Dear Members of the Oregon State Legislature,

Thank you for your service to the citizens of Oregon. We appreciate the sacrifice of time and resources that allows you to represent and work for the good of your constituents.

Thank you especially for the passage of ConnectOregon I and ConnectOregon II. This thoughtful legislation enhances the transportation infrastructure and simultaneously expands the economy of Oregon.

In 2004, the Port of Umatilla received the final installment of a $4.8 million federal appropriation for a newly manufactured single girder, torsion suspension, gantry crane. This crane replaced a piece of vintage equipment that was manufactured in 1940 and has been in service at two ports for 64 years. The crane was the first piece in a multiphase concept to create a fully intermodal upland distribution center at the convergence of Interstates 82 and 84, the Union Pacific Railroad, and the navigable waters of the Columbia River.

ConnectOregon I helped us become more safe and efficient in the movement of freight across our dock. It took freight from Oregon highways out of the Columbia River Gorge scenic area. It also alleviated some of the heavy freight congestion in the Portland metro area.

ConnectOregon II will help us continue with the second phase of our intermodal upland distribution center by expanding rail service into certified industrial lands within the McNary Industrial Park.

The Oregon Department of Transportation has been an excellent partner in the work we have accomplished thus far. They have our highest regard in terms of customer service and professionalism.

Please take some time to review the "before and after" photo gallery at this link. Also know that you are always welcome at the Port of Umatilla "Oregon's Premier Container Port," where we are working hard everyday to "Connect Oregon."

Kindest personal regards,

Kim B. Puzey
General Manager