Oregon commission allocates $40.4 million for 36 multi-modal projects

The Oregon Transportation Commission recently approved $40.4 million in ConnectOregon V program funding for 36 multi-modal projects in the state.

After considering input from the public at a hearing held in July and reviewing a large volume of written comments, the commission allocated funding for 36 of 37 recommended projects. The commission did not approve funding for a berth reconstruction project submitted by the Port of St. Helens and will consider how to distribute the remaining program funds at a future meeting.

The commission received 104 applications requesting a total of $124.4 million in ConnectOregon V funding. Each application was evaluated and ranked by several stakeholder groups, including modal committees and regional committees, before being considered by a final review committee.

The approved allocations include funds for several rail-related projects, including:
• $6 million to the Port of Morrow for a cold storage facility;
• $3 million to the city of Rainier for its A Street safety/rail project;
• $2 million to the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay to rehabilitate a rail tunnel;
• $841,300 to White's Hauling for a rail siding; and
• $783,700 to LRY L.L.C. to expand the Lakeview spur.