Federal approval and 2025 funding achievements highlight major milestones for this vital bi-state connection; HNTB serves as owner’s representative

HOOD RIVER, Ore. (Jan. 7, 2026) – HNTB joins the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority in celebrating a transformative year for the Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge replacement. Over the past year, the project secured federal approval and major funding commitments from federal, state and local partners. These achievements position the project to deliver a modern, reliable connection that will meet the region’s needs for generations.

HNTB serves as the owner’s representative for the Bridge Authority, supporting funding efforts, guiding the progressive design-build delivery model and directing the Kiewit-led design and preconstruction team.

The Federal Highway Administration issued its record of decision in November, concluding the National Environmental Policy Act review, identifying the selected bridge alternative and enabling federal funding. This action allows the project to advance into final design, permitting, right of way and construction procurement.

Additional progress includes full funding commitments from Oregon and Washington and advancement of key agreements with tribal partners, including a forthcoming memorandum of agreement to mitigate impacts to treaty fishing access.

“Achieving our record of decision is one of those key milestones that really define our project.” said Mike Fox, co-chair of the Hood River -White Salmon Bridge Authority. “With it, design can proceed, we can obtain the required construction permits, and it will help attract the last bit of funding we need for this project. Our efforts are now focused on completing a design that is protective, compliant, and affordable. Both HNTB and Kiewit are well-positioned to make this project a major success for our community.”

“These milestones reflect the Bridge Authority’s commitment to delivering long-term community benefits,” said Kris Agers, Washington office leader and senior vice president at HNTB. “We are excited to help advance a bridge that will strengthen daily life, commerce and connections between Oregon and Washington.”

The new bridge will replace the century-old toll bridge linking Hood River, White Salmon and Bingen, Washington. It will meet modern seismic and safety standards, provide wider lanes with shoulders, include both a pedestrian sidewalk and a bi-directional bike path, improve river navigation and incorporate advanced stormwater treatment to protect the Columbia River.

“With the record of decision secured and design well underway, the project is moving steadily toward construction,” said Michael Shannon, bridge replacement

project director at HNTB. “Our focus is delivering a design that provides a resilient, accessible crossing that serves the needs of the communities that rely on it.”

The new bridge will maintain reliable access to jobs, schools, healthcare and recreation on both sides of the river. Construction is expected to have minimal traffic impacts, allowing drivers to continue using the existing bridge while the new span is built.

As design progresses, the Bridge Authority and project partners will continue coordinating with regional stakeholders and preparing for construction. The project remains on track to begin construction in 2027, with the new bridge expected to open to traffic in 2031 and the existing bridge removed over the following two years.