Construction at the Aurora-Donald interchange on Interstate 5 is moving forward, with a significant traffic shift scheduled for August 23. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has completed the center portion of the new I-5 bridge over Ehlen Road NE, which will now carry northbound traffic.
On the evening of August 23, crews will begin connecting the center portion of the new bridge to the northbound lanes and apply temporary striping. Rolling slowdowns will be used to move traffic away from the work zone and ensure worker safety. ODOT advises drivers to exercise caution, be patient, watch for workers, and follow posted signs.
Drivers traveling northbound on I-5 can expect lane closures starting with the fast lane around 8 p.m., followed by a shift to the right leading to use of Exit 278 off-ramp. A flagger will direct vehicles at the intersection of Ehlen Road NE and the ramp, after which traffic will re-enter I-5 using the on-ramp. ODOT plans to complete this shift and reopen both ramps by 8 a.m. on August 24. Southbound I-5 traffic will not be affected in this work zone.
Motorists are reminded to slow down in work zones where construction equipment may be moving in and out, particularly in the far left lane. Nightly lane closures may occur in either direction between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m., while other roads in the area could see single-lane closures from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The speed limit through this section remains reduced to 55 mph.
ODOT also notes that its current funding crisis is impacting maintenance and operations across Oregon’s highways; however, most construction projects continue as they are funded separately through state or federal programs restricted for project development purposes only. More details about ODOT’s funding situation can be found at their website: https://www.oregon.gov/odot/Pages/default.aspx.
Drivers are urged not to change lanes where double white lines are present and should remain alert for grooves along median shoulders within work zones. Fines double in all Oregon work zones regardless of whether workers or signs are present.
For further information about ongoing projects or road conditions statewide, motorists can visit TripCheck.com or call 5-1-1 for updates.
“Please use caution, be patient, watch for workers and follow the directions on the signs.”
“Pay attention in work zones, slow down and move over – imagine this is where you work. Always drive safely, watch for construction signs and workers.”
“Remember that fines double in all Oregon work zones, whether workers and signs are present or not.”
“We do not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. ODOT is an EEO/AA Employer.”
