Published October 16, 2024

There’s a lot of buzz about a proposed brand-spanking-new bridge across Interstate 5 connecting Oregon and Washington. You love to see it. I love to see it.

Except that its construction and existence might displace me. Like, permanently.

The Interstate Bridge Replacement Program released visualizations of the design proposals. They’re pretty cool.

It’s fun to go along for the ride on a flythrough with them, even if it’s like watching a simulation of a drone that’s going to take you out someday.

My apartment building is still there in that video, but I can read, and I have read the disclaimer. The building still might be “acquired” and force me to relocate. Design proposals list it among the targeted structures.

This worries me. You know me. I’m a worrier.

How do you define ‘affordable’

I keep reading about new, affordable housing here. Who will be living in these places? People who can afford to pay much more, I am tempted to believe.

That’s great. Happy for them. I wouldn’t want to pay more than I have to pay.

Which brings me to my next point. I was reading about a new place, which the owner says “would be a great option for younger, working professionals, families or senior couples looking to downsize. The below-market rent will help seniors age in place or young people work toward homeownership, he told the newspaper.

Rent will “start” at $600 more a month than what I’m paying now, the paper reports.

The downtown where I live is filling up with expensive apartments in multi-use buildings. My building will be 100 years old in three years, if it makes it to that birthday.

We are all day to day, as they say, but lately I am feeling more day to day than ever.

Screenshot from Interstate Bridge Replacement Program video.