 A zipper merge is now in place for eastbound Oregon 42 as traffic approaches the northbound Interstate 5 on-ramp. New signs and pavement markings encourage drivers in both lanes to take turns merging.
NEWS RELEASE
Zipper merge now in place for Oregon 42 drivers
Sept. 17, 2026
GREEN DISTRICT – A zipper merge is now in place for drivers traveling Oregon 42 from Winston to Roseburg.
New signs and pavement markings were added early this morning directing eastbound Oregon 42 drivers to take turns merging near the bridge over Interstate 5, where two lanes narrow to one.
Under the old pattern, most drivers would get in the left lane miles before the merge point. The lane imbalance often stretched back to Kelly’s Corner and beyond, creating congestion, causing delays and affecting operations at upstream intersections.
Drivers are now encouraged to use both lanes all the way to the merge point, then take turns merging like the teeth of a zipper.
Cooperation is the key to making the new system work. Neither lane has priority. The new signs and pavement markings suggest that drivers in both lanes need to move over.
ODOT has a few recommendations for sharing the road:
- Stay in either lane all the way to the merge point.
- Use your turn signal when you see the white arrows on the pavement.
- Allow space between vehicles so other drivers can merge.
- Don’t block vehicles trying to merge from the other lane.
- Be patient with other drivers as they adjust to the new pattern.
A list of frequently asked questions is available on the project web page. For more information, contact ODOT Public Information Officer Dan Latham at 541-817-5200.
## ODOT ##
 Drivers are encouraged to use both lanes of eastbound Oregon 42 past Grant Smith Road, then take turns merging when traffic narrows to one lane near the northbound Interstate 5 on-ramp.
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