ODOT crews construct a temporary lane over the collapsed stretch of U.S. 101 south of Port Orford. | Photo courtesy of ODOT

From the Oregon Department of Transportation:

PORT ORFORD — One lane of U.S. Highway 101 is expected to reopen by Friday afternoon (Jan. 13) to all traffic following a four-day closure due to a landslide.

We expect one lane will be open tomorrow afternoon but bad weather could disrupt our schedule. Forecasted rain over the next 48 hours may slow work on the temporary lane under construction through the collapsed area of highway. Heavy rain could also saturate the ground and cause the landslide to move again, which would prompt a continuation of the closure.

“We’re hopeful the weather cooperates and we can get the temporary lane finished and open by Friday afternoon,” said Glen Pederson, ODOT district manager. “We know how critical U.S. 101 is for access to local essential services, and we thank south coast residents for their patience this week.”  

U.S. 101 has been closed 12 miles south of Port Orford since early Monday morning. A landslide caused about 200 yards of highway to collapse 15 feet down and slide 12 feet west.

A contractor is building the temporary lane through the collapsed section of highway using rock and gravel. Work began Wednesday and will continue through Friday this week, weather permitting. Traffic will be flagged through the single lane when it reopens, and travelers should expect delays and slower speeds through the area.

Our staff and contractors will be closely monitoring the landslide when the temporary lane opens, watching for any more activity. They may close the highway again with short notice. 

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