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Replacement of the Interstate 5 Bridge was designated as a national priority by the White House on Tuesday.

Though the decision doesn’t ensure more funding for the $3.5 billion Columbia River Crossing project, the White House’s acknowledgment could elevate the project’s standing. U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters said in a statement that the project would ease congestion on I-5. As a result of the endorsement, the crossing will receive expedited review but still comply with federal and state environmental requirements.

The priority designation was requested by the Washington and Oregon transportation departments. The Bush Administration has given priority status to only 20 other projects in the past five years.