Oregon State Legislature allocates $1M for relocation of utility line

“The funding ensures that the city-owned electric utility can recover the substantial cost of moving critical distribution lines at ODOT’s request — work that must be finished before contractors begin dismantling and rebuilding the bridge later this summer.

“This investment protects our ratepayers and the city as a whole, and helps fund a regionally important transportation project,” said Mayor Brenda Wood. “Without the state’s help, a small community like Cascade Locks would shoulder relocation costs that exceed the electric utility’s capital budget, and a substantial portion of the city’s overall operating budget. HB 5006 turns that burden into an opportunity.”

ODOT is preparing to replace the aging structure near Warrendale to improve safety, seismic resilience and ride quality on I-84, Bennett said. The project benefits all users of I-84, a critical link for millions of travelers and commercial interests between East and West. Construction began this spring and will continue through fall 2026 (oregon.gov).

State Rep. Jeff Helfrich (HD 52) and State Sen. Daniel Bonham (SD 26) championed the request, Bennett said, which was passed through the Oregon Legislature’s Joint Ways and Means Committee, Subcommittee on Capital Construction. The bill required the support of co-chairs of the main committee and subcommittee, as well as House and Senate leadership.

“The city also appreciates the engagement of the Columbia River Gorge Congressional delegation,” Bennett said.

Project fast facts

• Amount: $1,000,000 General Fund

• Recipient: Oregon Department of Transportation

• Purpose: Reimburse Cascade Locks Municipal Electric for design, materials and construction needed to relocate 7.2-kV overhead and underground distribution lines that cross McCord Creek and the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.

• Timeline: Utility relocation Fall 2024; bridge replacement complete fall 2026.

• Benefit: Addresses substantial financial burden on the City of Cascade Locks, avoids rate increases for 1,200 local electric customers, and preserves safe, reliable power during construction and beyond. Harden City’s electric facilities.