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ODOT: Expect a long Monday commute on I-5 through the Rose Quarter
Oregon Public Broadcasting - OPB • • nation
Key Points:
- ODOT has closed all southbound lanes of I-5 through Portland’s Rose Quarter for five weeks to replace the concrete surface for the first time since 1985, marking the start of a multi-year project.
- A second lane near Rosa Parks Way has reopened after initial lane reductions for striping and on-ramp adjustments, with ODOT updating signage to help drivers navigate the changes and reduce congestion.
- ODOT warns that commutes could take up to three times longer in worst-case scenarios but notes early data shows a 10% drop in traffic volume on major nearby highways during the weekend.
- Officials are actively monitoring traffic patterns and plan to improve signage to clearly indicate available lanes and detours before drivers reach I-405, aiming to ease morning congestion.
- Travelers are already adjusting their commutes in response to the closures, and ODOT encourages giving extra preparation time for weekday travel.
