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TransportationTuesday, November 10

Ron Paananen will take over the Interstate Bridge replacement program on Dec. 2

The PDXtoday teamFrom Tuesday’s edition · 1 min read · 2 sources

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If you cross the Interstate Bridge, the project to replace it is getting a new boss. Ron Paananen, a former Washington state transportation official, will take over as program administrator on Dec. 2, the team announced Monday. Carley Francis, interim administrator since January, stays on as director of program development.

$14.4 billionapproximate cost of the Interstate Bridge replacement project

The 5-mile project includes extending light rail into Vancouver.

Source: Daily Journal of Commerce

KXL reports Paananen has held leadership roles on megaprograms for 21 years, including the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement in Seattle. “Ron has led some of the most complex infrastructure work in the country,” Washington Transportation Secretary Julie Meredith said. Next up is hiring a contractor.

  • Before: HDR in Bellevue since 2017; nearly 10 years at WSDOT
  • Sole bid this fall: Kiewit-led venture, $3.3 billion to $3.9 billion
  • Kiewit has faced scrutiny over I-205 Abernethy Bridge, Oregon City

Paananen starts Dec. 2, and construction is anticipated in 2028

  1. Nov. 23The request for proposals for a contractor is expected to be published.
  2. Dec. 2Ron Paananen takes over as program administrator.
  3. 2027The contract is anticipated to be awarded.
  4. 2028Construction is anticipated to begin.

Sources: Daily Journal of Commerce, FM News 101 KXL

Sources: Daily Journal of Commerce, FM News 101 KXL

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