Oregon – Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden have announced a sizable federal grant worth more than $6 million meant to transform Old Pacific Highway 99 in Douglas County. Part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s RAISE program, this grant will support the planning and construction of necessary improvements to increase traffic efficiency, safety, and accessibility along the historic route.
Based on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the money is allocated to two main initiatives aiming at changing the transportation system of the region.
“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, over $6 million in RAISE grants will be leveraged to map out ways to modernize Old Pacific Highway 99 into a more accessible, efficient, and safe route for Oregonians in Douglas County and beyond,” said Senator Merkley. “I’ll keep pushing for federal investments like these that reimagine our transportation systems and keep Oregonians in every corner of the state moving forward.”

Senator Wyden also highlighted the significance of these upgrades for local residents and all who travel through Douglas County.
“Douglas County residents and all motorists driving Old Pacific Highway 99 deserve the safest and smoothest travel along this route,” Wyden said. “I’m glad the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I worked to pass has generated this important investment for our state, and I’ll continue pressing to ensure this landmark law keeps delivering similar benefits for all of Oregon.”
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The allocated funds will be distributed between two primary projects:
- Tri-City Myrtle Creek Community Connection and Mobility Enhancement Project: This project, receiving $3,541,387, will focus on the stretch between Riverside Drive and Gael Lane. Plans include analyzing and potentially redesigning speed zones, stormwater management systems, and pedestrian crossings. Additionally, improvements are expected in lighting, signage, and transit stops to boost overall safety and accessibility.
- Sutherlin Old Highway 99 Modernization and Mobility Enhancement Project: With an allocation of $2,486,486, this initiative aims to introduce multi-modal improvements along another segment of Old Pacific Highway 99. The project will cover a comprehensive range of activities from environmental analysis and community engagement to safety evaluations and infrastructure design, setting the stage for future construction efforts.
“We are incredibly grateful to receive these two RAISE grants, which will allow us to plan for critical improvements to Old Pacific Highway 99, enhancing safety, accessibility, and sustainability for our communities. With over $6 million in funding, these projects will not only focus on infrastructure upgrades, such as speed zones, pedestrian crossings, and lighting, but will also include vital community engagement,” said Tom Kress, Douglas County Commissioner.
The money will allow Douglas County to engage in comprehensive planning and design stages, so guaranteeing that the future changes will efficiently meet the needs of a wide spectrum of road users, including walkers, bicycles, drivers, and transit riders.
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By building a more linked and sustainable transportation system, this project is considered as a strategic one meant to support economic development and enhance the daily lives of Douglas County’s residents.