The I-405/SR-167 corridor could get $18 tolls that ultimately could end up on the Interstate Bridge
During the first day of their May 2026 meeting, the Washington State Transportation Commission received numerous briefings. They included an update on the I-5 Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) Program, the likely need for an increase in I-405/SR-167 toll rates to $18 and extended hours for toll collection, and some eye-opening remarks from the State Treasurer’s office on state debt and spending.
Bottom line — we’re in trouble as we’ve almost maxed out our state’s credit card to borrow money. The Washington state “rainy day fund” is the lowest funded of any state in the nation. Our Department of Transportation is spending 20% of it’s operating revenues on debt service. All of which lead to S&P recently issuing notice that Washington state’s debt could be downgraded in the next year.
Take a listen.
