I-5 Rose Quarter construction impacts

September 03, 2026

Ride to Care expects construction in the I-5 Rose Quarter area will make travel difficult beginning in mid-September. We are sharing this to help you understand how this may affect your non-emergent medical transportation (NEMT) services.

What is happening?

  • The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) will be closing certain exits of Highway I-5 through Portland’s Rose Quarter as part of a construction project.
  • I-5 Southbound closure: I-5 southbound lanes between I-405 and I-84 will be closed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is expected to last 5 weeks.
  • Closure dates: The closure will begin at 10 p.m. on Friday, September 11. The project will last until early October. Some ramps may close as early as 9 p.m. on September 11.
  • For more details about this closure, sign up for updates by email or text on the project website: https://i5rosequarter.org/

What should members expect?

  • Longer & extended travel times: Travel times may be 2-3 times longer than usual because of traffic and detours. You may need to leave earlier to arrive on time for your appointment.
  • Potential delays: Expect delays through the Rose Quarter or surrounding area.
  • Limited same-day service: Plan your trips in advance. We might not be able to accept same-day requests.
  • More shared trips: Trips may be shared with other members
  • Trip updates or reassignments: We may need to change your pickup time. We will tell you about any real-time delays or changes on the day of your trip.

Please remember:

  • Let your health care providers know if you will be late due to traffic delays.
  • Be patient with Ride to Care staff and drivers.
  • Let Ride to Care know if your driver hasn’t arrived.
  • Call Ride to Care about any other issues.

Ride to Care is working hard to avoid delays or other issues. Call Ride to Care at 855-321-4899 if you have questions about your trip.

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