"I fought to designate these universities as a National UTC because I know how important their work is here in Oregon and across the country," DeFazio said. "This funding will help address difficult transportation issues with innovative solutions. With Oregon's mounting transportation problems, like record-high truck traffic on I-5 and a $4.7 billion bridge problem on the interstate system, the grant will be particularly beneficial locally."

This grant, provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Research and Innovative Technology Administration, represents the first installment of the five-year National UTC designation. Nine other American universities were designated as National UTCs as part of SAFETEA-LU, which authorizes them to receive up to $16 million each over five years. The funds must be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis with non-federal funds.

"By training our next generation of transportation innovators and performing vital research, our university centers are critical partners in keeping Oregon and the entire nation moving safely and efficiently," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta.

The UTC program was created in 1988 to meet the nation's need for the safe, efficient and environmentally sound movement of people and goods through research, education and technology transfer. Participating universities are involved in a variety of advanced and applied research ranging from intelligent transportation systems and fuel-efficient vehicle deployment to innovations that will improve passenger safety and reduce traffic and freight congestion. National UTCs are expected to provide national leadership in advancing research and technology solutions to America's transportation challenges.