January 12, 2023 11:10 a.m.

One lane of U.S. Highway 101 about 12 miles south of Port Orford, is expected to reopen by Friday afternoon, following a 4-day closure due to a landslide.

Matt Noble of the Oregon Department of Transportation said bad weather could disrupt the schedule. Noble said rain is in the forecast through Saturday, which may slow work on the temporary lane that is under construction through the collapsed area of the highway. Noble said heavy rain could saturate the ground which could cause the landslide to move again. That would prompt a continuation of the closure.

ODOT District Manager Glen Pederson said, “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”.

The closure began early Monday morning when the landslide caused about 200 yards of highway to collapse 15 feet down and slide 12 feet west. Noble said a contractor is building the temporary lane through the collapsed section of highway using rock and gravel. Traffic will be flagged through the single lane when it reopens. Travelers should expect delays and slower speeds through the area.

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