Wyden, Smith Announce Federal Funding for Oregon Transportation Projects

Included is $1.5 million for the Salem Airport to extend the runway at McNary Field.

Salem-News.com

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Gordon Smith (R-OR) announced today that nearly $93 million is included in the FY2008 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill for transportation and community development projects throughout the state of Oregon.

The legislation, which was approved last week by the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, must now be approved by the full Senate.

“Every dollar spent on expanding public transportation, upgrading roads and developing communities is a dollar invested in Oregon’s future and quality of life,” Wyden said. “This funding promises more jobs and greater opportunities for Oregon’s businesses and families.”

“Efficient and modern transportation infrastructure is crucial to Oregon’s economy,” Smith said. “Funding for light rail, roadways and economic development are an important investment in the future of our state.”

Oregon projects included in the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee’s THUD bill are as follows:

· $80 million to add an 8.3 mile light rail extension connecting downtown Portland with Clackamas Regional Center;

· $1 million to redevelop 2.25 acres including an unused flour mill at the Brewery Grade/Highway 30 Intersection;

· $1 million for the Columbia River Crossing project to make improvements for automobiles, freight, bicycle and pedestrian users;

· $500,000 to make street capacity and safety improvements between Northbound I-5 and Highway 43;

· $2 million for safety enhancements of the Burnt River Canyon section of I-84 in Baker County;

· $200,000 to expand the Neighbors for Kids facility in Lincoln County;

· $500,000 to rehabilitate the Port of Gold Beach High Dock;

· $3.75 million to expand and renovate the Redmond Airport Terminal to accommodate larger aircraft;

· $600,000 for the Regional Bridges to Housing program in Portland, to develop affordable, permanent family-sized housing and services for adult and child program participants;

· $1.5 million for the Salem Airport to extend the runway at McNary Field;

· $400,000 for the Santo Community Center to build recreational facilities and a small conference center;

· $500,000 for Umatilla County to construct a fairgrounds exposition center;

· $1 million for construction of the Washington Monroe Community Center in Portland.