In his recent opinion column, Clark County Today Editor Ken Vance takes a critical look at the $7.5 billion I-5 Bridge replacement project, raising key concerns about its impact and effectiveness. Many in the community question whether the current plan will truly reduce traffic congestion, while others believe the high cost is unjustified. The inclusion of TriMet’s light rail into Vancouver remains a controversial element, and some argue that a third Columbia River crossing would be a better long-term solution.
As the debate continues, we want to hear from you! What do you think is the biggest issue with the current plan? Vote in this week’s poll and make your voice heard!
More info:
Opinion: Hope for those of us looking for common sense on I-5 Bridge replacement project
Ken Vance discusses growing opposition to the $7.5 billion I-5 Bridge replacement project, highlighting concerns over tolling, traffic congestion, and funding priorities.
Read more
Also read:
- Letter: Has $450 million been wasted on a bridge that’s too low for the Coast Guard with a foundation too costly to build?
A Seattle engineer questions whether hundreds of millions of dollars have been spent on a bridge design he argues is unnecessarily risky and costly compared to an immersed tunnel alternative. - Opinion: Transit agencies need accountability not increased state subsidy
Charles Prestrud argues that Washington transit agencies face rising costs and declining ridership due to governance structures that lack public accountability. - Opinion: Does tailgating cause speeding?
Target Zero Manager Doug Dahl examines whether tailgating contributes to speeding and explains why following too closely increases crash risk with little benefit. - Free fares on New Year’s Eve is a big hit with C-TRAN riders
C-TRAN’s New Year’s Eve free-fare program provided extended late-night service and a safe transportation option for riders across Clark County just after midnight. - Four Western WA counties granted $6.6M in federal funds for road safety programs
Four Western Washington counties will receive $6.6 million in federal funding for road safety projects, including an EMS pilot program in Clark County.
All of the above….
Absolutely…. all of the above.
Indeed, you should have included an “all of the above” choice for this poll. Each and every one of the suggestions show that this is a bridge that shouldn’t be built. Too few lanes (and Portland/Oregon will not widen freeways through Portland). TriMet rail is a total waste of money. Trolley Cars will never provide any reasonable transportation in Clark County — it’s much cheaper to use busses (and they’re not being used as they once were). A third bridge with a bypass to the west of Portland would make the most sense.
the residents of clark county do not need portlands busses and light rail. in my opinion it’s a boondoggle to help trimet. i’m old enough to realize i’ll never see the new bridge but that doesn’t mean my children and grandchildren should have to foot the bill for portlands “mass transit”. yes we need the new bridge but not light rail.
I don’t trust the state of Oregon to not use Washington commuters as their cash cow. They already do by making those who work in Oregon pay income tax, and adding various other taxes for PLO, homeless, preschool, transit taxes etc. Taxation without representation and no accountability for where all that money goes. As people move out of Oregon due to cost of housing, crime and school issues, it will only make things worse. The cost will be so much more to address issues that come up, the lack of transparency, and lack of plans to address congestion etc……I just don’t trust Oregon with how they manage their budget.