3/23/04-A bill that would allow the state Transportation Department to open up state Route 167 high-occupancy vehicle lanes to drivers willing to pay a toll has died.
HB2808, which previously passed the House 57-41, remained in the Senate Highways and Transportation Committee at the close of the legislative session that ended March 11.
The bill would authorize a pilot project to allow solo drivers to use 167 northbound and southbound HOV lanes between Renton and Auburn. The toll amount would depend on congestion levels.

2/26/04-House lawmakers passed a bill that would allow the state Transportation Department to open up state Route 167 high-occupancy vehicle lanes to drivers willing to pay a toll.
The House passed the measure 57-41 Feb. 16. It has been forwarded to the Senate.
HB2808 would authorize a pilot project to allow solo drivers to use 167 northbound and southbound HOV lanes between Renton and Auburn. The toll amount would depend on congestion levels.
Current HOV users would continue to have free access to the lanes.
The bill requires WSDOT to monitor the project and modify it if such problems emerge. It says the conversion of single HOV lanes to HOT lanes “must be taken as the exception for this pilot project.”
In addition, a “reasonable proportion” of toll revenue must also be used to increase transit, car-pool and van-pool service in the 167 corridor.
For bill status, call (360) 786-7573. In Washington, call 1-800-562-6000.