The Oregon Department of Transportation and Washington State Department of Transportation are working together to hire a “single program administrator” to oversee an effort to replace the aging I-5 highway bridge spanning the Columbia River; part of bi-state effort launched in November 2019.

“We need to do everything possible to set this program up for success to meet the needs of the bi-state region,” said WSDOT Secretary Roger Millar in a statement.

“Having one top executive for the office that jointly represents both states will provide consistent leadership and a unified vision for the program,” he said.

The program administrator will serve a key role directing the multi-agency team responsible for the bridge replacement program – focused in particular on ensuring it follows a “transparent, data-driven process” that prioritizes “equity and inclusion” throughout each stage of project development.

“Replacing the Interstate Bridge is essential for the economic vitality, resiliency and livability of the entire Portland-Vancouver region,” added Kris Strickler, director of the Oregon DOT.

“Finding a program administrator who can effectively lead the work of the office as a partnership effort will be critical to successfully identify a solution that truly reflects community needs and values,” he said.