The advisory groups will play a role in helping the program define a replacement bridge solution
The Bi-state Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (IBRP) has extended the time for citizens to volunteer for one of two community advisory groups until Dec. 27. This is happening in response to a letter from Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler and input from Oregon and Washington legislators at their Tuesday meeting.
Each of the two committees will have 30 members. The Community Advisory Group (CAG) and the Equity Advisory Group (EAG) will advise the Executive Steering Group. These advisory groups will play a role in helping the program define a replacement bridge solution that prioritizes safety, reflects community values, centers on equity, and fosters broad regional support, according to the IBRP staff.
Online applications in English, Spanish, Somali, Korean, Vietnamese, Chinese and Russian will be available at the following links through Dec. 27:
The Executive Steering Group encourages individuals with diverse backgrounds to apply to serve on either advisory group. “Representation from those who experience transportation barriers firsthand, regularly use the Interstate Bridge, or will be potentially affected by the program is desired, as are community members who are passionate about social equity and transportation equity issues,” according to the IBRP.
The advisory groups are part of a comprehensive effort to actively engage with the public, elected officials, stakeholders, and partnering agencies from both states to build consensus through an open and public process. The first meetings for both groups will occur in early 2021.
The CAG will develop recommendations to shape program work that reflects the community’s needs, issues and priorities. The EAG will make recommendations regarding processes, policies, and decisions on program work that has the potential to affect historically underrepresented and/or underserved communities.
According to the IBRP, each group will consist of approximately 30 members, acting as individual community members or as representatives of organizations. Approximately eight at-large members for the CAG and approximately 10 at-large members for the EAG will be selected through the application process. The remainder of the representatives in both groups will be appointed by a selection committee in coordination with agency partners.
Additional information about the advisory groups and application process can be found on the Interstate Bridge Replacement program page.
For more information, or to request a printed application, please call (360) 905-1560 or send an email to info@interstatebridge.org.
