I-5 Delays Expected South of Canyonville During Hazard Tree Removal

CANYONVILLE, Ore. - Drivers traveling on Interstate 5 south of Canyonville should prepare for weekday delays beginning Monday, Sept. 14, as crews remove several dozen fire-damaged trees near the highway.

The work is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday through the end of September, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation. Most delays are expected to last less than 20 minutes.

Rolling slowdowns will be used in both directions. Southbound traffic will be affected between mileposts 103 and 95, from Tri City to Canyon Creek. Northbound slowdowns will occur between mileposts 87 and 95, from Azalea to Canyon Creek.

During each slowdown, pilot cars will reduce traffic to a slow but steady pace, giving crews enough time to safely cut down trees without requiring extended highway closures. Emergency vehicles will be allowed through as needed.

Flaggers will also briefly stop traffic at the following southbound on-ramps:

• Exit 103 at Tri City
• Exit 102 at Gazley Road
• Exit 101 at Riddle Road
• Exit 99 at North Canyonville
• Exit 98 at Canyonville
• Exit 95 at Canyon Creek

The northbound on-ramp at Exit 88 in Azalea will also be affected.

The trees were damaged during the Milepost 97 Complex Fire in 2019. Many are now dead or dying and could fall into the interstate’s travel lanes.

Message boards will be placed ahead of the work zone in both directions. Drivers are asked to watch for traffic controls, workers, construction vehicles and debris on the roadway.