Bridges

Biden was joined by Gov. Kate Brown and members of Oregon's congressional delegation in an appearance at Portland's airport. It was his first visit to the state as president.

For decades, Portland’s bridges tended to be stately edifices. But in 1987, a couple of electrical unions decided it might look nice to illuminate the Morrison Bridge for Christmas. Carols were sung, and flood lights with color filters were switched on.

A task for working to replace the Burnside Bridge has recommended changes that would save $200 million.

Portland's downtown bridges aren't expected to survive a Cascadia subduction zone earthquake. So Multnomah County wants to tear down and rebuild the Burnside Bridge so it's earthquake-proof. But inflation has pushed the price tag up to $1 billion.

Clark County has signaled its support of a project to build a new Interstate 5 bridge crossing the Columbia River but its council added some conditions, asking for no tolls to be placed on the bridge or options for mass transit. The county has little jurisdiction but the move could be a sign of tensions that may lie ahead.

A $5.3 billion transportation bill aimed at improving Oregon's roads, bridges and transit wins final approval in Legislature.