Washington Administrative Code Title 136 - County Road Administration Board
Overview of WAC Title 136
WAC Title 136 contains the administrative rules governing the County Road Administration Board (CRAB), a Washington State agency responsible for overseeing the county road systems throughout the state.
CRAB’s mission is to ensure efficient, effective management, maintenance, and funding of county roads to promote safe and reliable transportation for the public.
Purpose of the County Road Administration Board
To provide oversight and technical assistance to counties managing road infrastructure.
To administer funding programs for county road construction, maintenance, and improvements.
To ensure compliance with state laws and standards for county roads.
To foster coordination and cooperation among counties and between counties and state/federal agencies.
To promote best practices in county road engineering and administration.
Key Functions and Rules under WAC Title 136
1. Board Structure and Governance
WAC Title 136 defines the composition and operation of the County Road Administration Board.
The Board typically consists of elected county officials (commissioners), county engineers, and public members appointed by the Governor.
It establishes meeting procedures, voting rules, and public participation requirements.
2. County Road Funding
CRAB administers various state and federal funds allocated for county road projects.
WAC rules specify:
Eligibility for funding programs.
Application and reporting requirements.
Allocation formulas based on factors like road mileage, population, and needs.
Funding categories include preservation, safety improvements, emergency repairs, and major construction.
3. Road Standards and Maintenance
WAC Title 136 sets minimum engineering and safety standards for county roads.
Rules cover:
Road design specifications.
Pavement conditions.
Traffic control devices.
Bridge inspections and maintenance.
Counties are required to maintain road systems consistent with these standards.
4. Reporting and Compliance
Counties must submit annual reports detailing road conditions, maintenance activities, expenditures, and project outcomes.
CRAB reviews reports to ensure counties are using funds appropriately and meeting state requirements.
Non-compliance can lead to funding restrictions or corrective actions.
5. Technical Assistance and Training
CRAB provides training programs and technical guidance to county engineers and road officials.
Topics include road design, maintenance best practices, safety protocols, and grant administration.
6. Emergency Management and Disaster Response
The Board coordinates county road responses to natural disasters (e.g., floods, earthquakes).
It helps counties secure emergency funding and implement repairs quickly.
Importance of WAC Title 136
Ensures that county roads are safe, well-maintained, and efficiently managed.
Promotes equitable and transparent distribution of funds to counties.
Supports coordination among multiple agencies for statewide transportation needs.
Enhances public accountability through reporting and oversight.
Helps maintain critical infrastructure that supports commerce, emergency services, and daily travel.
Summary
WAC Title 136 governs the rules and procedures of the County Road Administration Board in Washington.
The Board oversees county road funding, standards, compliance, and administration.
It sets criteria for fund distribution, enforces maintenance standards, and requires reporting from counties.
CRAB also provides training and technical support to improve county road management.
The rules help ensure Washington’s county road system remains safe, reliable, and well-funded
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