Deschutes County Commissioner and Oregon Transportation Commission member Phil Chang, Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler, Bend City Councilor Steve Platt and clean transportation advocates gathered in Bend today (Tuesday, September 8) to spotlight how continuing investments in clean transportation would strengthen the City’s and County’s economy and create energy independence.
The event took place at the Haven Co-Working Space. It was part of the national Freedom to Drive summer event series focused on how clean cars, hybrids and EVs deliver cost savings and cleaner air to communities across the country and in Oregon.
With gasoline prices currently averaging nearly $4.90 a gallon, Bend residents are eager for relief from this spiraling financial burden. More fuel-efficient cars, coupled with hybrid and electric vehicles, represent a strategic leap towards a more affordable transportation option while bolstering American energy independence and resilience.
Speakers pointed to past federal funding which has encouraged the expansion of charging infrastructure in Deschutes County as an example of why continued federal funding for clean transportation is critical to a prosperous future.
With Congress currently debating transportation funding, speakers urged federal elected officials to stand up for our freedom to drive by supporting the country’s clean transportation system. Electric vehicles and clean transit offer consumer savings and the freedom to breathe cleaner air.
