PROJECT OVERVIEW
The Final Push
A New Bridge for a Stronger Gorge
With recent federal approval and state funding secured, the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge project is seeking the final federal investment needed to begin construction in 2027.
Building a new bridge is critical to the regional and national economy, freight and passenger vehicle safety, and families accessing essential services. Built in 1924, the existing bridge is outdated, unsafe and costly to maintain. Frequent closures due to aging design and safety issues disrupt access to essential services. Those closures also disrupt freight traffic carrying critical goods through the corridor, damaging the local and regional economies.
Moving Forward Together
PROGRESS UPDATES:
Environmental review complete: A federal Record of Decision was issued in November 2025, marking the end of the project’s required environmental review.
Final design taking shape: This summer, the project officially entered its final design phase, marking a major milestone. Construction-ready plans will be ready in spring 2027.
Final funding in sight: The project team is actively working to secure the final piece of funding through the federal Bridge Investment Program.
Cost & Funding
Building a new bridge includes more than construction. Costs also cover design, oversight, removal of the existing bridge, and contingency planning for unexpected challenges.
The new crossing is estimated at $717 million, with a total program cost of $1.12 billion. This includes contingency funding to manage risks such as inflation, supply chain changes, or unforeseen engineering conditions—helping ensure the project can be completed on time without the need for additional funding.
As design advances, cost estimates will continue to be refined and opportunities to reduce costs will be evaluated.
