September 13, 2007

Wyden, Smith Secure Over $90 Million for Oregon Community Development, Transportation Projects

Washington, DC - U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Gordon Smith (R-OR) announced today that the Senate approved the FY2008 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations bill, which includes nearly $93 million for transportation and community development projects throughout the state of Oregon. After passage by the full Senate, the spending bill moves to a conference committee to work out differences between Senate and House versions of the legislation.

"By investing in our infrastructure, we invest in Oregon's future," said Wyden. "These projects will relieve traffic congestion, improve our airports, make our roads safer, and generate jobs across the state."

"Innovative infrastructure development projects improve business climate, encourage community growth, and add to the standard of living," said Smith. "From light rail to highway improvements to expanded airport capacity, the projects included in this bill are positive local investments for Oregon."

Oregon Projects included in the FY2008 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.