Contributed by Reema Griffith

Transportation Commission Executive Director

The Washington State Transportation Commission is conducting a major statewide transportation survey to find out what citizens think about our state’s transportation system and how future needs should be paid for. The findings of the survey will be delivered to the Governor and Legislature in the coming weeks, as officials work to identify ways to fund growing transportation needs across the state.

The survey will be completed by mid-October. The results will be scientifically valid at both the statewide level and the regional level, as defined by the boundaries of the 14 Regional and Metropolitan Transportation Planning Organizations across the state. This will give the state data about the unique opinions and preferences in each region, thus allowing for targeted transportation investments that best meet varying needs statewide.

In the first phase of this effort, 100,000 postcards were mailed out to randomly selected residences across the state inviting them to take the survey. The commission encourages those who received a postcard to take the survey as soon as possible.

The second phase of the study is now underway and will ensure that all residents have an opportunity to participate and have their voice heard. To take the survey go to: www.voiceofwashingtonsurvey.org

EMC Research of Seattle is conducting the survey for the commission. The purpose of the survey is to gather Washington State citizens’ preferences and opinions about the transportation system, their priorities for today and the future, and their thoughts about transportation funding. When referring to the “transportation system” all forms of transportation are included at all levels of government. Respondents to the survey are asked to think about city, county and state roads and bridges, along with sidewalks, bike paths, transit and aviation.

For more information on the survey or the Washington State Transportation Commission, please visit: www.wstc.wa.gov