The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced that Interstate 5 will be closed for three nights between Exit 248 and Exit 252 in south Salem as part of ongoing work on the Battle Creek Road Bridge. The closures are scheduled to take place from January 12 to January 14, with both northbound and southbound lanes affected.
According to ODOT, large cranes will be brought in to set the beams that support the bridge’s driving surface. In preparation, lane closures will occur on the night of January 8 near milepost 250 at Battle Creek Road. The right lane in both directions will close at 9 p.m., leaving only one lane open each way until 5 a.m. on January 9.
For the full closures from January 12 through January 14, I-5 traffic will be detoured onto Commercial Street SE and Kuebler Boulevard between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. each night. Drivers are advised to expect construction noise and delays during these times.
“Our schedule may change due to weather and construction needs. Know before you go and use TripCheck.com for the most up-to-date information on traffic and closures,” stated ODOT.
Northbound travelers should exit to Commercial Street SE, turn right onto Kuebler Boulevard, then return to northbound I-5. Southbound drivers should take Exit 252, turn right onto Kuebler Boulevard, then left onto Commercial Street SE before rejoining southbound I-5.
ODOT advises travelers passing through the area now to expect construction noise, daytime and nighttime crews, various lane, shoulder, and ramp closures as needed, as well as a reduced speed limit of 55 mph in the work zone.
“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,” ODOT urged motorists.
Fines are doubled in all Oregon work zones regardless of whether workers or signs are present.
Pedestrian access—including for those with disabilities—will remain available through or around work zones during construction activities.
Travelers can find real-time travel information including road conditions, traffic cameras, and weather updates at TripCheck.com (https://tripcheck.com), which provides year-round assistance for planning safe trips.
