Thompson Metal Fab, Inc., is suing the U.S. Department of Transportation, alleging that the Environmental Impact Statement for the Columbia River Crossing project (new I-5 bridge) failed to adequately account for the social, environmental, and economic impacts to users of the Columbia River. In particular, Thompson Metal Fab’s business would be adversely affected because the proposed bridge height will not accommodate its large metal structures transported by river. Thompson Metal Fab requires a maximum of 160 feet of clearance, and the new bridge is proposed at 95 feet in height. It seeks court invalidation of the Record of Decision approving the Environmental Impact Statement for the project. If the lawsuit is successful, the project cannot go forward with final permitting and construction until after further environmental review. Thompson Metal Fab filed the suit on July 2, 2012. Click here for a copy of the complaint.
