In 2017 the Oregon Legislature passed a transportation package to fund much-needed infrastructure projects throughout the state. At the last minute, the Abernethy / I-205 project funding was left out of the package. As the Oregon Department of Transportation moved into the planning phase, it became apparent there were obstacles standing in the way that would delay the projects that had been prioritized.

Last week, in the House Rules Committee, I proposed an amendment to HB 4017 to reallocate funds from the I-5 Rose Quarter project to pay for the Abernethy / I-205 project. While there were several voices from Clackamas County supporting my amendment, It faced opposition from legislators and agencies who don't support any changes to the original 2017 bill.  You can watch all the testimonies ( both in support and opposition): 

You can also read my testimony: 

Dear committee members, I’m advocating for funding to address the Abernethy Bridge for several reasons. It is not safe and needs seismic upgrades. When we eventually experience a Cascadia earthquake the bridge will collapse bringing regional instability and hindering our emergency response effort for the entire region. According to the ODOT website the Abernethy Bridge is, “vulnerable to severe damage or collapse in the event of a major earthquake. ODOT has designated I-205 as a nationwide north-south lifeline route, which means it must be operational quickly if an earthquake renders other roadways unusable or impassable. It will be a critical route in getting supplies and services to the region.” 

Frequently there is traffic diversion due to the Abernethy I-205 bottleneck Commuters often exit I-205 and use the residential roads of West Linn and the Stafford area in an attempt to avoid the bottleneck. Based on ODOTs interchange traffic volume report, we have seen a 260% increase in traffic reentering the interstate at the stafford exit. This increase represents more than 4100 vehicles diverting through the local community roads every day. Not only placing a burden on roads not constructed for this type of heavy traffic, but creating a safety risk for the families who live there.

It is unavoidable for the residents of my community to meet their basic needs without being impacted by I-205 congestion and its resulting diversion. Regardless of where they live, my constituents are impacted by diversion traffic. Willamette Falls Drive, Stafford Road, and Highway 43 are a few examples of two lane roads that are impacted by overcrowding on I-205. There are no other options for my constituents.

You have all seen headlines about local concerns and increase in cost which are delaying the Rose Quarter project, but I’m concerned many people do not know ODOT is planning to toll my district years ahead of the rest of the region. This is a concerning plan, and an issue that my constituents reach out to me about frequently. 

This past December, the Oregon Transportation Commission learned that ODOT has plans to toll Clackamas in 2023 and I-5 in 2026. Setting aside the logistical nightmare of diversion traffic to the Rose Quarter, it is fundamentally unfair to have my community singled out for tolls while the rest of the region has years before entertaining any such cost. I want to make this clear, I do not support ODOTs current tolling plan. It will add to local traffic as commuters look to not only avoid gridlock, but also avoid paying a new toll. We can fix the Abernethy bridge by being better stewards of taxpayer money.

I appreciate and respect the work that went into the 2017 bill. Given the current challenges facing the Rose Quarter project, I'd like for this legislature to reconsider how the money is allocated. There are real concerns that need to be addressed in the planning phases of the Rose Quarter project, and it is crucial we address the equity issues, and hear the concerns of the impacted communities, before moving forward. In contrast, the Abernethy Bridge and I-205 project is near shovel ready and has widespread community support. We have an opportunity to put people to work, save money, and address infrastructure concerns. I believe we must review every option to develop the best plan for Oregon. It is unacceptable that my community, and the residents of Clackamas County, should have to bear the burden of a region wide issue.

From what I’ve seen and learned during the 19 / 20 sessions we, as a Legislature, need to be deliberate in our decision making. I want to improve on the hard work of the 2017 architects and realize their vision of addressing these bottleneck projects. 

As a Nurse Practitioner I assess, I diagnose, and I treat. At times I have to reassess to ensure the highest quality of care for my patients. I believe Oregon is best served with the same careful consideration. We need to get moving on what’s ready and right for all communities, and that’s the Abernethy Bridge/ 1 205 bottleneck. 

Oregon's fire seasons are now on average 60 days longer than they were in the past. The increase in smoke from fires prompts public health concerns and economic distress that costs millions to our state. From wildfires, to extreme drought, to ocean acidification, our livelihoods are being put at risk and our communities are being put in danger. 

 

Currently, both Counties within HD 37 have been impacted by Coronavirus and I am paying close attention to any new information. Earlier today I was on a conference call with Governor Brown, Oregon Health Authority, staff from our federal delegation, and fellow legislators regarding the COVID-19 virus outbreak and you should know monitoring and containment efforts are underway across our community and state. For more information, and to stay up to date, you can visit the OHA website: 

 

Thank you for reading and allowing me to be your voice in Salem. It's a great privilege. Please don't hesitate to call my office at 503-986-1437 or email at [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,