Columbia River Crossing stories continue to appear in The Columbian. Recently published was a listing of what I assume was an accurate prediction of accounting of costs involved. It stated that removal of the current bridge would consume $80 million.
A new bridge will not reduce vehicle traffic in the Interstate 5 corridor. Possibly the two states could move one bridge, intact, one section at a time to a location near Camas or Washougal, connecting with Oregon points near Troutdale, Marine Drive, I-84, and then to Gresham, connecting indirectly with Highway 26. A second bridge could be moved west of the railroad bridge. This would open up the west end of Hayden Island, connecting to Marine Drive, St. John’s bridge, Highway 30 and Swan Island.
Piers in the river would be prepared in advance before moving. The highest section of I-5’s southbound span was floated into place when constructed in 1958. The I-5 corridor needs traffic relief. This cost would possibly be nominal compared to construction of a new bridge. Rather than scrap bridges, use them. The area needs the additional crossings. It would also create jobs.
Frank Funk
VANCOUVER
