Port of Cascade Locks considers grants

They approved Bike the Gorge’s request for $17,297 to purchase a bike lane sweeper, with which to clear bike lanes and paths twice a month through 2025. Bike the Gorge’s application got the highest score, and the organization  will also host a community ride in the fall.

On the bridge

Work on seismic upgrades for Bridge of the Gods is mostly on schedule, David McCurry and Kelly Smith, who oversee the project, told commissioners. Only 4% of the budget is spent.

Besides the weather, a big problem is that the original plans for building and erecting the bridge have not been found. The project is still searching for them. Next steps may include underwater imaging of the bridge’s piers, electrical upgrades, field and water borings, and structural steel work.

Other news

Commissioners took steps to approve the Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s request for a toll waiver. While the Tribe never signed a treaty with the U.S., they are recognized by the U.S. federal government and the State of Washington. Commissioners moved to direct staff to draft a resolution waiving the toll for Cowlitz Indian Tribe members.

According to documents they submitted, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe has more than 1,400 members in southwestern Washington, with a historical territory stretching 60 miles out from the Cowlitz River. They never consented to leave this land and refused placement on a reservation through the late 1800s.

In 1904, the Tribe filed a claim against the federal government for taking its land without compensation. This case was not resolved until 1973, and the money was not disbursed until after 2000, when the Tribe got recognition from the state. In 1910, however, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe recognized itself by electing officers and a board of directors. Some members of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe live in Cascade Locks, and had asked their leaders to request the waiver.

Commissioners also approved their budget schedule for fiscal year 2025-26, and approved payroll in the amount of $38,154.18 and bills in the amount of $170,988.68.