I-5 Bridge Replacement: public comment period through Nov 18

Comment before November 18, 2024

Attempts to upgrade the I-5 bridge over the Columbia River have been in progress for over a decade. Everyone agrees we need a bridge that will be as safe as possible during an earthquake. The other details are more challenging: How many lanes? Should it have transit? How high should it be? What about pedestrian or bike lanes? How do we make sure it does the least damage to river ecosystems? How will it impact the economy and health of people living near the bridge? And, of course, how will we pay for it?

The Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement (IBR) program released its Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) on Friday, September 20, initiating a 60-day public comment period. While the IBR program proposes this project as a solution to regional transportation challenges, we still hold concerns about the long-term impacts of this project on climate, equity, and the environment.

This is an important moment for the community to comment and advocate for alternatives that truly prioritize sustainable transportation solutions that minimize harm to vulnerable communities. Your voice is critical as it can shape the path forward for the project.

What You Can Do:

• Review the Draft SEIS and submit your comments.
• Attend a virtual briefing October 9, 5:30–7pm, about the project, led by the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program.
• Attend a testimony training hosted by 350PDX and the Just Crossing Alliance on November 11, 6:30–8pm; register here for the Zoom link.
• Write a public comment highlighting concerns related to greenhouse gas emissions, the environment, air quality, and the potential effects on nearby communities, and turn it in on or before November 18.

How to submit comments:

• Use the program’s online form
• Email your comments to: draftseis@interstatebridge.org, with “Draft SEIS public comment” in the subject line
• Mail a letter to: Interstate Bridge Replacement Program, Attn: Draft SEIS Public Comment, 500 Broadway, Suite 200, Vancouver WA 98660
• Leave a voicemail on the program’s toll-free hotline: 866-IBR-SEIS (427-7347)
• Attend an in-person or virtual public comment event.
  • In person: Vancouver — 5:30–8:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 15 at Clark Community College Gaiser Hall
  • In person: Portland — 5:30–8:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 17 at Portland Expo Center
  • Virtual: Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, 12:00–2:30 PM
  • Virtual: Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024, 6:00–8:30 PM

A calendar of events can be found here with more to be added.

Take Action! This is an opportunity to ensure that community priorities like climate justice, equity, and sustainable transit are at the forefront of decision-making for this significant project.