Top Stories: I-5 bridge tolls; cougar caught on camera; serial burglar

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Here are some of the top stories of the week on columbian.com.

1. Tolls on existing I-5 bridge starting in 2026 will help pay for the new span linking Oregon and Washington

When construction starts on a new Interstate 5 bridge across the Columbia River in early 2026, drivers will begin paying tolls on the existing span between Washington and Oregon.

That’s the plan.

• “A lot of people are upset now. They are not used to tolling. It’s going to be a new experience,” says Rep. Ed Orcutt

2. Cougar caught on camera at 137th and Padden Parkway in Orchards

A cougar was spotted in a residential area near Padden Parkway and Northeast 137th Avenue in Orchards this weekend.

Wildlife is making itself known in Clark County as spring weather entices animals out of their winter hidey-holes.

• WDFW officials say there is little danger to the public

3. Clark County homeowners age 61 or older may qualify for a property tax break but many don’t know it

Older homeowners and people with disabilities could be saving thousands in property taxes but Clark County Assessor’s Office staff say a state tax-exemption program is underutilized.

“For people on a limited income, that can be really significant money to keep in their pocket to pay for their day-to-day things,” said Holly Hill, program outreach coordinator with the Assessor’s Office.

• Residents are leaving money on the table as Clark County property taxes increase

4. Serial burglar hits Felida, Camas, Salmon Creek warns Clark County Sheriff’s Office

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a serial burglar who appears to be posing as a door-to-door salesman. If no one responds to his knock, he breaks in through windows at the back of the house.

Law enforcement said they have received multiple reports from the Felida and Salmon Creek areas along with one report in Camas.

• Serial burglar appears to be posing as a door-to-door salesman

5. This chapter is not finished for Vancouver’s Barnes & Noble

When you walk into Vancouver’s Barnes & Noble, you notice it immediately — the scent of books.

The store has things besides books, of course, including a selection of board games and vinyl records, as well as journals and stationery.

• Bookstore in Vancouver Plaza has lasted long enough to see resurgence in people reading books