State Ferry System Review--Phase 2
This study is an extension of work done by the Joint Transportation Committee during the 2006 interim, implemented by ESHB 2358 (2007), (Final Bill Report).  Issues to be addressed include ferry fares and pricing strategies, levels of service, capital plans for boats and terminals, and financing strategies.  The Ferry Review--Phase 2 Policy Group issued a Status Report in December, 2007.  The remaining anticipated work products will be completed by December, 2008.

The Cedar River Group has been chosen to conduct this study for the JTC.  The Policy Group meets on a regular basis to review the study.  JTC staff lead is Paul Neal.

Freight Investment Study
This consultant study, mandated by SSB 5207 (2007) (Final Bill Report), is to evaluate existing fees paid by the freight industry and to identify other income sources to finance freight congestion relief investments.  This includes an evaluation of other states and countries' programs and their impact on competitiveness.  It is examining the structure of a project recommendation body.  The Freight Investment Study Policy Group includes ten Legislators, one Transportation Commissioner and a representative from the Governor's office.  The Freight Investment Study Stakeholder Group, composed of nearly 30 industry representatives, is participating in the study process.  Originally findings were to be completed prior to the 2008 Session; however the Committee has extended the study to coordinate with highway and rail freight project work being done by the Department of Transportation and will present its findings to the 2009 Session. 

Cambridge Systematics, Inc. is the prime consultant on the Freight Investment Study.   JTC staff lead for this study is Gene Baxstrom.  For additional information click on the following link:  Related Freight and Transportation Studies and Reports.

Special Needs Transportation Study
This study, mandated in SHB 1694 (2007) (Final Bill Report), is to review legal and programmatic changes needed to effectively coordinate special needs transportation services at the regional level.  This includes examining non-traditional service providers, facility siting decisions, and strategies for a decentralized broker system.  Meetings with providers, brokers and the many agencies sponsoring trips for persons with special needs will be held.  Introduction.

The consultant team led by Nelson\Nygaard was chosen in December, 2007, to conduct this study; a policy group will be formed to oversee its progress. A final draft report of this study will be completed by December, 2008.   Gene Baxstrom is the JTC staff lead for this study.