Press Release

Vancouver, Washington -- The public is invited to an open house on May 15, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fidel's Restaurant in Bingen, Washington, to review and comment on possible Columbia River crossing improvement alternatives. Participants will have an opportunity to review results of a preliminary analysis of alternatives conducted as part of the process of preparing a draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for this study. A recommended preliminary preferred alternative also will be discussed. Each alternative, including the recommended preliminary preferred alternative, would be a new bridge accommodating cars, trucks, bicycles and pedestrians, located near the existing Hood River Bridge.

Presentations about the alternatives are scheduled for 5:30 and 6:45 p.m. The presentations also will include information about the process of preparing and reviewing the DEIS, including future additional opportunities for public comment.

The open house is sponsored by the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council, in partnership with the Oregon and Washington Departments of Transportation and local cities and counties. Members of the project team will be available to answer questions about the project and listen to comments. Members of the public are welcome to attend any time between 5 and 8 p.m. and listen to the presentations at 5:30 and 6:45. Fidel's restaurant is located on State Route 14 in downtown Bingen [map/directions].

Anyone who cannot attend the meeting is welcome to send comments or suggestions to Dale Robins, Project Manager, Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council, PO Box 1366, Vancouver, WA 98666-1366, Telephone: 360-397-6067. Additional information also can be obtained at the project web site: http://www.rtc.wa.gov/studies/sr35.

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