Transportation

HB 1064 eliminates the expiration date for the interagency, multijurisdictional system improvement team, informally known as SYNC. This team, comprised of state infrastructure program representatives, coordinates funding and projects to help local governments meet their infrastructure needs efficiently and cost-effectively. By removing the June 30, 2025, sunset date, the bill makes the team's work permanent. It also updates the team's reporting requirement to submit a biennial progress report to the legislature starting in November 2026.

HB 1054 allows counties operating ferry systems to enter into longer-term contracts (up to 10 years) for the maintenance and repair of county ferry vessels, specifically exempting these contracts from standard annual competitive bidding requirements. This change directly affects counties with ferry operations under Chapter 36.54 RCW, streamlining procurement for essential vessel upkeep. The bill amends existing law to permit "unit priced contracts" for ferry maintenance with extended terms, while keeping all other public works projects subject to standard competitive bidding rules. This policy adjustment aims to provide stability for ongoing ferry maintenance without altering general county purchasing procedures.