The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program is proposing to replace the I-5 Interstate Bridge that crosses the Columbia River to connect Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington.
The project would replace the existing northbound and southbound interstate bridges with two new parallel single-level fixed-span bridges. Of the two new bridges, the new eastern (upstream) bridge would accommodate northbound highway traffic and a bicycle and pedestrian path. The new western (downstream) bridge would carry southbound traffic and be designed to facilitate the future integration of a two-way light rail public transit system.
The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program anticipates that construction will begin in 2028, depending on regulatory permit approvals and other factors.
Public engagement – water quality permits
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will issue a public notice inviting comments on the permit application. Information about the DEQ Section 401 water quality certification public comment process will be included within this notice. Comments specific to DEQ's water quality review may be submitted directly to DEQ, and contact information for DEQ will be provided in the public notice.
This page will be updated to include a link to the public notice and information about the comment period when those details are available.
Water quality permit requirements
DEQ received a request for a Section 401 water quality certification on Feb. 17, 2026. This certification is part of the federal 404 authorization process administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The federal Section 404 program regulates activities in waters of the United States, like the Columbia River.
DEQ reviews these projects to ensure they meet state water quality standards and sets requirements to protect water quality. DEQ will only issue a Section 401 water quality certification decision for the work proposed in Oregon.
A state-issued Section 401 water quality certification is a required component of this federal permitting process. It must be obtained before the federal 404 permit can be authorized. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the lead regulatory agency for the 404 authorization process.
Documents and resources
Contacts
Shelley Tattam
Water Quality Certification
Haley Teach
Water Quality Certification
Michael Loch
Communications and Outreach
Melyssa Graeper
Community Liaison