03 OctCVEC Quarterly Meeting Welcomes Governor Otter

The Central Valley Expressway Coalition held its Fall Quarterly Meeting on Tuesday, October 2nd, 2012, with Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter as keynote speaker.  The Governor was enthusiastically welcomed by approximately 60 attendees who turned out to hear the Governor speak of Idaho’s transportation needs and the challenges the state faces looking forward.  He was followed by Canyon County Commissioner David Ferdinand, who addressed the importance of infrastructure and industry within the area and the achievements Canyon County has enjoyed.  Sorrento-Lactalis Mozzarella Plant Manager, Lenny Bass, gave an overview of the cheese company’s history and operations, as well as why they chose Idaho, while emphasizing the importance of infrastructure in the transportation of product.  Senator Chuck Winder (R-14) then gave a legislative update and forecast regarding transportation funding, as well as some funding options likely to be considered in the next legislative session.  Finally, Connecting Idaho Partners Deputy Program Manager Dick Jacobson gave a project update on the construction of the first phase of the Central Valley Expressway: Boise River Crossing.

The Central Valley Expressway Coalition’s next quarterly meeting will be held in January 2013.