The bill amends RCW 47.44.160 to enhance the Department of Transportation's (DOT) responsibilities regarding the coordination of utility and broadband facility installations during state highway projects. It mandates the DOT to adopt a policy that ensures proactive communication with broadband facility and utility owners about planned projects, facilitating collaboration to identify opportunities for installation during the appropriate phases. Additionally, if no utility owners are available to coordinate, the DOT may have contractors install broadband conduits as part of road construction to mitigate future traffic impacts and support telework and autonomous vehicle development.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new procedures for the DOT to notify utility owners about planned state fish barrier removal projects, providing at least one year of advance notice when feasible. It encourages the DOT to seek federal funding for these projects, including utility relocation costs, and requires a report to the legislature by December 15, 2026, detailing funding requests and recommendations for improving state law to enhance eligibility for federal grants. The bill also clarifies definitions related to broadband infrastructure and conduit.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 47.44.160
Substitute Bill: 47.44.160