It’s rare to see an interstate bridge empty of cars. It’s an even more unusual to see people, children and dogs strolling across one at a leisurely pace. Yet this is exactly what happened.
But first, we heard interesting and informative speeches from federal, state and local officials.
U.S. Rep. DeFazio looked to the future of the Willamette River Bridge project. “When this bridge is complete, it will facilitate the movement of the next four to five generations of I-5 users,” said DeFazio. “That’s a great achievement.” He also praised the large number of jobs that this project has created. State Rep. Terry Beyer expanded on this point, highlighting the economic benefits throughout the state.
While they couldn’t be here in person, U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley sent written statements read during the ceremony.
Springfield Mayor Christine Lundberg and Eugene Councilor Alan Zelenka talked about the benefits of the project they are already seeing both in the parks and in the local economy.
Esther Stutzman, representative of the Kalapuya tribe, led her daughters in a welcome song. She then talked about the significance of this area to the Kalapuya, the Native Americans who have lived in this stretch of the Willamette Valley for more than 10,000 years.
David Lewis, a representative of the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, talked about the design enhancements. “I’m so happy I’ve been able to contribute to bringing back the spirit of our people to this place,” he said. “This project is giving us the opportunity to share the legacy of our ancestors.”
Esther Stutzman leads her daugthers in a Kalapuya welcome song.
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The tour of the new bridge. |
