Oregon Second District Congressman Greg Walden was in Hood River Friday to discuss with Port of Hood River officials the potential impacts of a proposal passed in the House this week to make transportation projects in national scenic areas eligible for federal grants.  Walden…who developed the proposal along with fellow Oregon Congressman Earl Blumenauer and Washington Congresswoman Jamie Herrera-Beutler…says a new fund created in the bill will be available to allow areas of “significant freight and other commerce” to access funds to help with transportation needs.  He notes it’s especially important for the Gorge’s bridge issues, which can become major choke points.  Port of Hood River officials had recently visited Washington, D.C. in support of the measure.