As the mayor of Redmond and as a 45-year resident, I know how essential it is to have safe,  reliable transportation systems. Maintaining and expanding our transportation infrastructure is the foundation of our economy, emergency services, neighborhood safety, and daily life.  

The city is doing its part to keep the local streets smooth, clean, and safe. 

Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about our state-maintained highways. We have seen Highway 97 steadily deteriorate and we have seen the use of Highway 126 increase to the point that intersection safety improvements must occur. Investments in Highway 126 and Highway 97 must be made to preserve the health and prosperity of our community. 

In Salem, both the legislature and the leadership at the Oregon Department of Transportation must show they care about more than just the Portland metropolitan area and make investments in communities such as Redmond.  

Without action, highways 97 and 126 will continue to be safety liabilities and the weakest links in our transportation system. The Oregon legislature needs to act as leaders and take bold action on a transportation package known as the Oregon Transportation Reinvestment Package (TRIP-2025). 

The tools included in TRIP-2025 offer a responsible, forward-looking solution that returns to the basics. This initiative is designed to enhance safety, modernize infrastructure, and ensure that every community, large or small, shares the benefits of a stronger, more resilient transportation system.  

TRIP-2025 proposes 50% of the new revenue be shared with cities and counties for critical  operations and maintenance. That means every vehicle owner will see a return on investment in the form of improved local roads and services. 

Additionally, $250 million will be dedicated to long-promised infrastructure projects that boost regional economies and create family-wage construction jobs. A bipartisan oversight committee will also ensure the ODOT uses these funds wisely and transparently. 

Roads and highways go unnoticed until they fail. They are being noticed now! It’s time to bring forward the resources needed to actually support local economies and improve road safety for Central Oregonians.

— Ed Fitch is the mayor of Redmond.