Washington Workers' Economic Prosperity Depends On Strong Trade and Transportation

EVERETT, WA—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce today made a stop in Everett as part of a nationwide grassroots and advocacy campaign to address the critical role of trade and transportation to America's workers, consumers, and businesses.

"We have to wake up to our growing infrastructure challenges and the importance of opening up our markets if Washington State is going to remain competitive globally," said Leslie Schweitzer, Chamber senior trade advisor. "We cannot effectively move people and goods with overcongested airports and ports, as well as crumbling roads and bridges."

At the event, held in partnership with the Everett Chamber of Commerce, Congressman Rick Larsen, Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson, and other issue experts focused on the important roles that a strong infrastructure and open trade policies play in our nation's economic well-being before an audience of mostly small and medium-size businesses. The multicity campaign combines the Chamber's multimillion-dollar Let's Rebuild America initiative with the organization's TradeRoots program, which helps educate small and medium-size businesses on the benefits of trade.

Washington Transportation Fact: About 34% of roads are congested in urban areas across Washington according to the American Society of Civil Engineers, costing each Seattle-area commuter an extra $820 and each Spokane-area commuter an extra $166 annually in excess fuel and lost time

Washington Trade Fact: In 2007, Washington-produced manufactured goods generated more than 293,300 jobs for workers in Washington. In addition, agricultural exports support nearly 26,400 jobs both on and off the farm in food processing, storage, and transportation.

"You can't move goods in and out of Washington and the Seattle area without a strong infrastructure," said Janet Kavinoky, Chamber director of transportation and infrastructure. "Our job is to get everyone talking, identify legislation to spur investment in transportation, and open more doors for Washington businesses so that they can take advantage of opportunities to sell their products and services abroad."

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

www.uschamber.com

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