MATTHEW HINES TO SERVE ON EQUITY ADVISORY GROUP FOR I-5 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT
By: Nikki Palm
April 20, 2021
Vancouver, WA – It is with great enthusiasm that we announce that Activate Inclusion Co-founder, Matthew Hines, has been appointed to the Equity Advisory Group for the Bi-State Commission for the I-5 Bridge Replacement Project. This group is tasked with creating policies and measurable outcomes that reflect a diverse and equitable framework for the replacement of the I-5 bridge. These recommendations not only support the needs of our pedestrians with disabilities, but also to ensure that individual business owners with disabilities benefit from this project and have the same opportunity as our non-disabled peers, seeking to secure contracts through this extensive effort of improving infrastructure in our area.
“The I-5 bridge replacement is an essential generational infrastructure effort that we must undertake in our community to improve the transportation experience for motorists, pedestrians and those using active transport in the program area. Most importantly, our group will work to solve the looming issue of free mobility in the Portland and Vancouver Areas, which require upgrades in diverse types of transport as well as regional connectivity improvements. This is a generational opportunity to also elevate our local business owners with disabilities and support them in accessing contracts and employment related to the bridge replacement.”
If you would like to know more about the project or would like to find ways to get involved, we recommend visiting the IBR Website.
ABOUT IBR
Interstate 5 provides a critical connection between Oregon and Washington that supports local jobs and families, and is a vital trade route for regional, national and international economies. Beyond the concrete and steel of the existing bridge is a thriving background of scenic views, natural systems, and a rich history of our region’s national heritage.
We understand the vital link the bridge plays in connecting the region and the importance of the natural environment and health of our community. We are committed to finding a solution that will improve our transportation system, now and in the future.
The Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program is committed to centering equity in our processes and our outcomes. We are engaging the community by elevating the voices of underserved communities throughout our processes and ensuring these communities receive the program’s economic and transportation benefits. We also commit to not furthering harm to these communities.