Many in Washington understand the value proposition marine cargo and our Puget Sound seaports play.

Thousands of family wage jobs that do not require a Ph.D. or master's degree—​in other words, accessible jobs for the average citizen—are found on our working waterfront.

Who gets it?

• The federal government: Last week the federal government decided to invest $20 million in the Port of Seattle through a TIGER grant.
• Puget Sound Regional Council: Recently, PSRC awarded the City of Fife $7 million in federal funds to rebuild the Interstate 5/Port of Tacoma Road interchange, a critical choke point for exports making their way to Commencement Bay.
• Port of Tacoma: We are also investing in our supply chain and about to complete a $20 million modernization of Pier 3.

But who's missing?

• The Legislature

When the federal government (not really known for its speed or its responsiveness lately) is doing more to invest in our infrastructure than the Legislature, doesn’t it become a little, well, embarrassing?