After four years of engineering studies and community engagement, construction is set to begin in May for transportation improvements around the Nyberg Road/Tualatin-Sherwood Road/I-5 interchange.
The project will:
- Add a third eastbound lane from Martinazzi Avenue to I-5.
- Repave and restripe lanes for more efficient traffic flow.
- Enhance directional signage.
- Improve bicycle access and safety throughout this corridor.
Eastbound drivers will see a new lane created by narrowing the median. The directional signage and lane markings will guide drivers into the correct lane and minimize last-second lane changes approaching the north- and south-bound I-5 ramps.
Mike McCarthy, PE. Tualatin City Engineer, predicts this signature transportation project will make travel here safer and more predictable: “The project will deliver a series of small, strategic changes that ensure this congested area operates more smoothly.”
The payoff will be significant time savings for drivers. Travel time from Boones Ferry Road to I-5:
Morning rush hour ✓ Reduced from 6.5 minutes to 4 minutes
Afternoon rush hour ✓ Reduced from 8 minutes to 6 minutes
For people who ride bikes in this area, the eastbound bike lane, which currently squeezes between two lanes of traffic, will be moved next to the curb. A new signalized crossing will help bicyclists safely cross the I-5 southbound ramp. In addition, new buffered bike lanes and signage will direct bicyclists to the existing Tualatin River Greenway path that connects underneath I-5—a much safer and more pleasant route through the area.
Most of the construction will be done at night. Work will be completed by the end of the year. “This is our City’s busiest intersection, navigated every day by almost every Tualatin resident. I can’t wait to see the results in time savings and reduced congestion,” says Tualatin City Manager Sherilyn Lombos.
The $2.7 million project is funded by Tualatin Moving Forward. In May 2018, Tualatin voters approved this $20 million bond program to fund projects that relieve congestion, improve neighborhood traffic safety and provide safe access to schools and parks. Now, 24 projects are complete and another 12 are underway.
