Major Highway Ramp Closures and TriMet Service Changes Impacting Monday Commute

Morning Commute Overview for Monday, March 2, 2026

Good morning, Portland. As we begin the first full work week of March, commuters should prepare for significant changes both on the road and on public transit. Today marks the start of several major ramp projects on I-205 and follows a series of TriMet service reductions that went into effect yesterday. Whether you are driving from the suburbs or taking the bus through North Portland, your usual routine may require some adjustments this morning.

Highway Alerts: I-205 and I-84

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has initiated several construction projects starting today that will affect night and early morning travel. Commuters should be aware of the following:

• I-205 Southbound: Intermittent closures of the Exit 8 off-ramp to OR43 in West Linn and the Exit 9 off-ramp to OR99E in Oregon City begin today. While primary work occurs overnight (10 p.m. to 5 a.m.), early morning travelers may encounter lingering restrictions or narrow lanes.
• I-84 Troutdale to Corbett: Expect lane and shoulder closures in both directions as crews perform critical culvert repairs. This work is part of a larger project to prevent erosion and is expected to cause periodic delays through the spring.
• US 30 (NW St. Helens Road): Safety improvements continue between NW Bridge Avenue and NW Kittridge Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures and pedestrian detours during your midday travels.

TriMet Service Reductions Now in Effect

Following the March 1st schedule update, transit riders will notice changes aimed at addressing budget gaps. Key impacts for Monday morning include:

• Frequency Changes: Lines 8, 48, 75, and 76 are now running less frequently during early morning hours. If you rely on these lines before 8 a.m., please check the updated schedules to avoid long waits at the stop.
• Line 24 Reroute: In North Portland, Line 24-Fremont/NW 18th has a new permanent route. Service on N Kerby Avenue and N Russell Street has been eliminated to speed up transit times. Eastbound stops have shifted, so verify your stop location before heading out.

Local Roadworks and Neighborhood Delays

Within the city limits, PBOT is active with several projects. The N Willamette Boulevard Active Transportation Corridor project is causing frequent lane closures and flagging between N Rosa Parks Way and N Richmond Avenue. Additionally, the Outer Powell Project continues to impact US 26 from SE 99th to SE 174th Avenue with ongoing road construction. PBOT also reports gravel street maintenance in the Brentwood-Darlington and Montavilla neighborhoods, which may lead to 20-minute delays for local residents.