Oregon’s stimulus spending sparks debate

Government officials, groups disagree on transportation construction projects

Justin Carinci
Daily Journal of Commerce
July 1, 2009

When Vice President Joe Biden and U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood praised Oregon for starting federal stimulus projects ahead of schedule, they singled out the Highway 97 project in Deschutes County. That $15.5 million project will widen the highway and create an interchange to get cars on and off the highway easier.

It’s a great example for two different groups, and for opposite reasons. State and federal officials say the project will improve safety, reduce congestion and put people to work. But some planning and conservation groups call the project an unnecessary road expansion at a time when other roads need repair and people need public transportation.

Bill to cut carbon emissions from gasoline, diesel fuel, gains approval

Scott Learn
The Oregonian
June 26, 2009

Oregon's Legislature passed one of its most-contested environmental bills Thursday, allowing regulators to adopt a requirement to cut the carbon content of fuel in cars and trucks by 10 percent come 2020, handing Gov. Ted Kulongoski what could be his biggest green victory this session.

State should protect Metolius River Basin

Blocking development could save its economic viability

Editorial
Statesman Journal
June 18, 2009

The Metolius is a special place for Oregonians. It deserves better treatment than it has received from Oregon legislators.

The Oregon House this week narrowly rejected greater environmental protections for the Metolius River Basin.