Q: What improvements are currently under construction?

ODOT is widening and upgrading the Abernethy Bridge to withstand a major earthquake, improving interchanges at OR 43 and OR 99E, and upgrading on- and off-ramps to increase safety. A sound wall near southbound Exit 9 is also part of the project.

Q: Why was it necessary to close the on-ramp from northbound OR 43 to northbound I-205?

Previously, there were two I-205 northbound on-ramps. One served northbound OR 43 and the other served southbound OR 43. We closed, and will eventually demolish, the northbound I-205 on-ramp from northbound OR 43. Traffic accessing northbound I-205 from OR 43 in both directions now uses a roundabout. Consolidating these two separate northbound access points eliminated the merging and weaving that occurred on I-205, which reduces rear-end crashes and improves traffic flow.

Q: What can travelers expect while the Abernethy Bridge is under construction?

Two lanes in each direction of I-205 will remain open during weekday business hours. Travelers can expect lane closures, directional and some full closures with signed detours at night or on weekends. Local roads will also experience lane closures and other traffic restrictions. Traveler information signs in the area, the project website, and TripCheck will inform drivers of construction impacts.

Q: Will there be a toll on this bridge?

In March 2024, at the direction of Governor Kotek and the Oregon Transportation Commission, we have stopped work on a regional toll program. We are working with the Oregon Legislature to receive direction on how to pay for the project, which may include alternative funding sources, direction to resume tolling, or direction to reallocate funding from other projects in the region.