The department shall define an initial affected project area
for proposed projects selected before September 1, 1994, or after June 30,
1997. In order to define the initial affected project area, and pursuant to the
requirements of
RCW
47.46.030(4), the department
shall conduct a comprehensive analysis of traffic patterns and economic impacts
to define the geographic area that is affected by the imposition of tolls or
user fees.
(1)
Traffic and
economic analysis. Such analysis shall result in a map depicting the
initial affected project area, and shall include, at a minimum:
(a) A comparison of the estimated percentage
of residents of communities in the vicinity of the project and in other
communities impacted by the project who could be subject to tolls or user fees
and the estimated percentage of other users and transient traffic that could be
subject to tolls or user fees;
(b)
An analysis of the anticipated traffic diversion patterns on local streets,
highways and to other transportation services or facilities;
(c) An analysis of the potential economic
impact resulting from proposed toll rates or user fee rates imposed on
residents, commercial traffic, and commercial entities in communities in the
vicinity of and impacted by the project;
(d) An analysis of the economic impact of
tolls or user fees on the price of goods and services generally; and
(e) An analysis of the relationship of the
project to state transportation needs and benefits.
(2)
Public notification and
consultation. The department shall notify and consult with jurisdictions
and interested persons and organizations regarding the studies to be conducted,
including the methodology that is developed to collect data and the criteria
that is established to recommend the initial affected project area
boundary.
(3)
Studies
available to public. The department shall make the studies available to
the public including the methodology and criteria used to develop the study
recommendations, published reports, raw data, analysis, maps and other
information generated by the studies.
(4)
Precinct boundaries. At the
request of the department, the county auditor in any county which is within an
initial affected project area shall provide current precinct maps or boundary
descriptions to the department. The department shall use the most current
precinct maps or boundary descriptions in defining each initial affected
project area.
