Independent panel backs Columbia River Crossing
An independent panel charged with studying the Columbia River Crossing has told Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski and Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire that construction should begin on the project as soon as possible.
The Independent Review Panel, assembled earlier this year after the governors raised questions over bridge design and funding, also offered recommendations that could provide a “roadmap” to help move from the bridge’s design to completion.
The recommendations include resolving several issues regarding interchanges leading to and from Hayden Island. The report also provided technical analysis of the currently proposed bridge type.
“This report delivered what we needed – a status report on this critical transportation project from an independent panel of national experts, as well as guidance on how best to advance the project in a timely, fiscally and environmentally responsible manner,” said Kulongoski in a statement.
The recommendation comes two days after the Metro regional government released a study about the impact of bridge tolls on growth in Portland and Southwest Washington. The study concluded that a $2 rush-hour toll on an expanded bridge would have negligible impact on population and employment growth in Clark County, but could boost jobs in North Portland.
The Columbia River Crossing project would expand the existing bridge to 10-to-12 lanes and include a light rail line and tolls. The bridge is expected to cost about $3.6 billion.