Infrastructure: Think Big

The Oregon Shipping Group encourages Oregonians to take a good look at the state’s infrastructure needs. While we emphasize the need to move freight, we recognize this is part of an overall system of transportation.

President Donald Trump has emphasized the need to rebuild existing infrastructure, and build new infrastructure, throughout the nation. President Trump is not just talking about highways. He is talking about rail, airport, and maritime infrastructure.

With this in mind, we set aside debates about the federal debt limit and federal deficit. These are matters which need to be addressed by the President and the Congress. But we realize that, one way or another, there is going to be substantial federal encouragement and support for infrastructure projects.

This is where Oregon needs to be bold and visionary as to our status as a large west coast state with extraordinary connection capabilities but limited facilities.

We encourage readers of this newsletter to think about the many things Oregon could and should do to enhance transportation infrastructure because our state is heavily dependent upon exports to other states as well as the world. We need to enhance the connections of our 24 short line railroads, our barge capability, expansion of existing highways, development of good alternative highway routes, and development of our ports.

We will be involved in the infrastructure development issue because there is a great opportunity here to take steps which will provide major benefits to Oregonians for decades to come.

We welcome your suggestions as to infrastructure projects which deserve support.