transportation1 month ago
I-5 Southbound Closed for Five Weeks in Portland Rose Quarter
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has closed all southbound lanes of Interstate 5 through Portland’s Rose Quarter for up to five weeks, beginning September 11, 2026. This closure aims to repair a 2-mile stretch of concrete and rebar that has exceeded its 25-year lifespan, with the last major paving occurring in 1985. Officials warn that travel times may double or triple during peak hours, potentially causing backups to extend into Washington state. While the initial weekend saw lighter traffic, ODOT anticipates significant congestion starting Monday and Tuesday as hybrid workers return to the road. The project is part of a larger effort to address safety and congestion at a major bottleneck where three interstates merge.
