Here we go — CRC 2.0. Light rail across the Columbia River seems to be one of the major stumbling blocks to reaching consensus on a new Interstate 5 Bridge design. I will admit that I do not have a complete grasp of all the alternative solutions, however, one proposed alternative is a third bridge. But wait, what about replacing the existing third bridge?
The Burlington Northern Railroad Bridge 9.6 was opened in 1908. It crosses the Columbia downstream from the I-5 Bridge and I expect it is as vulnerable to earthquakes and shipping accidents as the I-5 Bridge. Build a new I-5 Bridge without light rail and replace the railroad bridge with a new bridge to carry light and heavy rail traffic.
There are several advantages. A light rail connection crossing the river farther downstream would make it easier to provide service to the highly touted waterfront development project. A separate auto and light rail solution will simplify the I-5 Bridge design and deflect some of the political objections. A new railroad bridge will provide a safer and more resilient infrastructure to carry both light and heavy rail service between Portland and Vancouver.
