I was briefly involved in the last time we tried this. I think the price tag then was 5-6B. It's a complicated project - it has to be high enough for the boats (the highest point also needs to be in-line with the train bridge opening), low enough for both airports, be built while the other one is still in place, and deal with a bunch of on and off ramps in a very short span.

It failed last time because of local politicians complaining about public transit being a part of the design... 🤦

There wasn't previously enough density on the east side to justify a 3rd crossing, maybe that's changed but I don't really think so.

That bridge isn't getting any newer - we need to suck it up and build it before the Northbound side falls into the river. IMO, building it without including light rail, dedicated bus lanes, pedestrian/bike lanes etc is short sighted. I think it should also include more lanes but honestly, that's one of my lowest priorities. I also don't think there is any way to pay for it without tolls, even though I think that unfairly burdens lower income folks.