MAX Yellow Line Extension (Interstate Bridge Replacement Program)

Alignment

As part of the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program, the MAX Yellow Line would be extended from Portland’s Expo Center station across a new I-5 bridge over the Columbia River into downtown Vancouver, Washington, with new stations at Hayden Island, Vancouver Waterfront, and Evergreen Boulevard. Estimates of the extension’s length vary by source depending on whether approach trackage is included, ranging from about 1.9 to 3 miles.

FHWA and FTA jointly issued an amended Record of Decision on July 1, 2026, completing federal environmental review for the IBR program. However, construction of the light rail segment itself remains contingent on securing an estimated $1 billion FTA New Starts grant, which is not expected before 2030; the program’s first construction contract (covering bridge and highway work) is anticipated around 2027. Vancouver city officials have publicly pushed back on proposals to shorten the light rail scope to control costs.

Updates

2026-07 — Amended Record of Decision issued

FHWA and FTA jointly issued an amended ROD on July 1, 2026, capping the federal environmental review process for the IBR program, including its light rail component.

2026-04 — Vancouver council objects to scope reduction

Vancouver City Council members expressed opposition to proposals that would shorten the planned light rail extension to reduce costs.