Following is the text of Wednesday’s letter from Gov. Christine Gregoire to Port Angeles Mayor Richard Headrick:

Dear Mayor Headrick:

Thank you for writing. I appreciate your community’s strong concerns over the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) recent determination that it cannot proceed with the graving dock project.

I know you are aware of how the situation has evolved and that, along with the public, you have been apprised by DOT staff of the factors leading to this difficult choice.

I have requested the Transportation Commission to evaluate why the archaeological assessment failed to identify that human remains and extensive artifacts were on site.

I also requested that the secretary and some DOT commission members visit your community to hear concerns and provide answers to questions. I’m very appreciative that this was done through meetings with DOT and Port Angeles residents on Feb. 2 and 14.

I think we all can agree that replacing the east half of the Hood Canal Bridge is an overarching priority. As DOT begins its new site selection process, I have requested that the utmost consideration be given to locating the new graving dock facility on the Olympic Peninsula if possible.

Economic development is a foremost priority of my administration and I know it is important particularly in the Port Angeles area. I look forward to working with you, your community and legislators to make it happen.

Sincerely,

Christine O. Gregoire

Governor