Funds Will Add Passing Lanes to U.S. Highway 26
Wyden, Smith Announce Funding For Central Oregon Transportation Project

June 11, 2003

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Senators Gordon Smith and Ron Wyden announced that a $1,123,389 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation will be used to begin adding passing lanes to U.S. Highway 26 within the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

“Improving the usability of our road ways promotes Oregon commerce and livability,” said Smith. “This project will make a traditionally slow-moving stretch of highway much more user friendly.”

“This funding paves the way to creating a safer, more convenient stretch of highway, while supporting family-wage construction jobs,” said Wyden.

U.S. Highway 26 is the primary connection between Portland and businesses and recreational opportunities in Central and Eastern Oregon. The project will add passing lanes within the Warm Springs Indian Reservation where there are currently none for 28 miles. The $3.8 million project will sustain nearly 160 jobs.

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