Southbound I-5 in Portland Faces Extended Closures for Updates
Southbound Interstate 5 in Portland is experiencing significant closures for up to five weeks of necessary updates, primarily affecting the area near the Broadway and Burnside Bridges. Drivers can expect doubled or tripled commute times due to lane closures and…

Portland, OR, September 13, 2026 —
Motorists traveling southbound on Interstate 5 (I-5) in Portland should prepare for substantial disruptions as significant closures are scheduled for necessary updates. The affected area is primarily concentrated near the Broadway and Burnside Bridges.
The construction and update work is expected to last for up to five weeks. During this period, drivers are advised to anticipate considerable delays. Commute times in the affected corridor could potentially double or even triple compared to normal travel durations.
The closures will involve lane restrictions and ramp limitations, contributing to the expected congestion. Authorities recommend exploring alternative routes to mitigate the impact of these I-5 closures.
Suggested alternate routes include utilizing Interstate 405 (I-405) or transitioning to surface streets. Key surface streets mentioned for alternative travel are Weidler and Broadway.
Additionally, specific detour routes are being provided for drivers who need to access Interstate 84 (I-84) during the period of I-5 closures. Further details on these specific detours were not provided.
The duration of these necessary updates highlights a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving the roadway. Drivers are encouraged to plan their travel accordingly, allow for extended travel times, or consider alternate modes of transportation if feasible.
Story summarized from the original created by Vince Ybarra on www.kptv.com, see more information here.