Oregon Watchdog: Gelser supports Connect Oregon II transportation projects

Oregon Legislature
House Majority Office

PRESS RELEASE: May 23, 2008
CONTACT: Geoff Sugerman, 503-986-1904

Gelser Supports Connect Oregon II Projects in Albany/Corvallis Area

State Rep. Sara Gelser today announced she has provided testimony to the Oregon Transportation Commission in support of two transportation projects in the Corvallis/Albany area she represents.

Both projects – improving the Albany Rail Corridor Improvement Project and the Mill City Bridge Rehab and Rail Improvement Project -- are among the recommended projects for Connect Oregon II, a legislative program designed to rebuild Oregon’s transportation infrastructure. Approximately 30 projects totaling $100 million will be funded.

The Transportation Commission held a public hearing Tuesday in advance of final approval of the projects in late June.

Rep. Gelser, in a letter urging support of the projects to the Oregon Transportation Commission, said they will “be a highly efficient use of the transportation investments I supported during the 2007 legislative session by reducing transportation costs and easing crossing delays that create traffic congestion and block access to businesses.”

Gelser said the Albany Rail Corridor Improvement Project will enhance one of the critical transportation links in our state and will help facilitate key economic activities, at the same time it reduces congestion in the area.

“When we can improve our ability to move freight, reduce congestion and help local businesses, then this is a winning combination for our state and our local communities,” said Gelser. “That’s the kind of public investment that makes sense.”

The Mill City Bridge and Rail Rehab Project is as much a safety issues as it is a transportation issue, said Gelser. It is clear that this rail line in Linn County and the Santiam Canyon region is nearing the end of its lifespan and must be upgraded to continue to provide safe transport.

“The review committee that recommended this project be funded as it will provide economic growth opportunities and job creation. Those are precisely the goals we set forward in approving this investment in Connect Oregon II,” said Gelser. “These are two worthy projects and I am joining with my constituents and colleagues in Corvallis and Albany in supporting them.”
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