Rep. John Ley, R‑Vancouver, has introduced legislation calling for an independent audit of the Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement Project, a multibillion‑dollar effort with major implications for Southwest Washington commuters. According to reporting by The Reflector, the bill aims to increase transparency and fiscal accountability as project costs continue to escalate.

Public records from the Washington State Legislature show that House Bill 2669 was formally introduced on January 26, 2026, and referred to the House Transportation Committee for review. The bill would require a performance audit examining how funds have been allocated and managed throughout the bridge replacement process. The legislative summary, available through LegiScan, confirms that the proposal specifically targets oversight of spending on the Interstate 5 bridge over the Columbia River.

Additional context published by the Washington State House Republicans indicates that the audit would evaluate spending practices, forecasting assumptions, and oversight mechanisms tied to the project. Reporting from Clark County Today outlines concerns over cost increases, contract management, and projections for toll revenue and transit ridership.

While the bill does not propose halting construction or altering the project’s design, it seeks to provide lawmakers and the public with a clear, independent assessment of whether current management practices are meeting financial and operational expectations. For Cowlitz County residents who rely on the I‑5 corridor for travel and commerce, the outcome of this legislation could influence how the state approaches long‑term transportation investments along the Columbia River.

HB 2669 remains under consideration by the House Transportation Committee. Any future movement on the bill will determine whether an independent audit proceeds and what level of scrutiny the project ultimately receives.

Sources:

The Reflector: Rep. Ley introduces bill calling for audit of I‑5 Bridge Replacement Project

LegiScan: WA HB2669 – Requiring a performance audit of the Interstate 5 bridge replacement project

Clark County Today: Rep. John Ley’s new bill calls for an independent audit of Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement Project