A special thanks to our WASHTO Whale sponsors:
Dear WASHTO Delegates and Attendees,
Let me be the first to officially invite you to the WASHTO 2009 Annual Meeting on
July 12 -15 in beautiful Seattle.
Our chosen theme "Waves of Change" reflect the challenges we will be facing in 2009, which includes a new federal transportation act, and new advances in funding transportation. Join us on Seattle's waterfront where we'll showcase innovative transportation efforts including the nation's largest ferry system, HOT lanes, safety initiatives, and other progressive programs. We are lining up interesting speakers, technical tours, and a variety of panels and workshops.
The Washington State Department of Transportation is proud to host this event. We are eager to showcase our beautiful state and our impressive events, unique locations, and the beauty that we enjoy everyday up here in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle features numerous art galleries and museums, the Seattle Aquarium and the Woodland Park Zoo, the historic Pike Place Market, the Pacific Science Center and the Experience Music Project. Visitors can also enjoy the Washington Park Arboretum, great shopping at downtown boutiques and the natural beauty of Olympic and Mt. Rainier National Parks, the San Juan Islands, and our crowning jewel the Puget Sound.
Of course you cannot come to Seattle without visiting the world famous Space Needle, which is where we are hosting our welcome reception on Sunday, July 12. Come enjoy the best 360 panoramic views of Seattle and take the elevator up even higher to the Space Needle's 520-foot Observation Deck. Next, experience the thrill of flight without leaving the ground at the Washington State Night Dinner at the Museum of Flight. This world class museum features aircraft hovering overhead and landing at your feet, and impressive collection of World War I and World War II fighters, tours of prototypes of the Boeing 737 and 747, a British Airways Concorde, and America's first jet Air Force One.
I am confident that the 2009 WASHTO annual meeting will be a great experience. From the moment you arrive in our vibrant city, you will never be at a loss for things to do and see.
Paula J. Hammond
Secretary of Transportation