This morning Governor Kitzhaber signed into law House Bill 2800-Enrolled. This law approves $450 million in state bonding to finance Oregon’s share of the $3.4 billion I-5 Bridge Replacement Project. AGC Government Affairs Director John Rakowitz attended the ceremony held in the Governor’s Ceremonial Office this morning. The signing of the law marks a major step forward in launching a project that has been under review and discussion for decades at the local, state, and federal level. Governor Kitzhaber emphasized that now is the time to build this bridge and secure the significant federal funding investments. He also underscored the importance of this project to address the safety and congestion issues, freight immobility, and the earthquake risks of the current bridge. Now all of the attention turns to the Washington State Legislature to finance its share of the I-5 Bridge Replacement Program. Mike Salsgiver, AGC Oregon-Columbia Chapter’s executive director, is working closely with the other AGC chapters in the State of Washington to secure that state’s share of this vital investment in both states’ future economies.
For more information on the actions taken in Oregon today or the future actions in Washington State, please contact John Rakowitz, 503-317-1781, or Mike Salsgiver.