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Slowdowns needed for safety precautions
For Immediate Release: Nov. 15, 2023
Contact: Anna Howe, 503-877-7101
 WEST LINN – On Thursday, Nov. 16 from 9:30-11 a.m. we’ll conduct rolling slowdowns and area closures near I-205 west of OR 43 in West Linn. Crews are working to detonate what is assumed to be two abandoned blasting caps used during the original construction of the bridge. Plan ahead. Expect long delays.
There is no immediate danger to the public. Further testing determined that these charges need to be addressed quickly, and this will require detonating the old device. Doing so would take about 15 minutes and would occur during the 9:30-11 a.m. window. We will provide additional information if more work is needed.
I-205 Slowdowns:
- Traffic will slow down in both directions – Northbound and Southbound on I-205 allowing for a 15-minute window for detonation to occur. Drivers should expect lengthy delays and are encouraged to plan ahead.
Ramp Closures:
- The onramp from OR 43 and OR 99E to I-205 Southbound will be closed.
- 10th Ave. onramp to I-205 Northbound will be closed.
Drivers should expect lengthy delays and are encouraged to plan ahead.
Restricted Work Zone:
- The 300-foot underground detonation zone will be a restricted access area and will be secured by law enforcement.
Roads Closed in West Linn:
- Roads will be closed to traffic and parking on West A Street and Broadway Street, between Buse Street and Willamette Falls Drive.
Background information:
- During regular construction of the I-205 Abernethy Bridge, crews discovered two abandoned blasting caps near southbound I-205 west of OR 43 in West Linn. We immediately paused construction in the vicinity to investigate further to ensure there was no danger to the public.
- Explosives experts determined that the wires may connect to abandoned demolition charges dating from the original construction of I-205 more than 50 years ago. However, this information is not confirmed.
We’re actively coordinating with local and state-wide elected officials, law enforcement, and first responder agencies prioritizing the safety of all residents and those who use the bridge. Throughout this process, public safety has been at the forefront of all decision-making.
We appreciate our partners and the residents of West Linn and Oregon City for their cooperation planning ahead to avoid the traffic impacts, if possible. More details will be released once available on the project website. We encourage drivers to sign up for project-related email and text message alerts and to check Trip.check.com.
About the I-205 Abernethy Bridge Project
The I-205 Abernethy Bridge Project will bring the first earthquake-ready highway bridge over the Willamette River in the Portland area. New pedestrian and bicycle facilities will increase comfort for people walking, biking, or rolling in these areas, and a new roundabout will reduce crashes and improve traffic flow. Learn more at i205corridor.org
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