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:
- Opinion: Neighbors for a Better Crossing calls for a current seismic study for $7.5 Billion Interstate Bridge project
Neighbors for a Better Crossing is urging a new seismic study before construction proceeds on the $7.5 billion IBR project, raising transparency concerns and proposing an immersed tube tunnel alternative. - Rep. John Ley supports C-TRAN Bus Rapid Transit to save Washington moneyRep. John Ley praised C-TRAN’s new BRT line as a faster, lower-cost alternative to light rail, urging support for transit options that save taxpayers money and improve service.
- C-TRAN, WSU Vancouver celebrates groundbreaking for The Vine on Highway 99C-TRAN and WSU Vancouver broke ground on the Vine’s Highway 99 route, a 9-mile bus rapid transit line connecting the university to downtown Vancouver and the Waterfront, set to open in 2027.
- C-TRAN board again postpones vote on light rail operations and maintenance costs
The C-TRAN board again postponed a vote on language regarding operations and maintenance costs tied to light rail expansion, with pending lawsuits involving Michelle Belkot continuing to impact board actions. - Opinion: ‘The Interstate Bridge project lacks billions in funding from both Oregon and Washington’Lars Larson criticizes Oregon’s funding decisions, highlighting the billions missing from both states for the Interstate Bridge replacement project and calling it a dead-end effort lacking Coast Guard approval.
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.