Last mentioned: Mar 18, 2026
Target Construction Start
Official goal for breaking ground on the new bridge spans and light rail extension.
Cost Surge Reported
New estimates show project costs soaring, prompting a re-evaluation of the funding plan.
Federal Funding Secured
The project receives a $600M federal Mega grant, the largest in the program's history at the time.
IBR Program Launch
WA and OR governors sign a memorandum of intent to restart the bridge replacement process.
CRC Failure
The previous Columbia River Crossing project is cancelled after funding disputes.
The Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program has seen its projected costs escalate significantly, creating a new funding gap for Washington and Oregon. Despite the financial headwinds, both states are doubling down on a 2028 construction start date to modernize the critical West Coast logistics corridor.