Federal Approval Clears Way for I‑5 Bridge Replacement in Pacific Northwest

The Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) Program received an amended Record of Decision from the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration on July 1, completing the National Environmental Policy Act review. The approval allows Washington and Oregon to begin contractor selection and secure permits for a new Interstate 5 bridge over the Columbia River, replacing the aging structures dating from 1917 and 1958.

The existing bridge carries more than 140,000 vehicles and $132 million in goods daily and is considered vulnerable to seismic failure. Officials say the new bridge will improve safety, mobility and freight reliability while supporting thousands of jobs. The program will now focus on procurement, permitting and funding to move toward construction.