No ETA to open I-84 or Histroic Columbia River Highway due to fire

Oregon Department of Transportation sent this bulletin at 09/06/2017 05:42 PM PDT

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Sept. 6, 2017

For information: Angela Beers Seydel, 541-505-2069. Angela.Beer-Seydel@odot.state.or.us

 

No ETA to open I-84 of Historic Columbia River Highway due to Eagle Creek Fire

Plans in the works to remove hazards before opening

 

 

ODOT is working closely with our partners to determine when the 45 mile section of Interstate 84 and the Historic Columbia River Highway, between Hood River and Troutdale, currently closed by the Eagle Creek Fire can be safely opened.

Safety of first responders and travelers is the number one priority. We are taking the following steps to ensure that the highway is safe for travel:

Assess and remove danger trees: Over 2,000 trees have been identified as being in danger of falling into I-84.  We are working with forestry professionals to assess burned trees and make plans to remove those that are dangerous. Wednesday morning crews began to perform assessments in safe areas. Due to fire conditions, this assessment is only taking place from the road and not along the slopes above the highway. The number of trees is likely to rise and it will take time to remove them.

Assess rock slopes and remove rocks in danger of falling: We are hiring contractors to assess the rock slopes that tower over the highways and remove rocks before they can fall into the roadway. This work is expected to take place over the next few days, as conditions allow.

Evaluate bridges and tunnels:  Our Bridge Inspectors are working to evaluate the bridges  on I-84 to ensure that structural damage did not occur in the fire. At this time, bridge damage has not been found along I-84. Crews will continue to look at the Tooth Rock Tunnel along I-84 eastbound outside of Cascade Locks.

As these assessments continue, ODOT is determining the time needed to safely address these hazards. This is occurring as of Wednesday afternoon and will continue as long as needed. Having I-84 and the Historic Columbia River Highway closed is difficult on everyone who lives in, travels through, or loves the beauty of the Columbia Gorge. Once it is safe to complete these steps, we will have the roadways open as quickly as possible.

 

Check TripCheck.com for road conditions.

 

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