(Washington, D.C) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that she has included $2.7 million in funding for Olympic Peninsula transportation and community development projects in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill. Senator Murray is the Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee.
Among the projects that Murray included funding for in the bill is the Northwest Maritime Center. The bill includes $450,000 that will support the efforts of the city of Port Townsend and the Northwest Maritime Center to redevelop the former Thomas Oil Brownfield site. This initiative is aimed at revitalizing Port Townsend’s National Landmark Historic District and creating new economic, tourist, educational, and recreational opportunities. Senator Murray has previously secured $250,000 for this project.
"I am so pleased to continue to support building this state-of-the-art facility in Port Townsend," said Senator Murray. "The Northwest Maritime Center will provide hands-on educational programs, a history of our region’s maritime heritage and programs that will promote the maritime trades. Together with the revitalization of the downtown streetscape and the reopening of the Hudson Point Marina, this project is helping build Port Townsend’s reputation as a first-class place to visit, open a business, and raise a family."
"Senator Murray has been a champion of the Northwest Maritime Center since the beginning," said Stan Cummings, Ph.D., Executive Director Northwest Maritime Center. "She has always recognized the special role we play in providing a gateway into the marine trades for youth mentoring and apprenticeship programs. Her support, in the form of the $450,000 appropriation, is critical right now as we push to complete the funding for the new maritime center in Port Townsend."
Other important projects funded by Senator Murray in Olympic Peninsula include:
Port Angeles International Gateway Project — $500,000
The funding secured by Senator Murray for Clallam Transit will help support the development of a multi-modal facility, public plaza, visitor center, park and ride and parking facility in downtown Port Angeles. This facility will be the downtown hub for transit buses, taxis, bicyclists, pedestrians, ferry passengers, and tourists. Senator Murray has previously secured more than $4 million for this project.
"I am pleased to help support Port Angeles’ vision for a central, accessible transportation center to serve local residents," said Senator Murray.
“The International Gateway project is the cornerstone of our downtown. It is more than just a transportation center; it is our community plaza – a gathering place," said Port Angeles Mayor Karen Rogers. "Thank you to Senator Murray for her continued support of our Gateway Project. With this final $500,000 appropriation, Senator Murray has delivered $4.5 million dollars toward the development of this critical, priority project. She truly supports PA and is a real partner making community projects happen.”
Clallam Co., Olympic Discovery Trail Elwha River Pedestrian Bridge — $575,000
This funding will support the pedestrian crossing component of a new bridge across the Elwha River in Clallam County. The pedestrian crossing will be below the deck of a new highway bridge connecting the historic crossing of the 1915 Seattle and North Coast Railway to US-101. The pedestrian bridge will provide a link between the eastern and western halves of the Olympic Discovery Trail.
Jefferson Transit Vehicle Replacement — $500,000
This funding will enable Jefferson Transit to purchase 3 new vehicles to support rural mobility needs.
Mason Transit Vehicle Replacement — $400,000
This funding will allow Mason Transit to purchase new vehicles to support rural mobility needs.
Clallam Transit Vehicle Replacement — $280,000
This funding will enable Clallam Transit to purchase new vehicles to support rural mobility needs. Senator Murray secured $400,000 for Clallam Transit in previous years year.
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