New Construction Zones on I-84 and I-205 Lead Monday Traffic Changes

Smooth Monday Morning, but New Construction Zones Loom
Portland commuters starting their work week on Monday, February 2, 2026, should prepare for significant changes in traffic patterns as several major infrastructure projects launch today. While the morning rush is expected to follow typical patterns, new work zones on I-84 and I-205 will impact travel throughout the day and into the evening hours.
New I-84 and I-205 Projects Launch Today
- I-84 at Sandy River Delta (Exit 18): Starting today at 7:00 a.m., crews begin construction on a new multi-use path near the pedestrian tunnel. Commuters using the westbound exit to the Sandy River Delta should expect delays and periodic single-lane closures on Jordan Road, with flaggers directing traffic as needed.
- I-205 Abernethy Bridge: A new phase of intermittent width restrictions begins tonight. Southbound traffic at the bridge in Oregon City will be restricted to 18 feet between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Additionally, expect nighttime lane closures on I-205 northbound and a ramp closure from OR-43 to the interstate tonight.
Continuing Highway Maintenance and Lane Shifts
In addition to the new projects, several ongoing safety improvements continue to affect major arteries in the metro area:
- I-5 Rose Quarter: Overnight work on the Rose Quarter Improvement Project continues. Expect fast-lane closures in both directions between the Oregon Convention Center and the Burnside Bridge from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. for barrier work.
- I-5 South Portland: Maintenance crews continue installing RealTime Variable Advisory Speed (VAS) signs between the Ross Island Bridge and Terwilliger Boulevard. Drivers should watch for short-term overnight lane and shoulder closures that improve real-time traffic flow alerts.
- US-26 (Powell Blvd): Significant construction continues between SE 52nd and SE 92nd avenues. Travelers should expect continuous 10-foot width restrictions and possible 20-minute traffic holds during daytime hours.
TriMet and Public Transit Alerts
Commuters utilizing public transit should be aware of ongoing discussions regarding significant service reductions proposed for later this spring. TriMet is currently finalizing a plan to address a $300 million budget gap, which may impact future frequency on the MAX Green Line and several East Portland bus routes. Furthermore, following demonstrations in the South Waterfront area late last night, Portland Streetcar and bus service near Elizabeth Caruthers Park may experience residual delays this morning as city crews clear debris from surrounding streets including South Bancroft.
Local Roadwork and Air Quality
In Washington County, a new water main relocation project begins today on Blanton Street near 209th Avenue, resulting in daytime lane closures from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Finally, an Air Stagnation Advisory remains in effect for the region. While this primarily impacts air quality, commuters should be mindful of reduced visibility during early morning hours due to fog and trapped pollutants.