Tumwater voters to consider renewing sales tax for street maintenance projects

Tumwater voters will soon consider a crucial ballot proposition to renew a 0. 2% sales tax dedicated to funding street maintenance projects, with the vote scheduled for the April 22 special election. The Tumwater City Council adopted a resolution on January 21, 2025, to place this measure on the ballot, clarifying that it does not propose any increase in tax rates. Since the tax's implementation in 2014, it has generated more than $19. 2 million, allowing for extensive improvements across over 100 lane miles of city roads.

Transportation Director Brandon Hicks noted that this funding has also facilitated the construction of more than 100 new curb ramps and approximately 38,000 feet of pavement markings, enhancing road safety and accessibility for residents. Hicks emphasized that without the transportation benefit district, the condition of Tumwater's roads would be significantly worse than a decade ago, reflecting a marked improvement in local infrastructure. The city has leveraged this tax to secure additional state and federal grant funding, further amplifying its impact on road maintenance. As the city’s streets have transitioned from being among the worst in the county to the second best, this renewal proposition is vital for sustaining these gains. The upcoming election will determine whether this critical funding source continues to support the ongoing improvement of Tumwater’s infrastructure.