Washington Administrative Code Title 479 - Transportation Improvement Board
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 479 – Transportation Improvement Board (TIB)
This title within the Washington Administrative Code governs the policies, procedures, and rules that relate to the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board (TIB), a state agency responsible for funding transportation infrastructure projects that enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve connectivity throughout Washington.
Overview of the Transportation Improvement Board (TIB)
The TIB was created by the Washington State Legislature to manage state transportation funding for local government projects. The board’s goal is to support cities, counties, and transportation benefit districts by distributing grants to improve transportation infrastructure. It focuses on urban and small city corridors, with an emphasis on preserving and improving transportation systems.
Key Purposes of Title 479 WAC
Establish rules for funding programs
Define eligibility and prioritization criteria
Set guidelines for project application, approval, and management
Outline standards for project completion and compliance
Provide administrative procedures for board operations
Detailed Breakdown of Major Sections in Title 479
1. Definitions and General Provisions
Establishes key terms and definitions used throughout Title 479.
Clarifies what constitutes eligible entities, such as incorporated cities, towns, and certain urbanized areas.
Defines the types of projects eligible for funding, typically road improvements, pedestrian/bike paths, and corridor enhancements.
2. Program Descriptions
The TIB operates several grant programs, each with its own purpose and eligibility criteria. WAC 479 outlines them in detail:
a. Urban Arterial Program (UAP)
Targets cities with populations over 5,000.
Focuses on improving arterial roads to enhance safety and reduce congestion.
Project selection based on safety concerns, traffic volume, and cost-effectiveness.
b. Small City Arterial Program (SCAP)
For cities under 5,000 population.
Aims to help small communities rehabilitate or reconstruct local roads that serve as arterials or collectors.
c. Small City Preservation Program (SCPP)
Dedicated to pavement preservation for small cities.
Grants for chip seal, overlay, or basic surface maintenance.
d. Sidewalk Program
Funds construction or repair of sidewalks and pedestrian facilities.
Emphasizes projects that improve pedestrian safety, school routes, or access to transit.
e. Complete Streets Program
Supports projects that promote multi-modal transportation and incorporate environmental sustainability.
Awards based on commitment to “Complete Streets” policies (i.e., designing streets for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and transit riders).
3. Eligibility and Application Requirements
Entities must be eligible government agencies (cities, counties, transportation benefit districts).
Projects must align with local transportation plans and regional goals.
Applications must include:
Project description
Cost estimates
Timeline
Justification and community benefit
4. Project Evaluation and Selection Criteria
Projects are ranked and selected based on:
Public safety impact
Traffic volume and capacity improvements
Cost-effectiveness
Regional significance
Readiness to proceed (shovel-ready status)
Environmental or community benefit
5. Project Management and Reporting Requirements
Once approved, grantees must:
Maintain progress reports
Provide quarterly updates on timelines, costs, and scope
Ensure compliance with WSDOT standards and state regulations
Projects must be completed within the approved budget and schedule.
6. Audits, Compliance, and Reimbursement
The TIB conducts post-project audits to verify:
Proper use of funds
Adherence to project plans
Financial accountability
Failure to comply may result in:
Withholding of funds
Repayment of grant money
Disqualification from future funding
7. Board Governance and Administrative Procedures
Describes the composition of the TIB:
Members include state officials, city and county representatives, and private sector advisors.
Details procedures for:
Public meetings
Rule-making
Appeals and grievances related to project decisions
Key Goals of the TIB (as supported by WAC Title 479):
Improve safety and accessibility in Washington's transportation system.
Leverage state funds to attract federal or local funding.
Promote sustainable, multimodal, and efficient infrastructure.
Support both urban growth and rural stability through targeted investments.
Conclusion
WAC Title 479 provides the legal and procedural framework for how the Transportation Improvement Board administers grant funding to local governments in Washington. It governs who can apply, how funds are awarded, and what standards must be met for project success and accountability. This structure ensures that transportation funding is used efficiently, equitably, and in alignment with broader state goals like safety, connectivity, and sustainability.
RELATED Blog
0 comments