MAX Blue Line Disruptions and I-205 Lane Closures Impact Tuesday Commute

Morning Commute Overview for Tuesday, March 10

Portland commuters are facing a complex Tuesday morning as a combination of public transit disruptions and major highway construction projects impact the metro area. While weather conditions in the valley remain mostly cloudy with light rain, travelers heading into the higher elevations must contend with winter weather advisories. Local traffic is notably constrained on several key arteries, including I-405 and the I-205 corridor near the Abernethy Bridge.

TriMet Service Alerts and Transit Changes

The most significant disruption for public transit users this morning is on the MAX Blue Line. Due to police activity blocking the tracks near East 148th Avenue, shuttle buses are currently serving stations between Gateway/NE 99th Ave Transit Center and East 162nd Avenue. Riders are advised to board MAX Red Line trains at Gateway North for service into Downtown Portland and should expect delays of at least 20 minutes. Additionally, riders should be aware that recent budget-related service changes are now in full effect. This includes the elimination of stops along North Kerby Avenue and North Russell Street on Line 24-Fremont/NW 18th, and reduced frequency on Line 8-Jackson Park/NE 15th during off-peak hours.

Highway Impacts and Major Roadworks

• I-405 Northbound: The Exit 1B off-ramp to 4th Avenue is currently restricted to a maximum width of 13 feet. This restriction is in place 24 hours a day through March 16. Wide-load drivers should seek alternate routes.
• I-205 Improvements: Travelers in the West Linn and Oregon City areas should expect significant activity near the Abernethy Bridge. Daytime flagging is scheduled on Clackamette Drive from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. all week. Southbound nighttime lane closures will also resume this evening starting at 8:00 p.m.
• I-5 Rose Quarter: Ongoing seismic retrofitting and sign installation continue to cause nighttime delays. Drivers should watch for lane closures on I-5 Northbound between Exit 302C and Greeley Avenue between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
• I-84 East: Lane closures at the McCord Creek Bridge mean traffic is reduced to a single lane in both directions. This is a 24/7 restriction intended to facilitate bridge replacement work.

Regional Travel and Safety Advisories

For those planning to travel east of the city, the National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the Cascades. Up to 10 inches of snow are possible at elevations above 3,000 feet, which may make travel through mountain passes difficult. Closer to home, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) reminds residents that the "Safe Ride Home" program for the upcoming St. Patrick's Day period begins this Friday, offering discounts on taxis and rideshares to discourage impaired driving during the holiday festivities.