Hood River Bridge Toll Increase: What You Need to Know for September 1
Photo: HoodRiverBridge.org
by Cole Goodwin
Hood River, OR August 30th, 2023– As the sun sets on August, the communities of Hood River, White Salmon and neighboring regions need to gear up for an imminent change: the toll rate hike on the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge. Set to begin September 1st, this alteration has stirred conversations among regular bridge commuters, local businesses, and the Port of Hood River Board of Commissioners.
The Basics
Starting September 1, 2023, those using the cash payment system to cross will witness an increase from the previous $2.00 to a new rate of $3.50. For the BreezeBy users, a modest jump from $1.00 to $1.75 awaits.
Other Important Rate Information:
CASH PAYMENTS:
Motorcycles (Class 0): $3.00
Passenger Cars & Pickups (Class 1): $3.50
Large trucks, RVs, Trailers, Busses (Class 2+): $4.00 PER AXLE
BREEZEBY:
Motorcycles (Class 0): $1.50
Passenger Cars & Pickups (Class 1): $1.75
Large trucks, RVs, Trailers, Busses (Class 2+): $3.00 PER AXLE
The Why
The Hood River-White Salmon Bridge, constructed in 1924, is an emblematic lifeline connecting Hood River, Oregon, to White Salmon and Bingen in Washington State. However, its aging infrastructure is no longer congruent with modern safety and functional standards. In addition costly repairs to the bridge are mounting as the bridge is scheduled to undergo some $2 million in repairs in the coming months to address a number of issues.
The bridge’s lift is currently non-operational. The gearbox has failed and is currently being repaired in Pasco. The repairs will likely not be completed until November. The gearbox is necessary to raise the bridge for tall ships to pass through. The lift also requires cable replacement. The Coast Gaurd normally requires that the bridge be lifted at least once a month in order to ensure things are in working order. Crews will also be working to repair voids in the bridge’s concrete piers in the coming weeks.
The new toll rates will provide a reserve for the Bridge Authority so that they may apply for a $75 million federal 15% loan. The replacement project comes with a hefty price tag of $520 million and aims to bring a safer, more modern bridge, ensuring the smooth commute of an estimated 4 million users annually.
A rendering of the design for the new bridge which would include space for pedestrian crossing. Photo: HoodRiverBridge.org
So far, the project has secured state and federal grants totaling $119 million which is 23% of the estimated $520 million required for completion of the bridge.
Graph from HoodRiverBridge.org
Further Support
While the toll hike is a necessary step, the Port and Bridge Authority Commissioner, Mike Fox, acknowledges the added burden on bridge users and encouraged anyone who will experience hardship due to the toll increase to contact the Port of Hood River.
“We recognize, as of September first, that tolling on the Hood River Bridge tolling is going to go up fairly significantly,” said Fox. “If we all want a replacement bridge, which I personally believe is crucial to the success of our community for the next 100 years, then we’ve got to set aside some money.”
“Our plan is we are going to get about 80% of the bridge paid for from grants. The toll increase will allow us to apply for a federal loan of approximately $75 million for the bridge,” said Fox.
He also assured that efforts to secure more grants were underway.
The BreezeBy Advantage
To potentially save on commuting costs, the Port encourages users to consider the BreezeBy option. Opening a new account is free, and each household gets a transponder at no extra charge. Plus, there's no limit to the number of vehicles one can associate with an account.
Public Transportation Provides an Alternative to the Increased Toll
Those who are concerned about the rate increase may be happy to hear that The Mt. Adams Transportation bus provides a sustainable, cost-effective, and convenient alternative to driving. The bus only costs $1 per ride for those aged 11 and older and makes 9 trips across the bridge daily. For more information and a link to bus schedule click here.
A map shows a connecting bus route between Hood River, OR and White Salmon, WA. Photo: Mt. Adams Transportation Service
Looking Forward
With the increase in sight, preparation is key. Those who frequently traverse the Hood River Bridge should familiarize themselves with the new rates and consider efficient payment methods or public transit alternatives.
For a detailed breakdown of the rates and more information on the bridge replacement project, the dedicated website hoodriverbridge.org remains a valuable resource.
