5 sanity-saving tips to help you handle Portland I-5 closure

Key Points:

• Southbound Interstate 5 through the Rose Quarter in Portland will be closed for five weeks starting around 10 p.m. Friday, causing significant travel delays and congestion on one of Oregon's busiest highways.
• Drivers are advised to check navigation apps before traveling, but also to verify routes as traffic patterns will be unpredictable; increased congestion is expected on alternative routes including I-405, U.S. 30, and several city streets.
• Travel times could be two to three times longer during the closure, especially in the first few days as drivers adjust, so allowing extra time for trips is strongly recommended.
• ODOT and the city encourage using public transit, biking, carpooling, or working from home to reduce traffic, highlighting the MAX Yellow Line and additional TriMet services as viable alternatives.
• Staying informed through real-time traffic updates on TripCheck and navigation apps is crucial due to expected accidents and varying congestion levels throughout the closure period.