The I-5 bridge replacement project, which aims to replace the bridge linking Portland and Vancouver, has been mired in controversy for over a decade. One of the main points of contention is the inclusion of light rail, which is estimated to cost $2 billion of the $14 billion project. However, some experts argue that the cost of light rail may be severely underestimated and could comprise a much larger share of the total budget than projected.

Questioning the Need for Rail

The cost of light rail is not the only issue with the project. The need for rail on the project at all is also being questioned, given the plummeting rail and transit ridership in Portland and Vancouver. The Mountain States Policy Center has pointed out that the push for rail seems to be about bolstering floundering transit agencies struggling for relevancy and money, rather than moving more people.

Despite the controversy, officials at the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program are looking to move forward with Phase 1 of the project, which includes a $5.9 billion freeway replacement with auxiliary lanes and shoulders and connections to other key highways and arterials. The project is estimated to be open to traffic by 2035, with full Phase 1 completion by 2039. However, Phase 1 does not include building light rail, but instead includes the capacity for its future inclusion.

Focus on Moving Vehicles and Commerce

While many travelers want to see a successful replacement for the old interstate bridge, the replacement should focus on moving more vehicles and commerce between states, as drivers are paying the full cost. The new bridge should prioritize transportation capacity to move the most people through a corridor in the quickest, safest manner. However, the proposed bridge includes variable tolls that change by time of day, which could reduce the demand for the bridge and make it less effective.

Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.