I-5 Bridge Study Expanded to Consider Possible Interchange

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Eugene and Springfield as well as improve access to the University of Oregon. This has the potential to create jobs and improve the long-term economic viability of the region." DeFazio went onto say, "I hope the President and the Republican leadership stop holding the highway bill hostage so we can begin to provide tangible and effective economic stimulus for Oregon and this nation." Earlier this spring, DeFazio asked ODOT Director Bruce Warner to consider including analysis of a new interchange in ODOT's environmental impact study for the permanent replacement bridge. DeFazio, a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee worked with the Oregon Delegation to secure $2.7 billion for Oregon in the six-year federal highway and transit funding bill, the Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (TEA-LU, HR 3550). A portion of those federal funds will likely be used to replace the Willamette bridge and address Oregon's crumbling roads and bridges. However, TEA-LU has stalled because the Republican-controlled Congress and the White House cannot agree on the funding level for the bill. "Interstate access at Franklin would create Eugene's first true front door to welcome visitors. I can think of no better gateway to downtown Eugene than the University of Oregon. This could be a great deve{opment if the study recommends it, and future funding can be secured," said Eugene Mayor Jim Torrey. Springfield Mayor Sid Leiken concurred, saying, "Great things result when partners collaborate on a shared vision. Interstate access would open up Glenwood as the western gateway to Springfield and stimulate redevelopment in our prime riverfront area." Any interchange construction indicated by the study could be phased at some future time following completion of the bridge. Therefore an interchange finding in the study should not have any impact delaying the construction of the permanent replacement bridge.