PORTLAND (AP) — The Columbia River Crossing project task force voted late Tuesday to endorse replacing the Interstate 5 bridge over the Columbia River with a new bridge and a light-rail extension to Vancouver, Wash.

Although advisory, the vote improves the prospects for the $4.2 billion bridge.

A new bridge has support from business, labor and government leaders in Oregon and Washington. It is aimed at relieving rush-hour congestion that frustrates commuters and truck drivers.

Environmental groups have said the project would promote sprawl and increase traffic and related greenhouse gas emissions.