Washington County Seeks Feedback on Cornelius Pass Road, U.S. 26 Interchange Bridge Designs

Five potential bridge styles are under consideration to improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:10am

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A bold, abstract illustration composed of a repeated icon of a stylized bicycle in a grid pattern, using bright, neon colors to conceptually represent the connectivity and active transportation focus of the bridge project.The proposed bicycle and pedestrian bridges at the Cornelius Pass Road and U.S. 26 interchange aim to enhance connectivity and safety for active transportation users.Hillsboro Today

The Washington County Department of Land Use & Transportation is asking the community to provide feedback on five potential design concepts for new bicycle and pedestrian bridges at the Cornelius Pass Road and U.S. 26 interchange in Hillsboro. The proposed bridges aim to improve safety and connectivity by linking several existing and future trail networks in the area.

Why it matters

The new bridges would create an important link in the regional trail system, connecting destinations like schools, parks, and employment centers, while also tying into future greenway and trail projects. Improving pedestrian and cyclist access at this busy interchange is crucial for promoting sustainable transportation and enhancing community livability.

The details

The project proposes two bridges - one crossing Cornelius Pass Road just south of the interchange, and another spanning U.S. 26 on the east side of Cornelius Pass. The five design concepts under consideration include braced arches, Warren trusses, splayed arches, cantilever towers, and a triangular frame. Officials say the bridges, along with planned trail connections, would link the Rock Creek Trail, protected bikeways, the future Crescent Park Greenway, and the Oregon Electric Railway trail corridor.

  • The current design phase is estimated to cost $700,000.
  • The community survey is open through April 19, 2026.

The players

Washington County Department of Land Use & Transportation

The lead agency overseeing the bridge design project and community engagement process.

Oregon Department of Transportation

A partner agency collaborating on the project.

City of Hillsboro

A partner agency collaborating on the project.

Hillsboro Parks & Recreation

A partner agency collaborating on the project.

Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District

A partner agency collaborating on the project.

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What’s next

The preliminary design phase is underway, and additional funding will be needed to complete final design and construction of the bridges.

The takeaway

This project represents a significant investment in improving pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure in the Hillsboro area, enhancing connectivity, safety, and community livability. The public feedback process is crucial to ensuring the final bridge designs meet the needs and priorities of local residents.