A delegation from the bi-state group working on replacement of the Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge will be going to Washington, D.C. soon to lobby federal officials for a $195 million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation that would be a cornerstone for funding the new bridge estimated to cost $500 million.  Hood River Mayor Kate McBride says they want to talk personally with the people who would make a difference in getting the money.  She adds the grant could accelerate the timeline for the project.  A conceptual finance plan would include the $195 million federal contribution, $110 million each from Oregon and Washington, and local Port contribution funded by tolls of $85 million.