BILL SECURES ADDITIONAL FUNDING SOURCE FOR SILICON FOREST INTERCHANGE PROJECT

SALEM – Rep. Shawn Lindsay (R-Hillsboro) today helped secure passage of a bill that could allocate up to $4 million for Hillsboro’s Shute Road/Brookwood Parkway interchange project. He said SB 1543 will direct the Oregon Transportation Commission to reallocate any unspent funds from the US Highway 26 project at 185^th to Cornell Road for use on this project.

“This legislation brings us a step closer to funding the Silicon Forest interchange project,” Rep. Lindsay said. “The project is critical for easing congestion at this primary entry point for people working at our local high-tech companies. In addition, this project will promote further industrial development and job creation in Hillsboro.”

The 2009 Legislature approved a transportation bill that provided funding to improve the US Highway 26 interchange at 185^th to Cornell Road, as well as to support transportation projects throughout the state. SB 1543 allows the Transportation Commission to redirect money from projects that have been completed under budget. The Silicon Forest interchange project will also be the subject of a TIGER IV grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Rep. Lindsay said the legislation ensures that the unspent money remains in Hillsboro to improve local infrastructure.

“With a thriving high-tech industry, Hillsboro and Washington County are the primary economic engines for our state,” Rep. Lindsay said. “It’s important that state government continues to support our efforts to improve our transportation system and help put more people to work.”

SB 1543 also addresses safety concerns with the transportation of hazardous materials along Cornelius Pass Road between Highway 30 and Hillsboro. The improvements will allow large trucks to navigate Cornelius Pass Road more safely.

SB 1543 now moves to the Governor’s desk for his signature.

BILL SECURES ADDITIONAL FUNDING SOURCE FOR SILICON FOREST INTERCHANGE PROJECT

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