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The I-5 closure that could double or triple your commute starts this week
OregonLive.com • • nation
Key Points:
- The southbound Interstate 5 Rose Quarter stretch will be closed 24/7 for up to five weeks starting Sept. 11 to allow structural repairs, including replacing the concrete surface and reinforcing the underlying structure.
- Officials warn of severe traffic delays, with travel times potentially doubling or tripling and congestion possibly extending over 7 miles into Washington, urging drivers to use alternate routes or public transit.
- The closure is part of a long-delayed, multibillion-dollar Rose Quarter renovation project that has been in planning since 2012, with costs now exceeding $2 billion, up from an initial $500 million estimate.
- Funding challenges and political disputes over transportation taxes have delayed the project, but ODOT is proceeding with phases that have secured funding, including this major closure to expedite work safely and cost-effectively.
- The freeway is expected to reopen by mid-October, promising a smoother and safer travel experience on the renovated section of I-5 once construction is complete.
