February 20, 2023 3:40 a.m.

Interstate 5 motorists should expect weekday traffic delays in southern Douglas County for the next two weeks.

Dan Latham of the Oregon Department of Transportation said contractors for ODOT are felling trees along the center median and shoulder of the freeway between Glendale and Azalea. The work is taking place from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Rolling slowdowns will be used in both directions and most delays will last for less than 20 minutes. Southbound traffic will be affected between Canyonville and Glendale while northbound traffic will see slowdowns from Sunny Valley to Quines Creek.

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.

Latham said removing the trees will help improve safety by establishing a clear zone along the freeway’s travel lanes in this area.

Work is slated to conclude by March 3rd.