Officials credit Rep. Miller‑Meeks with helping secure federal grant for Cascade Bridge

During reports to the board, Speaker 2 described a recent visit from U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller‑Meeks and credited her with helping advance federal legislation that, according to staff, will fund the Cascade Bridge project. Speaker 2 said the measure will deliver about $2,000,000 in grant funds (referred to on the record as a "W21" grant) and that the bill had been signed by the president, making the funding effectively secured pending administrative steps.

Board members discussed logistical constraints for historically significant bridges — including the potential need to move structures and the lengthy process related to historic preservation — and asked staff to monitor timing so the county can plan ribbon-cutting and construction schedules. Speaker 5 noted contractors may start late in the month or in early March and that staking and preliminary work would likely begin shortly, with substantial work possibly starting around March 17.

No formal action on the bridge project was taken at the meeting; board members expressed congratulations and asked staff to continue coordination with state and federal partners.