The westbound lane of the historic Oregon City Arch Bridge is temporarily shutting down as crews begin a 10-day construction effort to install new ADA-accessible ramps on the West Linn side. The closure marks a key phase in the Oregon Department of Transportation’s ongoing push to improve accessibility and safety across major transportation corridors.
The closure went into effect Monday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with the lane expected to remain restricted during those same hours on weekdays until the project is complete. According to ODOT, the work focuses on replacing outdated infrastructure and ensuring the bridge complies with updated federal accessibility standards.
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The improvements will add new ADA-compliant curb ramps designed to give pedestrians and wheelchair users safer, smoother access to sidewalks and crossing points. While the installation may appear small in scale, transportation officials say accessibility upgrades like these are essential for both safety and long-term mobility needs in the region.
Because the westbound lane will be fully closed during construction hours, drivers making the trip from Oregon City into West Linn will need to detour using Interstate 205 to cross the Willamette River. The detour will add extra minutes to the commute, particularly during peak travel times.
ODOT is advising the public to plan ahead. The agency has stressed that drivers should build in additional time each day as traffic conditions fluctuate. As the original report stated, “The Oregon Department of Transportation recommends drivers allow extra time for their commute while the work is underway.”
In addition to the ADA ramps, crews will also be conducting minor structural inspections and surface improvements while the lane is closed. Officials say combining the work minimizes the number of future disruptions to traffic.
The Oregon City Arch Bridge, originally completed in 1922 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a major connector between Clackamas County and West Linn. The bridge carries thousands of vehicles daily and is a vital piece of regional infrastructure—making even partial closures notable for commuters, local businesses, and emergency responders.
City officials and accessibility advocates have welcomed the project, noting that ADA upgrades on older bridges are often complex but crucial. The work aligns with statewide initiatives to enhance walkability and ensure that residents with disabilities can move safely and independently throughout Oregon’s transportation network.
More communication from ODOT is expected as the construction progresses. Drivers can check project timelines and updates through ODOT’s online trip tools and social media channels.
Originally reported by FOX 12 Staff in KPTV.
