October 31, 2022 3:30 a.m.

Motorists on Interstate 5 should expect weekday traffic delays through southern Douglas County for the next two months, due to hazard tree removal.

Dan Latham of the Oregon Department of Transportation said starting Tuesday, contractors will fell trees along the highway that were damaged in 2019 by the Milepost 97 Complex Fire south of Canyonville. Latham said the work is scheduled for weekdays between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. and will continue through the end of the year.

Rolling slowdowns will be used in both directions and drivers should expect delays of up to 20 minutes. Southbound traffic will be affected between Weaver Road and Canyon Creek Pass, while northbound traffic will see slowdowns from Quines Creek to milepost 97, near Canyon Creek Road.

Latham said flaggers will hold traffic at each on-ramp in these areas for 10 to 20 minutes.

The work may also require lane and shoulder closures in both directions. Motorists should watch for construction vehicles entering and exiting the travel lanes.