State Rep. Kevin Mannix (R-Dist. 21) is sponsoring a bill—House Bill 2137, to form a Willamette River Task force to bring together regional stakeholders to evaluate strategies for financing and constructing a bridge across the Willamette River, north of Keizer.
This potential bridge is a regional issue, as it would connect the mid-Willamette Valley. It would provide a shorter and more convenient route between the agricultural communities of McMinnville, Newberg and Dayton on the east side of the river to Interstate 5 and state highways. It would also provide another route to connect communities on the west side of the river to the Oregon coast.
A hearing was held earlier in February by the Joint Committee on Transportation. Several people testified in support of the bill including Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell on behalf of the Marion County Commissioners. Thirty four people submitted written testimony supporting the bill.
For more information about HB 2137, visit olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2023R1/Measures/Overview/HB2137.