VANCOUVER, Wash. (AP) — Planners say they’ve shaved $100 million off the cost of a new bridge across the Columbia River, thanks to using a simpler bridge design and other factors
Still, the project is expected to run between $3.1 billion and $3.5 billion.
Oregon Transportation Director Matt Garrett says that as planners have learned more about the soil they’re working with, they’ve been able to gain certainty about their construction approach and solidify the project’s timetable, which helped cut costs.
The project will replace the I-5 bridge; extend light rail to Vancouver, Wash.; and enhance the pedestrian and bicycle path between Vancouver and Portland, Ore. It is expected to be paid for with federal, state and toll money.
