Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority Welcomes New 2026-2028 Co-Chairs
The Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Project is pleased to announce that Eric Wilson and Grant Polson have been selected to serve as Co-Chairs of the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority for the 2026 to 2028 term. Their leadership continues the Authority's steady work as the project advances toward key milestones that will bring the replacement bridge closer to construction.
Both Wilson and Polson offer deep experience, strong community ties, and a shared commitment to a safer and more reliable connection between Oregon and Washington. Their combined backgrounds in civic leadership, small business, architecture, and large-scale project delivery will help guide the project as planning and implementation move forward.
About Co-Chair Eric Wilson
Portrait of Eric Wilson, Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority Co-Chair
Eric Wilson brings a design driven and community focused perspective to his role as Co-Chair of the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority. A private-practice architect with more than 30 years of experience delivering large institutional projects for colleges and universities, Wilson offers deep knowledge of design and construction processes and how complex projects move from vision to reality.
As a Klickitat County resident, Wilson is closely connected to the daily role the bridge plays in local life and regional mobility. His architectural career has centered on planning durable, long-lasting facilities that serve communities well into the future, a perspective that aligns with the project’s goals for safety, function, and stewardship.
He is motivated by the bridge’s essential role in everyday life, local businesses, and regional connection, and is proud to help guide a locally driven project grounded in community partnership and long-term responsibility.
Meet Eric: https://hrwsba.gov/bio-wilson
About Co-Chair Grant Polson
Portrait of Grant Polson, Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority Co-Chair
Grant Polson brings a strong civic and small business perspective to his role as Co-Chair of the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority. A Hood River City Councilor, longtime community volunteer, and owner of the Westcliff Lodge, Polson offers deep insight into local economic vitality and public finance, informed by years of service on the City of Hood River’s budget committee and as president of the local chamber of commerce.
In addition to his leadership roles, Polson understands the daily importance of the existing bridge for workers, families, and visitors. His background in public service and business ownership gives him a well-rounded perspective on how the new bridge must support local needs and long-term regional growth.
He is committed to ensuring the new bridge serves the community as a whole, supporting multimodal travel, regional commerce, and long-term stewardship while strengthening connections between Oregon and Washington for generations to come.
Meet Grant: https://hrwsba.gov/bio-polson
Looking Ahead
With the appointment of Polson and Wilson, the project is well positioned to advance toward upcoming milestones, including ongoing federal coordination, continued public engagement, and preparation activities needed to ready the project for construction.
We also extend our sincere appreciation to Mike Fox and Jake Anderson for their dedicated leadership as outgoing Co-Chairs.
To learn more about the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority, visit: https://hrwsba.gov/