Board reviews 36 freight project applications and discusses priority, deliverability and equity

Board staff reported on the 2026 project solicitation: 36 applications requested roughly $212 million and staff ranked projects into priority categories (high, medium, low) under a 35‑point rubric. Staff said six applications were ineligible because they were not directly connected to strategic freight corridors but that staff nonetheless reviewed them for potential viability.

Staff outlined examples from across the state: Spokane‑area bridge/rail projects flagged for environmental and constructability review; a proposed roundabout on a US‑route in Airway Heights that merits further study to verify freight benefits versus residential impacts; Union Gap phase applications with sizeable funding gaps and pending grant matches; and a small rural arterial paving request that is easy to deliver but raised questions about appropriate program fit. Board members emphasized the need for early railroad engagement on grade‑separation proposals and suggested targeted letters of support and local coordination to improve deliverability.

Staff said eight 2024 projects remain earmarked for future funding windows and described funding gap cases where local or federal match might be required. The board did not take a final award vote at this meeting; staff will continue technical validation, coordinate with project managers and return with recommendations for board action.