The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program reported that the U.S. Coast Guard told it on Jan. 16, 2026, the proposed fixed-span I-5 bridge over the Columbia River would be allowed to proceed. The program says the design provides 116 feet of vertical clearance for navigation.
The program says the decision lets it prepare updated cost and schedule figures, start choosing the bridge’s final design and identify a construction contractor.
The program says it will keep working with federal partners on the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. It also says the fixed-span proposal would end bridge lifts and accommodate more than 99% of river traffic.
