Information Sheet

Economy and Jobs

Gov. Gary Locke’s proposed budget in an attempt to rejuvenate Washington’s economy and create jobs will:

• Fund a $2.5 billion state construction budget, which supports an annual average of 13,400 private sector construction and related jobs, to provide infrastructure needed to spur business growth and new classroom space at state colleges and universities.

• Provide $108 million to nurture economic development through strategies that create new jobs, assist emerging new industries such as biotechnology and clean energy, assist local economic development efforts, operate the Washington Trade and Convention Center and market Washington products to the world.

• Provide $87 million to state colleges and universities for increased enrollment in high-demand fields and for workforce training programs that give workers the skills they need to get a good job.

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