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The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on Friday published its for the Burnside Bridge replacement project, Multnomah County announced. The document is required for projects using federal funds and gives the project team approval to move forward.

The FHWA reviewed the project’s  before issuing its decision, which marks the end of the environmental review phase.

During that review phase, from 2019 through 2023, the project team evaluated a range of options that addressed the purpose and need, screened options against a set of evaluation criteria, and selected one to advance into the design phase.

The project is now in the design phase. In this detailed process, the bridge form, architectural and aesthetic features, mechanical and structural components, constructability issues, costs, and long-term maintenance needs will be considered.

This year, as the design develops, the project team will provide community members several opportunities to weigh in on bridge aesthetics.

The Community Design Advocacy Group, made up of people who represent a range of interests and backgrounds, will serve an important role in providing feedback. The group will provide input to the project team on bridge aesthetics including structure type, lighting, railing types and concrete finishes on the bridge.

After the design is completed, the project will be able to move into the construction phase, which could start as early as 2027.