Bob Ortblad predicts the IBR will probably withhold its new estimate until the end of the Washington state legislative session
Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the author alone and may not reflect the editorial position of ClarkCountyToday.com
The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (IBR) team has promised a new official estimate by the end of March. Thanks to economist Joe Cortright’s public disclosure request, it is no secret that the IBR has been hiding an estimate of about $13.6 billion, twice the 2023 estimate. The IBR will probably withhold its new estimate until the end of the Washington state legislative session.
With only $5.5 billion, the IBR plans to start construction without full funding and call it a “construction sequencing and funding strategy.” The IBR has defined over two dozen construction packages that require 70 years of construction if done sequentially. The IBR must present a new schedule with its updated estimate. Will construction take 25 to 50 years?
“And by getting started, that’s the way to help manage the costs.” — WSDOT Secretary Julie Meredith
“Start digging a hole and make it so big, there’s no alternative to coming up with the money to fill it in…” — Former Mayor of San Francisco Willie Brown
Bob Ortblad MSCE, MBA
Seattle
Also read:
- Opinion: ‘A more responsible approach must be sought’
Ken Vance argues a $10 billion funding gap makes the phased I-5 Bridge approach fiscally reckless, not responsible. - ‘Light rail to nowhere’? Surging costs undercut I-5 bridge transit plan
Vancouver’s promised light rail extension to Library Square has no timeline, and the waterfront station would sit 90 feet above ground. - Washington, Oregon transportation commissions to discuss Interstate 5 bridge tolling
Washington and Oregon commissions will jointly review I-5 bridge toll rate options and discount analysis on June 5. - County Public Works reminds residents to secure loads before hauling, to reduce dangerous roadside debris and litter
Unsecured vehicle loads cause more than 300 Washington crashes annually and dumped 150,000+ lbs of litter in Clark County in 2025. - Weekend paving work closes southbound I-205 entrance from I-5 in Vancouver May 29-31
Crews will use a smart work zone system with zipper merging to reduce delays during the I-205 closure.
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