| OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program |
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| Web Brief (Mar 05) |
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A Shared Vision for the Columbia River Gorge
Citizens in Troutdale, Corbett, Cascade Locks, Hood River, and The Dalles have joined a modern-era Corps of Discovery.
Much as Lewis and Clark charted a new course in the Columbia River Gorge, more than 400 Gorge-area residents met in a recent series of community meetings to articulate their vision for protecting the natural splendor, historic character, and transportation assets of the Interstate 84 corridor.
It was the first bold step to create a portrait for what this region will look like over the next century.
“I was supremely impressed with the presentation,” said Bill Pattison, chairman of the Historic Columbia River Highway Advisory Committee. “ODOT is developing a consensus from a large group of stakeholders on a large project with many ideas. It’s impressive to me to see this being done, and I’m delighted to be a part of it.”
During the next few years, several transportation improvements will occur along the I-84 corridor. One of the first major initiatives is the repair or replacement of 21 bridges as part of the Oregon Transportation Investment Act (OTIA) program. The bridges are being designed during the next two years.
Before work begins on these projects, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), together with the Columbia River Gorge Commission, USDA Forest Service, Federal Highway Administration, and county agencies throughout the Gorge, is securing the opinions of those communities closest to the projects. The intent is to create a joint strategy that can guide capital improvements throughout the region.
Considering the unique nature of each of the five communities involved, a striking commonality of opinion on major issues has emerged. High on everyone’s list are the preservation of natural and historic resources and a concern for safety.
The participants want more scenic overlooks and more bicycle accessibility. There is agreement that the highway should not be a barrier to the movement of wildlife.
Increasing economic opportunities for Gorge communities also is a high priority. Tourism will benefit from a safer transportation route that celebrates the diverse natural habitats in the Gorge.
The next set of community meetings will take place in May. Gorge communities will articulate their opinions around specific design guidelines for road and bridge construction. These guidelines will build a foundation for an interdisciplinary, interagency project planning and development process. The process will guide construction and ensure that the finished project represents the joint vision for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area now and in the future.
Throughout the OTIA program, ODOT will reaffirm its commitment to achieving responsible stewardship of the natural environment while maintaining the highest safety standards. That commitment will result in the use of new processes and new technologies that increase sensitivity to the local habitats and wildlife populations.
The Columbia Gorge is a treasured resource for this state and the nation. By listening to and incorporating the shared vision of the people who live and work in this beautiful region, the agency will be able to produce results that will be a source of pride for this generation and the generations that follow.
For more information on how to participate in the next series of workshops, look for information on ODOT’s web site: www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/OTIA/fullstory2.shtml.
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