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. Trade and business leaders in the Puget Sound Region concerned with freight mobility cite the need for the development of grade separations at railroad crossings in the South Kingdome and Tacoma Dome areas as well as in the Kent Valley. Without these investments, potential exporters, including agricultural producers in eastern Washington, will experience costly delays in reaching export markets. It often requires manufacturing and shipping in relatively small lot sizes, increasing the use of transportation resources.