U.S. Rep. Greg Walden (R-Hood River) announced today that the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration has chosen the Port of Morrow for Marine Highway Designation.
The designation is a part of America’s Marine Highway Program and will enable the Port of Morrow to apply for federal funding for its project to extend its barge service. Walden said the project will lead to reduced transportation costs and decreased road and rail traffic. He added that it will also enable an increase in the freight shipments along Marine Highway 84, which runs along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.
“I am thrilled to hear that the Port of Morrow has received a Marine Highway Project Designation and can now compete for federal funding to expand barge and other services on the river,” said Walden. “The Columbia River system is a valuable asset for transporting wheat and other products from eastern Oregon to the world. I applaud the Port’s efforts to maximize this resource and I am glad to have worked so closely with them to pursue Marine Highway status. This designation, and the additional funding opportunities, will improve the Port’s capabilities while simultaneously increasing economic opportunity for the region. It will decrease traffic, reduce transportation costs, and bring additional jobs and growth to the area.”
