Major Oregon Highway Set for Extended Closure
Oregon transportation officials are warning drivers to prepare for an estimated five-week closure of all southbound Interstate 5 lanes through Portland’s Rose Quarter beginning Friday, Sept. 11. The closure is expected to create significant congestion on I-5 and surrounding streets.
Closure will affect key Portland connections
The closure will extend for approximately two miles between Interstate 405 and Interstate 84. It also will include the southbound I-5 connector from I-405 to I-84 and some nearby on-ramps, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation.
ODOT said travel times near the construction area could reach three times normal levels, with congestion potentially extending well beyond the immediate closure zone. Officials are urging motorists to plan alternate routes and avoid using residential streets as detours.
Crews will replace aging roadway surface
The concrete surface of the elevated roadway was last replaced in 1985. After decades of heavy traffic and exposure to weather, the surface has developed ruts, cracks and potholes.
During the closure, construction crews will remove the existing concrete, repair and reinforce the structure beneath it, replace bridge joints and install a new concrete roadway surface. The work is part of the I-5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project.
“We are asking everyone to plan ahead,” said David Kim, ODOT’s statewide project delivery manager.
Travelers encouraged to use transit
ODOT and local transportation officials are encouraging travelers to shift their trips, work remotely when possible, travel outside peak periods or use public transportation. TriMet’s MAX system is expected to provide an alternative for some trips through the Rose Quarter during the closure.
Drivers should check current conditions and closure information before traveling and allow substantially more time for trips through the Portland metropolitan area.
