September 4, 2024 9:30 a.m.

The Intersection of Oregon 38 and Cedar Street in Drain will become a permanent four-way stop on Thursday.

Dan Latham of the Oregon Department of Transportation said the new sign is being installed in an effort to improve traffic safety in Drain. Latham said for several decades, the intersection has been a three-way stop. Vehicles on eastbound Oregon 38 and in both directions of Cedar Street were required to stop, while westbound Umpqua Highway travelers could continue straight or turn on Cedar without stopping.

Latham said this has caused confusion for drivers unfamiliar with the intersection. Some eastbound highway drivers would pull into the intersection without realizing that oncoming traffic could legally turn in front of them without stopping.

As part of the change, the highway’s westbound and eastbound turn lanes will be removed. A single lane from each direction will enter the intersection.

Latham said the elimination of the turn lanes and addition of the stop sign could result in additional traffic congestion through town at peak times. Drivers are advised to use caution through the intersection as others become aware of the new traffic control change.