New I-5 bridge design includes wind turbines

Combine river, wind, eco-friendliness and smooth sailing across the Columbia River and what do you have? A new Interstate 5 bridge with wind turbines generating electricity.

You read that right: The latest bridge design features vertically spinning turbines that would generate an unknown amount of juice while proclaiming loudly that the Portland-Vancouver area is the sustainability center of the world.

Or so says the Florida firm that did the design, now winning the affections of leaders from both cities as well as planners trying to eliminate congestion by building a new $4 billion structure.

It's unknown how much energy the turbines would generate or how it would be used. The turbines might help power bridge lights and toll booths. Or they could be merely decorative icons of a green industry hereabouts --a problem for purists who say that's less than sustainable.

Either way, the concept has captured the imagination of local leaders scrutinizing the project and local architects pushing for a bridge that looks as good as it functions.

No one has figured out the cost, either, or potential payback on the energy generation. That comes later, if the project sails.

Oregon and Washington still must persuade Congress to help fund a mammoth construction effort that joins expanded roadway with light rail running to Vancouver. It could take years and exert real force in the way the region continues to develop, particularly north of Vancouver.

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