Temporary traffic directional signs, like this one – which routes four lanes of traffic to what had been two single-direction lanes – have become a common sight along S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses south of Foster Road.

Starting in November, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) “S.E. 82nd Avenue Paving and Safety Improvements Project” got underway.

Those traveling along 82nd Avenue of Roses between Foster Road and the Clackamas County line have likely run into lane closures, as heavy equipment is digging deep under the pavement.

The excavation is relocating underground utilities, and installing new dry sumps to improve drainage on what up till now has been a state highway – but now is being transferred to the Portland Department of Transportation.

While work will likely cease for the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, continue to expect more disruptions – day and night – in early 2024 along S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses at Ogden, Cornwell, Flavel, and Lambert Streets.

Still to come will be pedestrian-safety improvements, including four Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons; upgrades to curb ramps to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements; and new sidewalks in select locations.

There will be temporary pedestrian-accessible detour routes during construction, ODOT officials say, as the final state road improvements are completed before the Portland portion of the road will transfer to the City of Portland.