New I-84 Construction Begins Today; Major Ramp Closures Reported on I-205 and I-405

Sunday Commute Overview

Portland commuters should prepare for a mix of new construction projects and active maintenance closures this Sunday, February 1, 2026. While weekend traffic is typically lighter than the weekday rush, significant work beginning today on the I-84 corridor and several high-traffic ramp closures will require motorists to plan alternate routes. Additionally, local weather forecasts indicate a high probability of rain throughout the day, which may lead to slick pavement and reduced visibility on major arteries.

New Construction on I-84

Starting at 7:00 a.m. today, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is initiating a major safety improvement project along the I-84 corridor between downtown Portland and Hood River. Travelers should expect intermittent lane closures and the presence of flaggers at various interchange ramps as crews begin installing new lighting and upgrading signage. This work is part of a long-term effort to enhance safety along the Columbia River Highway and is expected to cause minor delays throughout the day.

Major Freeway and Ramp Alerts

• I-205 Northbound: Maintenance crews have closed Exit 9 (Oregon City/Gladstone). Motorists are advised to use alternate exits. Additionally, two right lanes are closed on the Abernethy Bridge for ongoing maintenance, which is expected to cause slow-downs for those traveling north from West Linn.
• I-405 Southbound: The off-ramp from Everett Street to I-405 Southbound is currently closed for maintenance. Drivers heading toward the South Park Blocks or the West Hills from downtown should seek alternate access points to the freeway.
• I-5 Rose Quarter: While major work on the Rose Quarter Improvement Project is largely overnight, travelers may encounter single lane closures and construction crews near the I-405 interchange. Width and height restrictions remain in place for commercial vehicles in this area.
• US-26 (Vista Ridge Tunnel): The left eastbound lane of the Vista Ridge Tunnel is closed for maintenance. Commuters coming from the Sylvan area into downtown Portland should expect minor bottlenecks at the tunnel entrance.

Public Transit and Safety Reminders

TriMet is operating on its standard Sunday schedule today. While no major service disruptions are reported for the MAX light rail lines this morning, riders should be aware that several bus lines in Southeast Portland and Milwaukie are currently under review for future service changes. Commuters are also reminded that the Portland Police Bureau has entered the final week of a high-visibility seatbelt enforcement campaign. Officers are specifically looking for proper safety belt and child restraint usage through February 8.

Weather and Road Conditions

With a 75% chance of rain forecasted for the Portland metro area today, road surfaces will be wet. Drivers are encouraged to increase their following distance, especially on the I-5 and I-84 interchanges where ponding often occurs. Temperatures are expected to stay in the low 40s, so while ice is not a primary concern in the valley, travelers heading into the higher elevations or the Gorge should carry traction tires as required by current snow zone restrictions.