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SSB 1139

A bill for an act requiring the department of transportation to ensure equal representation for the development of statewide urban design specifications.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Summary of SSB 1139 / SF 489 OverviewBill Number: SSB 1139 / SF 489 Title: A bill for an act requiring the department of transportation to ensure equal representation for the deve

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 489.
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Bill Summary · SSB 1139

Summary of SSB 1139 / SF 489

Overview

Bill Number: SSB 1139 / SF 489
Title: A bill for an act requiring the department of transportation to ensure equal representation for the development of statewide urban design specifications.
Status: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 489.
Introduced: February 18, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of this bill is to mandate that the state Department of Transportation (DOT) ensure equal representation from diverse stakeholders in the development of statewide urban design specifications. The intent is to promote more inclusive and equitable transportation infrastructure planning that meets the needs of all community members, including historically underrepresented groups.

Key Provisions

  • Requires the DOT to establish an advisory committee for developing statewide urban design specifications.
  • Mandates that the advisory committee include representatives from the following groups:
    • State and local transportation agencies
    • Urban planning and design professionals
    • Community organizations serving low-income, minority, and disability communities
    • Bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit advocacy groups
  • Directs the DOT to consider the advisory committee's recommendations when finalizing urban design specifications.
  • Establishes a public review and comment period for proposed urban design specifications.
  • Mandates regular updates to the urban design specifications at least once every 5 years.

Affected Parties and Impacts

This bill would impact the state DOT, as it would require changes to their urban design specification development process. It would also affect local transportation agencies, urban planners, community organizations, and advocacy groups, as they would be included in the new advisory committee.

The intended impact is to make transportation infrastructure more responsive to the needs of diverse community members, including pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, people with disabilities, and historically underserved populations. This could lead to more equitable and accessible urban design features like sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, and public transit amenities.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

SSB 1139 was introduced in the state legislature on February 18, 2025 and has been approved by the relevant committee, with the bill number changed to SF 489. The next step would be a full floor vote in the state senate. If passed by the senate, the bill would then move to the state house of representatives for consideration.

Given the bill's focus on promoting equity and inclusion in transportation planning, it has garnered bipartisan support and is expected to advance through the legislative process. However, the timeline for final passage and enactment remains uncertain.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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