ODOT Crews To Close I-5 NB Friday Night, Clear Remaining Drywall Spill

PORTLAND, OR — After drywall compound spilled on Interstate-5 near the Terwilliger Curves on Aug. 3, Oregon Department of Transportation officials planned to let it dry, break up from commuters traveling over it, then wash away with rain. On Friday, ODOT officials announced that plan wasn't really working out.

Because the drywall hasn't broken up as expected, officials now fear any precipitation could lead to slippery conditions in the area. So tonight at 10 p.m., ODOT crews will close northbound I-5 lanes at exit 297 in order to give them time to pressure-wash the roadway.

Late night northbound commuters will be detoured at exit 297 to the onramp on the other side of Southwest Terwilliger Boulevard. Officials expect all northbound lanes to reopen before 5 a.m. (see Google Map example of possible detour route.)

I-5 southbound lanes will not be affected, officials said.

Photo Courtesy: Oregon Department of Transportation