An improved infrastructure serves to decrease the cost of production and delivery. In this way, economic growth depends on the transportation infrastructure. Washington's population and total employment are expected to grow by 32 percent in the next 20 years. The population growth is driven by net migration into the state. Washington is considered a relatively good place to live, work, and raise a family, but increases in congestion could alter this view in the future.
Foreign exports are twice as important to Washington's economy as they are to the national economy.
Slightly more than one in six Washington jobs was related to foreign trade in 1985. This will increase as the global marketplace and trade along the Pacific rim expand. Exports are important for virtually every community in the state. Similarly, cargo activity from Boeing field will increase from 22,000 to 78,000. To meet demands projected for central Puget Sound ports, improved port access and rail transportation capacity will be required.