Local Legislator Proposes End To I-405 Tolling

WOODINVILLE, WA - A Republican Mill Creek legislator wants to return I-405 to its pre-tolling days.

State Rep. Mark Harmsworth, R-Mill Creek, says that tolling has only increased congestion, especially at the northern end of I-405, according to reports. His law would return one of the express lanes to general traffic.

But Democrats in the Legislature warn that, if approved, Harmsworth's bill would reduce funding for I-405, which could harm drivers in the future.

The state Department of Transportation added express tolling lanes in September 2015 between Bellevue and Lynnwood. Although the change has made commuting easier for some - some are able to speed through rush hour traffic at 45 miles per hour - it has created a few problems. Tolls sometimes get as high as $10, and traffic near Canyon Park has increased because lanes go from five to three in that area.

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