Download letter (945k, PDF)
A request by a coalition of 13 advocacy groups that sought an extension to the comment period on the Draft Environment Impact Statement of the Columbia River Crossing project has been denied.
In a letter (download PDF here) from the U.S. Department of Transportation, to Tom Buechele of the Pacific Environmental Advocacy Group (he represented the 13 member coalition), representatives of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) wrote:
“The FTA and FHWA do not see “good cause” for extending the current comment period beyond the 60 days that are already being provided…
The…comment period is only one opportunity during the…process for the public…to review information and provide input… Project staff has also participated in over 450 meetings with neighborhood groups, business organizations and other potentially affected stakeholders, including a number of organizations that you have noted in your letter.”
The denial means that citizens have only until July 1st to review and make comments on the 5,000 page document.
Many concerned Portlanders plan to do just that tonight at the second of two CRC open house/public hearing events. Last night, Vancouver residents showed up to express their feedback, concerns, and support for the project.
Tonight, Portlanders get their chance to comment, ask questions of the CRC staff, and learn more about the project.
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CRC Draft EIS Public Hearing and Open House
Location: Portland Expo Center (2060 Marine Drive)
Open House – 5-8:00pm
Public Hearing – 6-8:00pm
Event will be held in Rooms D201 and D202-204.
Comments are also accepted online.