Excerpt's from Sen. Benton's opinion piece in the Columbian:
"The only real long-term solution to measurable congestion relief is a new corridor over the river, either from Camas to Troutdale or Ridgefield to St. Helens.
A third bridge would have a far greater impact on congestion and travel time and would save taxpayers in the long run. A replacement bridge will provide only minimal benefits, while putting us in the same position we are in now 10 years or less down the road.
I deeply regret that the Columbia River Crossing project is becoming a boondoggle. And if the plan finally approved includes light rail, then the process has been a total waste of time and precious taxpayer resources. I want to champion a solution that benefits our community, but I cannot support a $6 billion project that we know will not reduce congestion."
You can read the Columbian's editorial response here.
