Alternative sidewalk funding study

In the 2025-2027 Transportation Budget (SB 5161, Section 204) the Washington State Legislature directed the Joint Transportation Committee (JTC) to conduct a study on new methods for local governments in Washington state to fund sidewalk improvements. The study will review revenue options utilized in other states and make evaluations based on fairness, stability, adequacy, regressivity, simplicity, and the effect on economic vitality. The study will also make recommendations on viable alternative funding options that would work best in Washington and any potential statutory changes that might be required to implement those funding options.

The study must:

• describe and summarize current sidewalk funding options for local governments in Washington 
  
  
• evaluate alternative sidewalk funding options used by local governments in other states nationwide
  
  
• analyze the viability and applicability of these other alternative sidewalk funding options in Washington
  
  
• develop case studies of alternative sidewalk funding models and potential revenue projections for multiple local governments in Washington 
  
  
• engage in outreach with the local governments selected for a case study

The JTC has hired BERK Consulting to conduct the study and the consultant will provide recommendations on any changes to current practices and statutory requirements.

The consultant must submit a preliminary report by December 15, 2025 and the final report is due to the transportation committees of the Legislature and Governor's office by June 30, 2026.