The replacement of the Interstate Bridge linking Washington and Oregon has received a significant financial boost from the US Federal Highway Administration's Bridge Investment Program. Reports indicate approximately $1.5 billion has been allocated, marking a crucial step forward for the project's initial phase.
According to the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (IBRP), the existing structure will be replaced with a modern, seismically resilient design that supports multiple modes of transportation.
This recent funding injection complements an earlier $600 million commitment from the US Department of Transportation earlier this year. With contributions totaling over $2 billion from federal agencies and $1 billion from each state, the project's funding surpasses $4 billion.
Overall, the Interstate Bridge replacement initiative is anticipated to exceed $6 billion. It aims to enhance highway capacities and connectivity on both sides of the Columbia River, benefiting communities in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon.
Pre-construction activities for the bridge replacement are poised to commence soon, although the program remains in the design phase. Six potential designs are under consideration, including four single-level concepts, a double-level scheme, and a movable steel girder concept.
While details on contractors and subcontractors are pending, major construction is slated to begin in 2026.
The current Interstate Bridge comprises twin steel vertical-lift Parker through-truss spans, constructed in 1917 and 1958, respectively, connecting the cities via a six-lane stretch of Interstate 5.
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