How do we pay for it?

That perennial question forms the basis for much of what is being discussed today in Seattle by the Joint Transportation Committee.

Continuing a busy summer of meetings, JTC will spend time addressing alternative transportation funding methods. As vehicles become more fuel efficient and people cut back on driving, the fuel tax that funds most of Washington’s transportation projects isn’t going as far as it used to. The JTC is looking into how the state can best continue funding transportation projects as we move into a new era.

Also on the agenda for today’s meeting is ferry funding. Washington State Ferries will present its final long-range plan, which is the result of three years of intensive study and discussion. The committee will also discuss ferry fares (including, probably, yesterday’s news that the Transportation Commission rejected a proposed summer surcharge).

Stay tuned to JTC’s meetings page to read the agenda and other materials.