The Oregon Department of Transportation has announced new projects start today to repair and strengthen bridges on Interstate 5 and Rogue River Highway near the City of Rogue River.
ODOT officials said one project will repair the northbound I-5 bridge over Rogue River Highway near milepost 45, which was recently damaged by an over-height load. Starting today, motorist should watch for intermittent lane closures on the highway under the freeway bridge. Delays should be less than 20 minutes.
Repair work may require intermittent closures of the northbound onramp at Exit 45A. All work is scheduled to be completed by mid-December.
Officials said another project will replace three 1920s-era bridges on Rogue River Highway with structures that are better able to withstand earthquakes. The bridges are located east of the City of Rogue River at Birdseye Creek, Foots Creek and Millers Gulch.
Most bridge construction will take place in 2024 -- but before the end of this year, contractors plan to close Highway 99 at each bridge location to prepare the work zones. The closures are scheduled for this week at Millers Gulch, December 4th-7th at Foots Creek, and December 11th-14th at Birdseye Creek.
Interstate 5 will be available as an alternate route. Motorists should watch for construction and detour signs.
