PORTLAND, Oregon — A full day of sun on Friday helped the roads loosen up and get safer, but there are still plenty of trouble spots after Wednesday’s snowstorm across the Portland metro. And something people often say is that the roads don't seem as bad in Washington as they do in Oregon.
So, is there a difference between the two states when it comes to clearing the roads?
Oregon Department of Transportation’s Don Hamilton said despite problem spots it is much better, and like a stunned prize fighter, Oregon is making a comeback.
“It was a really hard hit that we took and I think that we're recovering from it right now. And I think just 24/48 hours later and we're coming out of it.”
It is a far cry from late Wednesday night into Thursday when it was chaos and gridlock. But a lot of people who drive on both Oregon and Washington roads told KGW that it's often better up in the evergreen state, especially along Interstate 5.
“Well Portland very clearly has traffic issues and it does clear up a lot as soon as you cross over,” said Lucian Ray, who drives in both states.
Ray doesn't blame ODOT, he just thinks there's more challenges in Oregon compared to Washington.
Hamilton agreed with that, and explained it further, saying “Clark County is mostly flat and straight. In Portland and the Portland area we have a much more complicated system with a lot more bridges, a lot more flyover ramps, and a lot more interstate highways that we have to deal with.”
Hamilton also said the Portland side has a lot of commercial truck traffic-with many truck drivers not chaining up, causing huge backups.
KGW also checked in with the Washington Department of Transportation. Its spokesperson Kelly Hanahan said their snow load was less this time around, and there are other factors.
“I think we just had a little bit easier; snow levels were different, elevations different, geographies different, so Washington to Oregon is really an apples to oranges comparison,” said Hanahan.
Commuter Sara Tyree isn't convinced. She said her interstate commute from Beaverton to Washington state on Wednesday was a complete nightmare.
“The difference is dramatic. You hit Washington and the roads are maintained,” said Tyree. She said her drive took seven and a half hours, with gridlock in Oregon Wednesday.
One thing is for certain: both transportation agencies were pleased with Friday’s sunshine, as they prepared for whatever winter brings this weekend.