I-5 Shutdown: Chaos, Upgrades, and Workarounds | Portland News

Starting September 11, a major five-week shutdown of southbound I-5 in Portland’s Rose Quarter will disrupt traffic, businesses, and emergency services as crews resurface the road, earthquake-proof overpasses, and upgrade storm drains — the last major work here was in 1985. Trucking companies brace for gridlock rated at seven out of ten, rerouting through congested interstates and deploying relief drivers, while commuters face tripled travel times and backups spilling into neighboring states. Local businesses see customers shift plans, and emergency responders urge caution with clear right-of-way for ambulances. To ease the chaos, officials promote MAX light rail, offer free e-bike and scooter rides, and adjust street signals — even launching bike buses for students. This isn’t the end: northbound lanes are scheduled to close next summer as part of Oregon’s multi-year infrastructure overhaul. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/43d9676d60126847