Beaver State News

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is set to enhance its RealTime system aimed at providing drivers with real-time traffic information, thereby improving road safety and efficiency. The project involves installing RealTime Variable Advisory Speed (VAS) signs along a section of Interstate 5 south of downtown Portland, specifically from the Ross Island Bridge to Terwilliger Boulevard.

To facilitate this installation, ODOT has scheduled weekend construction work that will result in congestion on I-5 southbound. An around-the-clock right lane closure is planned from 8 p.m. on Friday, March 28, until 6 a.m. on Monday, March 31. This closure will stretch from SW Corbett Avenue to SW Terwilliger Boulevard, although ramps will remain open during this period.

Motorists should anticipate congestion and delays on I-5 southbound. Future plans include a similar right lane closure for I-5 northbound, with details to be announced later.

Lane closure dates may change as the project progresses. Additionally, nighttime lane closures on I-5 are expected intermittently throughout the project's duration.

The project also includes up to five nights of full closures of I-5 this summer for the installation of new sign bridges across the interstate. These closures will occur between midnight and 5 a.m., affecting several on-ramps leading to the area. Local traffic can detour via Barbur Boulevard, while regional traffic is advised to use I-205 to I-84 or U.S. 26 to OR 217 as alternative routes.

David House can be contacted for further information at 503-551-8641.