U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood Announces $3.2 Million in Quick Release Emergency Funds for Oregon

Topics:  Ray LaHood

U.S. Department of Transportation
June 23, 2010

DOT 125-10
Contact: Nancy Singer
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Phone: 202-366-0660

Funds Will Be Used for Forest Service Road Repairs in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Following Recent Floods

WASHINGTON - U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced today he is making $3.2 million in quick release emergency funds immediately available to the United States Forest Service (USFS) to repair Wallowa Mountain Loop Road in eastern Oregon, which was damaged by flooding in early June. The road experienced numerous severe washouts, including one 500-foot section that was completely washed away.

"The flooding in Oregon has severely disrupted transportation," said Secretary LaHood. "Emergency relief will allow repairs to take place more quickly and restore a sense of normalcy to communities in the area.”

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), USFS, the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon local agencies together identified 10 sites along the Wallowa Mountain Loop Road that will have the highest priority for repairs that must be completed by November 1 because of weather constraints.

FHWA will assist the state in reopening a part of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, a popular summer route between Halfway and Joseph, as soon as possible.

“We are making these emergency funds available quickly because it is a critical time to help repair the damage caused by the flooding and prevent more adverse economic impacts,” Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez said.

These 'quick release' emergency funds will ensure that agencies can start working on these important sites immediately. FHWA's emergency relief for federally owned roads program provides funds for the repair or reconstruction of federal roads and bridges damaged by natural disasters or catastrophic events.