WA Lawmaker Challenges Portland-Vancouver I-5 Bridge Replacement Design

Washington state Rep. Jim Ley is questioning the design, cost and environmental review process for the proposed Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement connecting Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. Ley argues that the proposed bridge's 116-foot navigation clearance is unnecessarily restrictive and questions whether plans to extend light rail from Portland to Vancouver are influencing the bridge's design. The Washington lawmaker says a taller bridge could be built within the existing project footprint. He cites an architect's alternative concept with up to 144 feet of clearance that the architect believes could cost approximately $3 billion to $4 billion. Ley also welcomes additional scrutiny of the project's environmental review, alleging that concerns raised by Hayden Island residents and communities in Clark County and Southwest Washington were not adequately addressed. He says ongoing litigation could potentially affect the project's anticipated 2028 construction start, although he acknowledges that the timing remains uncertain. The debate raises questions about Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement costs, Columbia River navigation clearance, Portland-to-Vancouver light rail, environmental impacts and taxpayer accountability. Subscribe to The Center Square for more coverage of Washington transportation, infrastructure spending, government accountability and the Interstate Bridge Replacement project. #I5Bridge #JimLey #WashingtonState #Portland #VancouverWA #Infrastructure #TaxpayerAccountability