Federal government approves $11 million for final stretch of Columbia River Highway
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The federal government awarded $11 million to the Oregon Department of Transportation on Thursday, which will fund the state’s ongoing work to complete the final stretch of the Columbia River Highway Project.
The historic highway, which was built between 1913 and 1922, was sliced up into sections and partially destroyed after the construction of I-84. However, the state has spent the past two decades restoring the picturesque, 73-mile highway piece by piece.
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Sen. Jeff Merkley called the project a win for Oregonians and the local economy.
“The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful and breathtaking landscapes in our country,” Merkley said. “The decades-long determination to restore the iconic Historic Columbia River Highway is a testament to the vision and tenacity of many Oregonians — a vision I share and continue to push to secure federal funding for along the way. When this marvelous project is complete, it will not only be a win for our recreation and economy, but the trail will fill Oregonians and visitors alike with wonder for generations to come.”
The ongoing restoration includes drivable segments of the highway and hiking and biking trails managed by Oregon State Parks. The final segment under construction includes a paved, 1.7-mile bicycle and pedestrian-only trail between Mitchell Point and Ruthton Trailhead in Hood River.
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The State of Oregon expects to complete the restoration project by 2027. When finished, the Columbia River Highway will serve as a “world-class bicycle and pedestrian experience” that’s expected to attract large numbers of visitors from around the world, lawmakers like Sen. Ron Wyden say.
“Oregonians have been seeking respite in the grandeur of the Columbia River Gorge for centuries,” Wyden said. “Blending the classic infrastructure of the Historic Columbia River Highway with a need for car-free exploration options gives Oregonians and visitors a safe path to experience one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders firsthand, creating positive personal and economic impacts. I will continue to support projects like this that improve livability for Oregonians now and generations to come.”
The $11 million in funding was awarded to the state by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration.
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