The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe of Washington is backing an investigation into a state construction project that led to the discovery of a major tribal village.

The state spent $59 million at the site of the Tse-whit-zen village. The discovery of hundreds of remains and thousands of artifacts prompted the state to stop work there.

The state's decision has come under fire from leaders in the Port Angeles region. They want new Gov. Christine Gregoire (D) to reconsider reopening the project, which is part of a $280 million reconstruction of the Hood Canal Bridge. But Gregoire said that isn't an option.

Get the Story:
Lawmakers, tribe back probe of bridge project (AP 1/30)
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`Of course we believe in contracts,' says Lower Elwha chairwoman (The Peninsula Daily News 1/30)
State urged to resume Port Angeles project (AP 1/29)
Mayors', other officials' letter and memo critical of state abandoning graving yard (The Peninsula Daily News 1/28)
Governor not interested in trying to get graving yard restart in Port Angeles (The Peninsula Daily News 1/29)

Relevant Links:
Tse-Whit-Zen Village News - http://tse-whit-zen.elwha.nsn.us
Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe - http://www.elwha.org

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