Oregon and Washington state officials praised the new funding.
“This is a big moment for the Pacific Northwest and demonstrates the national significance of this effort,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek in the release. “Replacing the Interstate Bridge is a critical infrastructure investment for our local communities, two states and the entire West Coast.”
Previous efforts to replace the bridge failed in 2014, largely due to federal lawmakers’ opposition to the light rail component. Environmental activists have also balked at the project and are pushing for a design that doesn’t entail freeway-widening, according to Oregon Live.
