HR Council to vote on May Street Sidewalk Funding on June 9

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Jun 6

Cracks in the supports are visible in the May Street elevated sidewalk above. HR Council will vote on whether to take $2-million loan to repair the aged structure on June 9.

The Dalles, Ore., June 6, 2025 — The Hood River City Council will consider authorizing a $2 million loan from the Oregon Transportation Infrastructure Bank (OTIB) to help fund the long-awaited replacement of the May Street elevated sidewalk during its regular meeting Monday, June 9, at 6 p.m.

The project, initially estimated at $2.08 million when approved for state funding in 2019, has since ballooned to $3.7 million. Design and right-of-way work are now complete, and construction is set to begin June 10. The proposed loan—secured by the city's full faith and credit—would cover a portion of the city's $2.2 million share, with an interest rate of 3.47% over 20 years.

The May Street sidewalk was originally built in 1945 to navigate steep terrain between 13th Street and Katie’s Lane. Federal and state funds will provide $1.5 million toward the replacement, with the balance coming from city sources including the proposed OTIB loan.

Councilors will vote on Resolution 2025-14, authorizing the City Manager to finalize the loan agreement.

Waiver of First Friday fees

Council will also consider a fee waiver request from Visit Hood River, the Chamber of Commerce’s tourism arm, to waive $2,643 in fees for First Friday street closures this summer. The events, which feature cultural themes in June, August and September, are free to the public and vendors. City staff estimate public works labor alone for the events will cost around $1,250.

Presentations

The meeting will include two scheduled presentations:

“Somos Inmigrantes” Proclamation: Mayor Paul Blackburn will issue a proclamation reaffirming the city’s commitment to inclusion and support of immigrant communities, urging residents and businesses to display “Somos Inmigrantes” signs.
Budget Overview: Finance Director Chris Longinetti will present the finalized FY2025-26 budget before council votes on adoption.