Phoenix interchange opens; watch for single lane I-5 northbound traffic

Oregon Department of Transportation sent this bulletin at 02/09/2016 04:26 PM PST

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February 9, 2016                                                                                                                 R3-12-16

 

Phoenix interchange opens; watch for single lane northbound I-5 traffic

PHOENIX – Wednesday night, the permanent new I-5 exit 24 northbound on-ramp will open to traffic, the initial step to the partial opening the new Diverging Diamond Interchange by early Thursday morning.

 

“With the dry weather, the contractor’s able to stripe the interchange to get it open to traffic,” said Project Manager Tim Fletcher.

 

The partial opening will allow traffic to cross the new interstate bridge plus access the Phoenix exit 24 ramps to and from Medford.

 

Beginning Wednesday night through Friday, I-5 northbound traffic will be in a single lane so traffic on the new northbound on-ramp can accelerate in the northbound I-5 slow lane. This will allow construction workers to complete the new on-ramp’s connection to I-5.

 

During the transition, drivers should be mindful of the traffic control changes and the I-5 construction speed limit of 50 MPH. Watch for possible congestion and delays during this transition.

 

On Friday, the temporary northbound off-ramp will open to traffic using Pear Tree Lane and South Phoenix Road.

Diverging Diamond Interchange

The Diverging Diamond design provides more traffic capacity and safety for motorists. To enter I-5 or cross over the interchange, drivers will move to the left side of the bridge, which reduces the number of signal phases a driver needs to clear.

Project Background

The $72 million Fern Valley Interchange project began in spring 2014. Due to its size and complexity — encompassing east and west Phoenix roadways, I-5 and Oregon 99 — the project requires more than two full construction seasons for completion. More information is online at the project website: http://www.oregon.gov/odot/hwy/region3/pages/fvi_index.aspx.  ##ODOT##

 

GARY LEAMING, PIO

Voice: (541) 774-6388; Cell: (541) 621-3074

Gary.W.Leaming@odot.state.or.us