The I-5 Rose Quarter Closure Is Coming. Here’s How Employers Can Get Ahead of It.
Starting September 11, 2026, Portland will experience one of the most significant transportation disruptions in recent history. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will close all southbound lanes of I‑5 through the Rose Quarter between I‑405 and I‑84 for up to five weeks, while crews work around the clock.
For employers, this closure isn't just a transportation issue—it's a workforce issue. Employees may face longer commutes, unpredictable travel times, and increased stress getting to and from work. Businesses that plan ahead can help employees stay productive, reduce disruption, and maintain operations throughout the closure.
That's where Get There Portland Metro can help.
What's Happening?
The closure is part of the broader I‑5 Rose Quarter Improvement Project, which aims to improve safety and reduce congestion where I‑5, I‑84, and I‑405 converge while reconnecting the historic Albina neighborhood with a future highway cover over a portion of I‑5.
In addition to the long-term improvement project, ODOT must complete overdue repairs to a section of freeway that has developed cracks, ruts, and potholes. ODOT determined that a continuous five-week closure would be safer for workers and drivers, allow the work to be completed more quickly, and save millions of dollars compared with months of weekend or lane closures.
Travel impacts are expected to be significant. ODOT estimates travel times could take two to three times longer than usual if travelers continue using their normal routines.
Learn more at i5rosequarter.org
Help Your Employees Navigate Their Commute
You know your workforce best. Whether you're supporting shift workers, office employees, or teams spread across multiple locations, there are practical steps you can take to help employees find reliable, affordable ways to get to work during the closure and beyond.
Get There Portland Metro provides free resources, tools, and personalized support to help employers identify commute solutions that fit their workforce, without having to build a program from scratch.
Customized Commuter Resources for Your Workforce
Every workplace is different. A healthcare employer with shift workers has different transportation needs than a downtown office or warehouse operation.
Get There Portland Metro can help employers explore strategies such as:
Transit benefit and pass programs
Carpool and vanpool promotion
Flexible scheduling options
Employee commute challenges and incentives
Telework and hybrid-work where feasible
Educational materials and employee outreach resources, including attending worksite travel options or open enrollment events
Employee commute surveys and assessments
The goal is simple: help employees find options that make commuting easier during the closure and beyond.
Connect with a commute specialist today–we’re here to help you prepare! Contact Us — Get There Portland