ok465:
Scroll down to FIG 4-8-2. Reference to Aircraft #2 in the example clearances. It appears this terminology is used now for off route to RNAV approach clearances....but one does have to get the 'at or above' number correct. (The example is somewhat simplistic and I may be missing your point.)
Check my post #1017. That example has been in there for many years.
"Cross at or above..." is far different than "maintain at or above."
Implicit in the example you cite is a prior clearance to maintain 5,000 or a higher altitude.