| OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program |
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| Web Brief (Sep 05) |
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ODOT brings economic opportunity to Klamath Falls
Bridge program lifts financial fortunes of contractors, workers, and local businesses
In Klamath Falls, the bustle of increasing trade is obvious throughout town, from crowded seating at diners and restaurants to longer checkout lines in grocery stores. But locals aren’t complaining.
Klamath Falls to replace two highway bridges, it did more than secure safer travel on U.S. 97. The two major construction projects brought a much-wanted shot in the arm to a region eager for economic recovery.
“This has been a huge boost to our local economy and employment in Klamath Falls,” said Ron Criss, vice president of Klamath Pacific Cos., a subcontractor on the projects. “There are many contractors, workers, and businesses in the region deeply appreciative of the opportunities that ODOT has brought here.”
In Klamath Falls, replacing the Greensprings Drive Bridge and the California Avenue Bridge was a critical component of ODOT’s strategy to strengthen the U.S. 97 corridor as an alternate route. This corridor will keep commerce, commuters, and tourists moving smoothly when construction starts on the nearby segment of Interstate 5.
“Besides improving infrastructure, one of the main goals of the bridge program is to create economic opportunities throughout Oregon,” said Heather Catron, OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program manager. “We are committed to using local contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers wherever possible and Klamath Falls serves as an excellent example of how this philosophy can boost local economies."
ODOT hired Hamilton Construction as prime contractor, and Hamilton has hired several local subcontractors and materials suppliers. United Pipe is a major supplier. A1 Trucking has been critical to the movement of heavy equipment needed for the project. Papè Cat is providing machine parts, and Harvest Ford is providing vehicle maintenance. And, as anyone familiar with repair projects knows, the need for a better tool or replacement part can arise unexpectedly. As a result, Hamilton has an open account at the Klamath Falls Home Depot.
The economic boost to the city of Klamath Falls will continue even when construction is finished. While U.S. 97 is serving as a prime alternate route for I-5, the city will see increased tourist and commuter traffic and a corresponding lift in spending at local gas stations, motels and hotels, and restaurants.
The replacement of the Greensprings Drive Bridge and the California Avenue Bridge is a major success story for the state. Both bridges will be complete by mid-December, only 10 months after construction began. This accelerated progress was supported by local companies in Klamath Falls, all of whom share not only in the prosperity created by the bridge program, but also in credit for its success.
##ODOT##
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