Abernethy Bridge Reopens Following Overnight Sign Removal

Overnight Abernethy Bridge Closure Set to Wrap Up for Tuesday Morning Commute

Commuters in the Portland metro area should prepare for a relatively smooth Tuesday morning, though major overnight projects on the city’s interstate system require attention from early travelers. As of 5:00 a.m. this Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the full closure of the Abernethy Bridge on I-205 is scheduled to be lifted, restoring vital access between Oregon City and West Linn.

Interstate Updates: I-205 and I-5

The overnight closure of the Abernethy Bridge was necessary to facilitate the removal of an old sign structure as part of the ongoing I-205 Corridor Improvement Project. While the bridge is scheduled to be fully open for the peak morning rush, drivers are advised to remain alert for any lingering shoulder work or equipment being moved off the site. Additionally, the I-205 northbound Exit 9 off-ramp to OR 99E remains under a nightly closure schedule, typically ending at 5:00 a.m. to accommodate ramp improvements.

On Interstate 5, the Rose Quarter Improvement Project continues its steady pace. Commuters should expect nightly lane closures on both northbound and southbound lanes between the Oregon Convention Center and the Burnside Bridge. These closures are scheduled from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. throughout the week for critical barrier work and striping. While these restrictions are designed to lift before the core morning commute begins, late-night workers and early birds should plan for minor delays through the Albina area.

Further south on I-5, the installation of RealTime Variable Advisory Speed signs is ongoing between the Ross Island Bridge and Terwilliger Boulevard. This project includes daytime shoulder closures and occasional nighttime lane restrictions aimed at improving safety and reducing rear-end collisions by providing real-time traffic speeds to approaching drivers.

TriMet Service and Local Roadwork

Public transit users should be aware that TriMet is currently in the final days of a public feedback period regarding major proposed service cuts for late 2026. Among the proposals is a significant change to the MAX Green Line, which could see trains terminating at the Gateway Transit Center, requiring a transfer for those heading to downtown Portland or Portland State University. Commuters have until January 31 to submit their feedback via official channels regarding these and other proposed route eliminations.

Weather Impact and Evening Forecast

While the morning drive looks to be dry, local forecasts indicate that rain showers are expected to return by Tuesday evening. This transition could create slick conditions for the drive home, especially during the sunset hours. The Portland Bureau of Transportation also continues standard winter maintenance, including gravel street servicing and base repairs in Southeast and Northeast neighborhoods, which may cause minor disruptions on local side streets during daylight hours.