I-205 Restrictions and MAX Yellow Line Shuttles Highlight Sunday Commute

Transit and Highway Outlook

Portland travelers should expect a mix of transit delays and highway restrictions this Sunday, February 8, 2026. While overall traffic volume is lighter for the weekend, significant maintenance on the MAX light rail system and ongoing seismic upgrades to the Abernethy Bridge require extra commute time for those moving through the metro area.

Public Transport: MAX Disruptions and Shuttles

TriMet is currently managing two significant service impacts on the light rail system. Commuters using the MAX Yellow Line should be aware that shuttle buses are currently replacing trains between Interstate/Rose Quarter and N Prescott Street. This disruption follows an incident involving a vehicle blocking the tracks near Overlook Park, with cleanup and track inspections continuing through the morning. Please allow at least 20 minutes of extra travel time for the transfer to shuttle buses.

• Orange and Yellow Lines: Both lines are seeing residual northbound delays following a mechanical issue reported near the OMSI/SE Water station. Trains are moving but may be operating significantly off-schedule.
• Bus Service: TriMet bus routes are generally operating on standard Sunday schedules, though lines in Southeast Portland may experience minor reroutes due to local utility work.

Major Highway Projects and Restrictions

On the regional highways, the I-205 Improvements Project remains the primary focus. Crews are continuing seismic work on the Abernethy Bridge between Oregon City and West Linn. Travelers should note the following specific restrictions for today:

• I-205 Northbound: A width restriction of 18 feet is in effect between mileposts 8.5 and 9.5 near Oregon City. This is part of the ongoing effort to make the bridge the first earthquake-ready interstate crossing in the region.
• I-5 Southbound: Near the North Interchange and Rose Quarter, a height restriction of 16 feet 2 inches is active between mileposts 301 and 302. Drivers of over-dimensional vehicles are urged to plan alternate routes.
• I-5 North Interchange: Occasional single-lane closures are occurring as weather permits for the installation of RealTime variable speed signs near the Ross Island Bridge and Terwilliger Boulevard.

Upcoming and Local Roadworks

Looking toward the upcoming work week, preparation for the Devils Lake Fork Bridge repair on OR 6 begins tomorrow. Today, drivers heading toward the coast may see early signage and equipment staging near milepost 32. Additionally, in the Beaverton and Hillsboro areas, the OR 8 (Canyon Road) fiber optic installation continues, with minor shoulder closures that are not expected to cause significant queues but require driver caution.

Motorists are advised to use real-time navigation tools and check for the latest updates before starting their journey. While lighter Sunday traffic helps, the MAX Yellow Line shuttle transition remains the most significant hurdle for those crossing North Portland today.