New agreements with affected river users move the I-5 Bridge project closer to a fixed-span design, raising questions about whether 116 feet of clearance is the right solution
Oregon and Washington transportation officials have signed agreements with the four river users identified as impacted by the proposed 116-foot fixed-span I-5 Bridge replacement, clearing a major hurdle as the project heads to the U.S. Coast Guard for review. Supporters say the taller fixed span would eliminate the only “stoplight” on I-5 between Canada and Mexico, improve reliability, and avoid the higher construction and long-term maintenance costs associated with a movable bridge. The agreements — totaling $140 million, paid only if the Coast Guard approves the design and construction begins — are intended to address economic impacts to river users and demonstrate project readiness. With the Coast Guard’s decision expected in early 2026, this week’s poll asks: is a 116-foot fixed span the right choice for the I-5 replacement?
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Agreements reached with four river users identified as impacted by proposed I-5 Bridge replacement
- Goodbye, bumpy ride on I-5 in Vancouver
Three coordinated WSDOT projects will improve more than 6 miles of I-5 in Clark County, backed by a $25 million investment. - Nighttime work on I-5 between Ridgefield and Woodland will replace damaged concrete panels Sept. 14-19
Granite Construction will close right and center lanes nightly on I-5 between mileposts 9.5 and 21.5 through Sept. 19. - County seeks volunteers to serve on the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
Clark County seeks two volunteers, including one youth member, for its Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee; deadline is Oct. 11, 2026. - Washington Rep. John Ley warns ballooning bridge budget needs reality check
Rep. John Ley says the IBR ballooned from a $44M contract to a $13B–$15B project, with phase one still $2.2B short. - POLL: The IBR project is described as only 30% designed and 30% funded after more than six years of work. How confident are you in the current management of the IBR program?
IBR’s cost has climbed from $3.2–$4.8B to $15.2B while the project remains 30% designed and 30% funded.
