Pierce County is a multi-modal community. There are two ferry systems, a major port, an extensive transit system, a freight rail network, numerous smaller airports, and a network of state and local roadways. While all of these modes play a unique role in the movement of people and goods, roadways receive most of the attention. And little wonder. There are more people in Pierce County every year. And that means more cars. Pierce County’s population grew from 586,000 in 1990 to 706,000 in 2000. It’s anticipated that in 2020, our population will reach 892,000. By that time, the number of daily trips taken by Pierce County residents is expected to increase over 30%, from 2.2 million to 2.9 million trips. Not only will more trips be made, but people will travel further. The daily vehicle miles traveled (VMT) which is the "collective" miles traveled by the population per day is anticipated to grow from its present 13.9 million to 19.2 million trips; a 38% increase.

No wonder transportation in Pierce County and the Puget Sound region has reached a critical point. The growing traffic congestion on both the state and local roadway systems threatens our quality of life and the vitality of our business climate. Not only are residents "losing time" in traffic but the business sector is losing money while workers, materials, and products sit on clogged roadways.

Pierce County isn’t standing still. Projects that are vital to the economy and well-being of our communities are being identified, and in some cases, funded and completed or are under construction.

The Lake Tapps Parkway linking the north Lake Tapps and East Valley areas with a direct connection to State Route 167 was recently completed.

The Canyon Road East corridor will provide a series of significant projects extending Canyon Road both north and south and increasing the number of lanes in the fast growing mid-county area.

Major projects on the drawing board include the Cross-Base Highway. By connecting I-5 with south Pierce County, the Cross-Base Highway will reduce east/west drive time by up to 42% and save $12 million annually in vehicle operating costs. It will also improve access to Frederickson, the largest commercial area zoned for industrial use in western Washington.

The extension of State Route 167 will complete the north/south route to I-5 from east Pierce County and connect I-5 with the Port of Tacoma greatly improving freight mobility.

Transportation is an integral part of making Pierce County more livable. For additional information on local projects, contact Pierce County Public Works and Utilities. For state projects, contact the Washington State Department of Transportation.