Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski is traveling to several parts of the state Thursday to tout his transportation plan. As Andrew Theen reports, the governor started on 82nd Avenue in Portland to highlight safety.

Kulongoski, Portland Mayor-elect Sam Adams, and State Senator Rick Metsger struggled to speak over the rush of nearby traffic.

Kulongoski said 82nd Avenue is one of the most dangerous roads in the state for pedestrians.  He said improving it takes teamwork.

Ted Kulongoski: "To leverage local, state, and federal funds to turn these plans into projects and expedite improvements along the 82nd avenue corridor."

Kulongoski said he will present a comprehensive transportation package to the legislature in January that is "green" and addresses infrastructure across the state.

State Senator Rick Metsger said that, combined with a new federal transportation bill coming next year, Oregon has a "perfect storm" opportunity to improve roads and bridges.