Protecting the river and its users

From ODOT-

With warmer weather and sunshine ahead, we expect to see more of you boating or floating down the Willamette River and through the work zone.



As you enjoy the river, please remember that you are in an active construction zone when passing through our project and that means paying more attention to safe navigation.



If you enter the river east of Interstate 5 and float under the bridge construction project, signs in the river will direct you to the correct channel and where to cross under the work bridge. Keep to the north bank, or the right side of the river, to pass safely under the work bridge at the designated spot.



From the river, it might seem like you can pass under the work bridge in other locations. However, the combination of the strong current, construction pilings and trapped or floating debris in the river create additional hazards. Also, the old dam structure upstream of the bridge makes it hard to find your way to the correct channel, so move to the north bank early so you can maneuver under the safest part of the work bridge.



Please remember to watch for signs that point river users to the correct channel to safely pass under the bridge construction. It’s also a good idea to check with local boating organizations or the Oregon State Marine Board about changing conditions before heading out on the river for a day of fun.



Here are some photos that show you what to expect to see when you approach the I-5 Willamette River Bridge project.



Upstream of the I-5 bridge construction work, a sign at the old dam structure directs river traffic to the safe channel on the right.

These signs show boaters where to pass safely under the workbridge.