Daily Democrat - Thompson to tour port in West Sac today
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood will join Thompson, D-St. Helena. According to a news release from Thompson's office, the congressman and LaHood will see firsthand how transportation investment has increased Northern California's economic competitiveness and examine where future project funding opportunities may exist.
"If California is going to remain competitive in the long-term, we need to make serious investments in the roads, bridges, airports and ports that form the foundation of our economy," Thompson said. "Transportation infrastructure investment is a proven job creator and a key source of economic growth."
Thompson and LaHood will attend two events in West Sacramento, the first a visit to the California Fuel Cell Partnership's West Sacramento office to test drive a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle and receive a briefing from local energy experts. It will be from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at 3300 Industrial Blvd.
A tour of the Port of West Sacramento and briefing will follow from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. West Sacramento Mayor Christopher Cabaldon, Port Director Mike Luken, Yolo County Supervisor and Port Chairman Mike McGowan and other officials will join Thompson and LaHood for a tour of operations.
Since 2001, Thompson has helped secure more than $5.2 million in federal funding for the port, including a $30 million TIGER I grant to help develop a marine highway route between West Sacramento, Oakland and Stockton. When completed, the project will increase trade and commerce at the port while also decreasing congestion on local roads and highways.
Following Thompson and LaHood's stops in West Sacramento, they will travel to Napa County to visit two projects. The first is the "Yountville Mile," the first completed section of the Napa Valley Vine Trail Project. When completed, the trail system will connect the entire Napa Valley from the Vallejo Ferry Terminal to Calistoga.
Finally, Thompson and LaHood will tour operations at Napa County Airport before speaking at a ceremonial groundbreaking for the airport's new Glideslope Receiver System. Since 2003, Thompson has secured more than $1.5 million for the Glideslope, which will allow approaching pilots to land during periods of low visibility due to adverse weather conditions.