I am writing to offer enthusiastic support for the Frog Ferry initiative and its mission to establish a clean, efficient, and accessible passenger ferry system to serve the Portland metropolitan area.
Throughout my 30-year career in environmental protection, including seven as the director of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with balancing economic development, public health and environmental stewardship. As Oregon’s urban and rural communities grow increasingly interconnected, the need for innovative, sustainable transportation solutions has never been greater.
Frog Ferry represents the kind of forward thinking that can address these challenges head on. By reducing road congestion, lowering carbon emissions and creating a new mode of accessible public transit along the Willamette River, Frog Ferry aligns with Oregon’s environmental values and transportation goals. Frog Ferry would benefit both people and the environment – leveraging collaboration, innovation and commitment to the common good.
I urge the Portland City Council and the Oregon Legislature to give Frog Ferry the serious consideration and support it deserves. It is an investment in our region’s future – one that honors Oregon’s legacy of environmental leadership and community-based problem solving.
Stephanie Hallock, Lake Oswego
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