As part of a pilot project approved and funded by the Federal Highway Administration, the Astoria-Megler Bridge will get new solar powered navigation lights. The bridge connects Oregon and Washington at the mouth of the Columbia River.
 
Read more about the solar lighting project 
 
Research Notes on the demonstration project

One great example of an innovative project that exemplifies integrating sustainability into the business of ODOT is the Elk Creek Tunnel demonstration project in Region 3. This project highlights the co-benefit opportunities that exist with sustainable projects; in this case the region was able to reduce operations and maintenance costs while increasing energy efficiency. By replacing the High Pressure Sodium lighting fixtures with induction lighting fixtures and permanently removing 136 fixtures, the region has reduced the annual energy use in the tunnel by 52%.  
Read more about the Elk Creek Tunnel Project 
 
Watch a video about the Elk Creek Tunnel Induction Lighting Project

Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez joined the Oregon Department of Transportation and representatives from public and private partner organizations to break ground this morning for Oregon's second solar highway project. When complete, the new solar array at the Baldock Rest Areas on Interstate 5 north near Wilsonville will produce nearly 9 percent of ODOT's power needs in the Portland General Electric service area.
 
Read more about the Baldock Solar Highway Project

ODOT has purchased its first diesel electric hybrid bucket truck! The truck helps the agency reduce fuel use through higher MPG and the incorporation of idle reduction technology. The battery pack device allows for the truck to run its hydraulic system that operates the man-lift boom for approximately 30 minutes before the engine automatically turns on to charge the battery pack for 8 minutes, then turns off again.
 
Read more about this exciting acquisition

Recently, the Oregon Department of Transportation and Friends of Trees kicked off a three-year project to plant thousands of native trees and shrubs along the I-205 Multi-Use Path, which stretches 15 miles along Interstate 205 from the Columbia River to Gladstone. Funding for the project comes from a $410,000 Nature in Neighborhoods grant from Metro's 2006 voter-approved natural area bond measure; an $80,000 grant from East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District; and generous donations from area businesses. When complete, this project will be showcased as a statewide model for the greening of ODOT right of way.
 
Read more about the partnership and project

ODOT partnered with Eugene Water & Electric Board to build and erect a new nesting platform for ospreys in Eugene. It's an effort to entice a returning pair to relocate their nest out of harms way. It was a perfect blend of skills and equipment by two public agencies collaborating on a project of infrastructure protection and environmental sustainability.
 
Read more about the project

Work is now complete on two electric vehicle charging stations for ODOT facilities. The stations will charge the five Nissan Leaf electric vehicles ODOT purchased and provide a sustainable transportation choice for business travel.
 
Read more about charging stations at ODOT