Bridge Options

The future design of the replacement I-5 bridge must first consider the type of bridge that is technically feasible and secondly, bridge aesthetics.

The bridge type selection includes constraints related to:

Airspace of two airports
Marine traffic patterns
Feasibility of construction
Sustainability

Bridge aesthetics will include community desires for:

A signature feature for the community
Sensitivity to the surrounding area and its history
Sustainability

Additional engineering work must be completed before final decisions can be made. Throughout this process, Columbia River Crossing (CRC) is committed to respecting the communities’ goals and the requirements to provide safe travel for all modes of transportation.

Bridge Height

In consultation with the U.S. Coast Guard and standard Federal Aviation Administration safety guidelines, the project established clearances for both maritime and air traffic. The maritime traffic clearance eliminates the need for a lift span. The air traffic clearance limits the height of features above the deck of the new bridge. While the existing Interstate Bridge penetrates Pearson Field’s airspace, this encroachment will be minimized by the new bridge.

Urban Design

The CRC’s Urban Design Advisory Group drafted design guidelines that are being used in continuing design efforts. The goal of the draft guidelines is to create structures that are of exceptional design and are sensitive to the natural and built environments. The guidelines establish that the bridge should “celebrate passage over a mighty river between two states,” and be an “apt and iconic” presence in the landscape.

Sustainability

Columbia River Crossing will incorporate sustainability principles into the project. A sustainability plan is being developed consistent with Oregon and Washington guidance. This plan will consider the environmental, community and economic aspects of sustainability for design, construction and ongoing operations of the Columbia River Crossing Project.