Columbia River Crossing update
The Oregonian and Columbian newspapers reported last week on the concerns of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) regarding the proposed height of the I-5 bridge, commonly referred to as the Columbia River Crossing (CRC), and how how it could affect navigation for 4-6 vessels. For background: the proposed 95 ft height of the CRC threads the needle between what is needed for river navigation and flight clearances for Portland International Airport and Pearson Airfield. Discussions between CRC staff and USCG staff have been ongoing since 2004.
Since the early stages of development, the CRC staff has worked with the USCG and Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to ensure river navaigation needs were appropriately addressed. CRC staff members are currently working with staff from the USCG and Corps to fine tune the bridge design and we are hopeful the clearance issue will not delay the project.
PNWA encourages and supports the USCG, Corps, and CRC staff to continue their efforts to address clearance concerns. For more information please contact Page Phillips, 503.234.8550.
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