As plans move ahead to replace the aging Interstate 5 bridge connecting Oregon and Washington, some residents are growing concerned about the potential loss of their homes to make way for the new construction.
The I-5 bridge is deemed structurally unsound in the event of an earthquake, and replacing it comes with a hefty price tag of $6 billion. However, the financial cost isn’t the only worry. The project also includes a proposed toll and, more alarmingly for some, the risk of losing their homes.
KOIN 6 News spoke with Vancouver families who are facing the possibility of displacement, according to a recent impact report. For many, this concern has lingered for years, but some claim they were never officially notified. One resident, Aaron Walters, said he is particularly distressed as he has no intention of selling his home and nowhere else to go.
Walters, a Marine veteran, has lived in his Vancouver home since 1989. Over the years, he has raised four children there and modified the house to accommodate his needs as a disabled veteran. Now, after 35 years, his home is one of dozens at risk of demolition for the bridge replacement project.
I honestly don’t know what I’m going to do. I’m really worried, Walters said.
His son, Ryan, who also serves as his caretaker, added, My dad needs to stay in this house. It’s the only place that keeps him safe.
Aaron’s home sits on a portion of 47 acres projected to be seized through purchase or eminent domain on both sides of the Columbia River to accommodate the new bridge.
I don’t want to leave, and I can’t afford to, Aaron said. As a disabled Marine veteran on a limited income, I don’t have many options.
The environmental impact study estimates that 43 homes and 36 businesses will be displaced, but it also projects the creation of over 600 jobs. Renters are also worried, as they face the possibility of landlords selling their properties and forcing them out.
If I’m kicked out, I can’t afford another place, especially not in downtown Portland where rents are sky-high, said Sara Whitney, a renter.
Homeowners are also facing challenges. “Who’s going to buy a house that could be gone in a year or two? said Marcus Davis, a homeowner.
Project officials said nothing has been finalized, and once plans are solidified, residents will be notified and offered market value for their properties along with relocation assistance. However, officials didn’t rule out the use of eminent domain if agreements can’t be reached.
Aaron Walters said that if his home must go for the community’s benefit, he wants to ensure light rail isn’t included in the project, saying it should reflect the will of the voters.
Public comments on the project are being accepted through November 18.
The Interstate Bridge Replacement program sent the following statement to KOIN 6 News:
“The IBR program will take every step possible to avoid and minimize property impacts. No final decisions have been made regarding what will be built, and many steps remain before specific property impacts are discussed.
The recently released Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement assessed the benefits and potential impacts of the proposed design, including possible property impacts. The Final SEIS will outline the program’s footprint and mitigation strategies, with formal property discussions expected after the program publishes its Final SEIS and receives a federal Record of Decision ROD, both anticipated for mid- to late-2025. This ROD will authorize the start of construction.
The first construction phase, focusing on the river bridge and its approaches, is projected to begin in late 2025 at the earliest. As the construction process will be staggered, discussions about property acquisitions will also take place in phases.
If a property is required for the project, owners will be contacted well in advance, as outlined in the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act of 1970. This includes fair market compensation, relocation assistance, and a legal process to resolve disputes if necessary. The legal route is only used when all other methods have been exhausted.