| ConnectOregon III to fund another round of multimodal projects |
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| ConnectOregon News |
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The Oregon Department of Transportation recently announced the third round of ConnectOregon, a transportation program that provides funds for rail, public transit, air and marine/ports projects. ConnectOregon III was passed by the 2009 Legislature and signed by Governor Kulongoski as part of House Bill 2001, the Jobs and Transportation Act of 2009.
Like the first and second versions, ConnectOregon III is a lottery bond-based initiative providing $100 million to improve Oregon’s transportation system through multimodal investments, other than highway. ConnectOregon I and II projects, 68 total, are in various stages of completion.
ConnectOregon I and II help build strong foundations
ConnectOregon I funds were used to help the Port of Portland acquire a new crane for Terminal 6. The crane is improving operating efficiency and helping Oregon remain competitive in global markets. ConnectOregon II funds helped restore 22 miles of rail line in Hood River County and bring back a long-established freight line as well as a tourism draw that has been missing since 2006. By relocating the river channel and rebuilding sections of the line, area businesses have been able to re-establish in the area. Visit the Web site to see the lists of ConnectOregon projects and learn more about their status.
ODOT has been pleased to work with community groups, business leaders, local governments and other interested people to ensure ConnectOregon funds were allotted wisely, helping all corners of the state build strong foundations for multimodal transportation systems.
ConnectOregon III will continue to improve connections
ConnectOregon III has many similarities to its predecessors, including a requirement that at least 10 percent of the funds be provided to each of five regions, which mostly fall along county lines (Portland metropolitan area; Willamette Valley and North/Central Coast; Southern Oregon; Central Oregon; and Eastern Oregon). Projects will also be rated as in the past, taking into consideration economic benefit, readiness for construction, ability to reduce transportation costs, available matching funds or loans and value in linking transportation modes. New this year is a requirement to provide at least five percent of the funds to rural airports.
Fore more information about the program or to get an application packet, visit the ConnectOregon Web site.
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