New interstate bridge could cost $4.2B

A new interstate bridge over the Columbia River could cost as much as $4.2 billion, according to new cost estimates released Monday.
The estimates were released by the Columbia River Crossing project team, a joint effort between the Oregon Department of Transportation and the Washington State Department of Transportation.
The group is studying five alternatives, including replacing the bridge and supplementing the existing structure.
Cost estimates today range from $3.1 million to $4.2 million, presuming construction begins between 2010 and 2017.
The bridge is considered one of the worst bottlenecks on Interstate 5, which runs from Canada to Mexico.
The group will soon hold open houses to gather public comments on the proposed alternatives. It will release additional findings next month, including funding options.
credited by: bizjournals.com