About
Project Overview and Background
ODOT is getting ready to improve Interstate 5 over SW 26th Avenue in Portland to ensure its continued reliability for travelers. We will replace the current bridge with a new, improved structure and upgrade SW 26th Avenue with better lighting, bike lanes and sidewalks.
The I-5 bridge over Southwest 26th Avenue was built in 1959 and widened in the 1980s. It carries over 100,000 vehicles per day. Its deck is heavily worn and near the end of its useful life. The project will maintain this important freeway connection and create a smoother ride for travelers while bringing it up to current seismic standards using an innovating construction method that also saves time and money.
Construction will happen in 2023 and 2024. Most traffic impacts will occur under I-5 on local streets, but there will be a weekend full closure of I-5 in 2024. We are working closely with the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) for the portion of the project on SW 26th Avenue.
Project Area Map

Bridge Replacement
Using an innovative method, we will construct a new structure underneath the existing bridge. We will then remove the current bridge and replace it with asphalt paving during one weekend I-5 full closure in both directions.
We chose this option because it means lower costs, shorter construction time, fewer traffic impacts, less nighttime noise in the community, fewer environmental impacts and improved safety for workers and travelers.
The new I-5 structure will look a little different from the bridge currently in place. As the sketch below shows:
- The sides of the structure will be filled in, similar to the look of a culvert or tunnel.
- The structure will be well-lit for the safety of people traveling through it.
- People who walk, bike or roll in the area will have wider spaces for travel, including improved sidewalks and bike lanes.
Visit the online open house to learn more about this innovative construction method and the improvements on SW 26th Avenue.
Collaboration with PBOT
ODOT is collaborating with the Portland Bureau of Transportation on the project elements that affect SW 26th Avenue. This includes connecting to the new multiuse path PBOT is building as part of their OR 99W/SW Barbur Blvd Area Sidewalk Infill Project and adding new sidewalk to continue the connection north to SW Barbur Boulevard. ODOT will connect the end of that sidewalk project through this project's area to SW Barbur Boulevard, thus ensuring continued pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and connectivity along SW 26th Ave.
Location
I-5
|
I-5 | SW Portland
Cost and Funding
The estimated cost to construct this project is $13 million.
Additional Information
For ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) or Civil Rights Title VI accommodations, translation/interpretation services, or more information call 503-731-4128, TTY 800-735-2900 or Oregon Relay Service 7-1-1.
Si desea obtener información sobre este proyecto traducida al español, sírvase llamar al 503-731-4128.
Если вы хотите, чтобы информация об этом проекте была переведена на русский язык, пожалуйста, звоните по телефону 503-731-4128.
如果您想瞭解這個項目翻譯成 繁體中文 的相關資訊,請致電(503)731-4128. 如果您想了解这个项目翻译成 简体中文 的相关信息,请致电503-731-4128.
이 프로젝트에 관한 한국어로 된 자료 신청방법 전화: 503-731-4128.
Nếu quý vị muốn thông tin về dự án này được dịch sang tiếng Việt, xin gọi 503-731-4128.
Qorshayaasha, adeegyada turjumaada/fasiraada, ama wixii macluumaad dheeraad ah ee ADA Title II ama Xuquuqda Madaniga Title VI wac 503-731-4128, TTY (800) 735-2900 ama isticmaal Adeegyada Gudbinta Wararka: 7-1-1.
