack, BDA Policy Manager
Category: What's Happening
BDA Opposes I-976, Citing Threat to State and Regional Transportation Revenue
The Bellevue Downtown Association (BDA) officially opposes the Washington Initiative 976 ballot measure. After reviewing arguments from both campaigns, the BDA Board of Directors voted to oppose the initiative citing its devastating threat to state and regional transportation revenue.
If the initiative passes, the Washington State Office of Financial Management projects billions in funding would be eliminated from transportation projects and programs critical to supporting Bellevue’s growth. Projects that would be impacted include light rail expansion, I-405 widening, I-405 bus rapid transit, transportation demand management programs, and transit services.
The BDA joins a growing coalition of employers, business and trade organizations opposing the initiative, noting transportation projects are badly needed to relieve congestion, improve transit reliability, and support access for Bellevue employees, residents and visitors.
Improving mobility is a key initiative for the association. The BDA’s Downtown Access Strategy lists the following mobility goals for Downtown Bellevue.
The BDA strongly encourages a no vote on I-976. Visit the campaign website: No on Tim Eyman’s I-976.