Commission begins public input on proposed low‑income toll discount for new expressways

The Washington State Transportation Commission opened a public comment period on a proposed low‑income toll discount designed to reduce costs for qualifying households on two new expressways, officials said at the Kalama meeting.

Under the proposal the commission advanced in May, qualifying drivers would receive a 50% discount on posted tolls for two‑axle vehicles on SR 509 and SR 167. Eligibility would be based on household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL); enrollment would be administered by the Washington State Department of Transportation using existing program documentation such as benefit enrollment verification and vehicle registration.

“WSDOT will rely on documentation provided by customers from other agencies that have already verified household income is no more than 200% of the FPL,” staff explained during the briefing. Approved enrollments would be valid for 12 months and could be renewed with supporting documentation.

Jason Richter, deputy state treasurer, presented the financial analysis modeling two scenarios: a base case and a base case that includes the low‑income discount. "The difference between the two scenarios is in the 6 to 7% range," Richter said, estimating the discount would reduce net toll revenues by roughly 6–8% in out years once the network is fully open.

Richter and commission staff noted the program is financially feasible under the modeled assumptions but flagged near‑term sensitivity: revenues and funding of start‑up accounts (working capital, a repair-and‑replacement reserve and a self‑insurance account) are tight in the early years, and continued monitoring is needed. The state modeled a self‑insurance capitalization target in the low‑single‑digit millions as part of the flow of funds.

The commission scheduled multiple chances for public input: an online open house (June 22–July 10), a virtual hearing on July 7 at 6:30 p.m., and the commission’s July meeting (July 21) where final action could be considered. Staff said WSDOT will begin outreach and enrollment in the fall if the commission adopts the policy.

Commissioners emphasized that the design balances affordability objectives with long‑term revenue sufficiency and said rate adjustments remain an option if actual toll receipts fall short of projections.