VANCOUVER, Wash. — Wednesday marked a historic and monumental step toward replacement of the Interstate 5 bridge across the Columbia River with the completion of a federal environmental review.
The review, formally called the Amended Record of Decision, represented a major hurdle standing in the way of replacing the century-old bridge with a modern crossing that will improve safety, mobility, and economic opportunity for the entire region.
“I first ran for office because I believed our region deserved a safe, reliable, and modern interstate bridge,” said Sen. Annette Cleveland, who has represented the 49th Legislative District since 2013. “Throughout my time in the Legislature, advancing this project has remained one of my highest priorities. Today’s announcement is a monumental achievement and a testament to what can happen when we work together and stay focused on solving problems.
“This milestone is the culmination of years of collaboration, difficult conversations, and meaningful compromise among local, state, federal, and community partners committed to finding a way forward for the people we represent.”
While today’s action represents significant progress, Cleveland emphasized that important work remains to ensure the final bridge design and construction will meet transportation, economic, safety, and environmental needs of the region for generations to come.
Cleveland also thanked Governor Bob Ferguson for his leadership and expressed appreciation to the Southwest Washington legislative delegation, as well as legislative partners from Oregon and members of the Bi-State Legislative I-5 Bridge Committee.
“This milestone belongs to everyone who has remained committed to delivering the bridge our communities deserve,” Cleveland said. “I’m eager to continue this journey with this wonderful team and excited to see what we’ll accomplish for our communities as we continue to move forward together.”
The next big step for this project is to continue the design of the bridge. For more information and additional next steps on the bridge replacement project, click here.
