Oregon has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernize the Interstate Bridge and significantly improve our region’s economic resilience, support our climate goals and meet the needs of future generations, (“Key Oregon legislative committee punts on Interstate Bridge funding,” May 22).
The Interstate Bridge is an essential regional, national and international transportation link, and its replacement is necessary for our region’s success. The current I-5 bridge acts as a stop sign on this critical trade route and falls far short of meeting our needs for safe, equitable and environmentally responsible transportation. The bridge also poses immediate safety and congestion issues, as crash rates in the area are over three times higher than the statewide average.