Nighttime Lane Closures on I-5 and I-205 Impact Morning Commute; TriMet Alerts for Major Lines

Morning Commute Overview

Commuters in the Portland metro area should prepare for a mix of construction-related slowdowns and transit alerts this Wednesday, January 28, 2026. While the primary highway arteries are moving at typical morning speeds, lingering effects from overnight barrier work on Interstate 5 and maintenance on the Abernethy Bridge may cause localized friction for early risers.

Major Highway and Arterial Updates

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) continues its intensive work on the I-5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project. Drivers should note that overnight lane closures on the I-5 northbound and southbound fast lanes between the Oregon Convention Center and the Burnside Bridge are scheduled to continue tonight, Wednesday, Jan. 28. These closures typically run from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., but early morning travelers should be alert for crews breaking down work zones near the 5 a.m. transition.

• I-205 Abernethy Bridge: Maintenance work has been reported on the northbound side of the bridge, with the right lane previously closed for repairs. Nighttime lane and ramp closures are scheduled to resume at 10 p.m. tonight.
• US-26 (Powell Blvd): Continuous 10-foot width restrictions remain in place between SE 9th Avenue and SE 92nd Avenue. This long-term project is expected to last through late 2026, so commuters with wider vehicles should continue to use alternate routes.
• South Portland: Installation of RealTime Variable Advisory Speed signs between the Ross Island Bridge and Terwilliger Boulevard may result in short-term shoulder closures throughout the day.

TriMet and Public Transit Alerts

TriMet is currently reporting active service alerts across its light rail system. The MAX Blue, Green, and Red lines are all under specific advisories this morning; riders are encouraged to check the TransitTracker for real-time adjustments. Local bus riders should be particularly mindful of Line 72 (Killingsworth/82nd Ave), which currently carries multiple alerts due to ongoing roadway improvements. Additionally, TriMet is currently in a public feedback period through January 31 regarding major proposed service cuts for later this year, including the potential truncation of the Green Line at the Gateway Transit Center.

Local Roadworks and Weather

Within the city, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) maintains a traffic advisory for SW First Avenue, which remains closed north of SW Arthur to SW Sheridan following a previous water main break. Traffic is being detoured to SW Fourth Avenue or SW Naito Parkway. For those heading into the Cascades, ODOT reminds drivers that snow zones are active; carry chains or traction tires if traveling toward Government Camp or Timberline, where spots of ice have been reported on the pavement.