Hazard tree removal planned for OR 18-Van Duzer State Scenic Corridor

Oregon Department of Transportation sent this bulletin at 04/22/2013 10:32 AM PDT

 

April 22, 2013                                                       For more information: Rick Little (541) 726-2442

04-82-R2                                                             email at: mailto:richard.little@odot.state.or.us 

                                                                          

 

Hazardous tree removal to restrict OR 18 in the Van Duzer State Scenic Corridor

 

GRAND RONDE--The Oregon Department of Transportation, working with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, will allow a contractor to remove wind damaged trees that pose a threat to traffic along Highway 18 in the Van Duzer State Scenic Corridor between Grand Ronde and the coast.

 

Tree removal work will begin the week of April 29, 2013 and take 7 days, weather permitting. The project will occur on OR 18 (Salmon River Hwy), at milepost 16.5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursdays and 9 a.m. till noon on Fridays. During those times, the highway will be restricted to a single lane of travel at the location.

 

Approximately 60 trees on one acre will be removed. A wind event last winter left the trees leaning and the trees’ roots exposed.    The so-called “root-sprung” trees pose a threat to the highway and motorists in the event of high winds.   The trees will be sold to the timber contractor by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Proceeds will be invested back into state park natural resource projects and operations.

 

Flaggers will control travel through the area in alternating directions. Motorists should expect 10-15 minute delays. Motorists are reminded to take note of roadside warning signs and protect workers by driving with exceptional care when approaching a work site.

 

Should an emergency occur, the lane restriction will be lifted and full traffic will be restored.

 

Media Contacts:

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

Chris Havel, 503-986-0722 (desk), 503-931-2590 (cell)

 

Oregon Department of Transportation

Rick Little, 541-726-2442 (desk), 541-505-2069 (cell)

 

 

Know Before you Go

 

To get an update on current road conditions, visit: www.tripcheck.com

 

 

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