Starting July 28, Wiltsey Street SE in Salem will be closed at the Battle Creek Road SE intersection. This closure is part of a project to widen a portion of southbound I-5 from Kuebler Boulevard to Delaney Road. The closure is expected to last up to nine months, allowing materials to be brought in for building the elevation of the intersection for a new roundabout.
Motorists are advised to detour around the Wiltsey Street SE closure by taking 36th Avenue SE north to Kuebler Boulevard. During this period, Battle Creek Road SE will remain open until it is ready to connect with the new roundabout.
Drivers on I-5 can expect construction noise and crews working both day and night. There may also be lane, shoulder, and ramp closures as needed, with a speed limit of 55 mph in the work zone.
Funding issues have impacted ODOT’s maintenance and operations; however, most construction projects like this one continue as planned due to separate capital programs funded by state or federal funds that cannot be redirected for other uses. Despite these challenges, delays may still occur because of a reduced workforce affecting traffic control and inspections.
ODOT encourages drivers to pay attention in work zones, slow down, move over when necessary, and remember that fines double in all Oregon work zones regardless of whether workers or signs are present.
For more information about road conditions and traffic alerts, visit tripcheck.com or call 5-1-1. Additionally, travelers should note that those aged 18 and older now need federally accepted ID for boarding commercial U.S. flights.
For ADA Title II or Civil Rights Title VI accommodations or additional information call TTY (800) 735-2900 or use the statewide Oregon Relay Service: 7-1-1.
“Don’t keep this a secret – help us spread the word,” urges ODOT officials. They encourage sharing this information with friends, family, and neighbors so they can sign up for email updates on ongoing work.
