Kirkland senator requests study of ‘adverse impacts’ of I-405 toll lanes

The I-405 express toll lanes have caused enough frustration from Kirkland drivers that Sen. Rosemary McAuliffe is now taking steps to mitigate the alleged problems.

McAuliffe introduced a bill that would require the Joint Transportation Committee to “conduct a study on the implementation of the Interstate 405 express toll lanes.”

Related: State admits I-405 toll lanes have worsened north end traffic

The legislation is a result of hearing from “thousands” of constituents, who are frustrated over pricing, congestion, and “inefficiencies,” she told the Kirkland Reporter.

If approved, the bill would require a stakeholder group to be formed to provide input and conduct a review of a study of the corridor and the drivers using it.

The study would consider the possibility of eliminating the requirement to use a flex pass when driving in the toll lanes, including an analysis of alternative methods of tracking vehicles and collecting fees. The legislation would also require a survey of drivers, including socioeconomic status, trip purpose, and mode of transportation.

The Joint Transportation Committee would have a deadline of Nov. 1, 2016.

The legislation was introduced at a time when the state struggles to find answers to the troubled toll lanes. In February, Gov. Jay Inslee announced several adjustments to the toll lanes, and potential projects in the future, including expanding the roadway enough to allow shoulder driving during peak times.

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