I-5 Southbound in Portland to Reopen More Than a Week Early

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) announced October 7 that southbound Interstate 5 through Portland's Rose Quarter will begin reopening earlier than originally scheduled.

The highway has been closed since September 11 for major structural repairs. Crews will begin removing traffic barriers and restoring road markings around 10 p.m. October 7, with traffic expected to start returning around midday Thursday, October 8.

The project included replacing damaged concrete, repairing bridge reinforcement and installing new bridge joints and safety barriers. ODOT completed the main work more than a week ahead of schedule.

Some lanes and ramps will remain temporarily closed during the reopening process. Truck drivers should check TripCheck before traveling through Portland. Overnight lane closures will continue during later construction phases, and a similar closure of I-5 northbound is planned for summer 2027.