A series of long-term ramp closures at the Interstate 5/Interstate 84 interchange in Portland this summer is expected to significantly impact C-TRAN’s Express service to downtown Portland. Major gridlock is possible, and riders should be prepared for delays and plan for extra time.
The Oregon Department of Transportation is repairing the ramps that connect I-5 and I-84, which will require closures in July and August. Ramps will be closed on the following dates:
- Sunday, July 8, to Monday, July 23: The ramp (Ramp C) from southbound I-5 to eastbound I-84 will be closed all hours. The closure begins at 10 p.m. July 8 and continues 24/7 through 5 a.m. July 23.
- Wednesday, July 25, to Monday, August 6: The ramp (Ramp A) from westbound I-84 to northbound I-5 will be closed all hours. The closure begins at 10 p.m. July 25 and continues 24/7 through 5 a.m. August 6.
- Friday, August 17, to Monday, August 27: The ramp (Ramp B) from westbound I-84 to southbound I-5 will be closed all hours. The closure begins at 10 p.m. August 17 and continues 24/7 through 5 a.m. August 27.
- Ongoing: The ramp (Ramp D) from northbound I-5 to eastbound I-84 will intermittently close overnight for the duration of the project, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. hours only.
C-TRAN response: C-TRAN Express routes will serve all stops as usual, but buses will generally avoid the I-5/I-84 interchange on their way to and from downtown Portland to avoid the worst of the gridlock. C-TRAN also stages additional buses in Portland to pick up commuter trips when resources allow. However, riders should expect significant delays on all Portland-area freeways during the work period, which will impact C-TRAN service. Commuters should consider using MAX as an alternative if possible.
Overnight I-5 closures: ODOT also plans to repave I-5 between the Fremont Bridge and Marquam Bridge, which will mean full weekend closures of I-5 in July and August. These closures are not expected to create additional impact to C-TRAN service.
The schedule is weather-dependent and may be subject to change. We ask riders for flexibility and patience as we navigate this. For questions or trip planning assistance, please call C-TRAN at 360-695-0123.
More information about the project is available at www.bigfixpdx.com.