The Port of Hood River’s request for funding to help with planning for replacement of the Hood River Interstate Bridge will be the subject of a hearing in the Oregon Legislature this week.  Port Executive Director Michael McElwee says they are hoping to be included in a transportation package in this legislative session, adding they are cautiously optimistic about receiving their five million dollar request.  Planning work would take two to two-and-a-half years, but would also leave them in concept within 18 months of construction of a new bridge.  In turn that would put the Port in a better position to receive a significant commitment of federal dollars.