As a consequence, our bond rating's are extremely good. And one of our primary criteria was that any package that's put together would not threaten our bond rating. We're convinced that this would not and does not. So we're supportive. If approved, the transportation money would be used to widen freeways and reinforce crumbling bridges, but it's too soon to say which specific projects would get money.
Supporters point to serious congestion in Washington County and Central Oregon.
John Jackley, with the Oregon Department of Transportation, says the commission in charge of the agency will hold a series of public meetings to decide which road and bridge projects get priority. And those bring the views of city governments, county governments, citizens, business interests, all kinds of stakeholders. And then under the bill, in it's current form, the Commission could have until next February to finalize a list of projects that would be worked on from this funding package. If it's approved by both chambers and signed by the governor, construction could begin next spring. The bill now heads for a vote on the floor of the House.