Beaver State News

In January 2023, a landslide known as the Arizona Landslide closed U.S. Highway 101 roughly 12 miles south of Port Orford for several days. This week marks the beginning of the second phase in the effort to replace the damaged drainage system at this location. The work involves constructing a deep shaft west of the highway, which will serve as a catch basin.

The landslide site has been problematic since the 1920s, with significant slides closing the highway in 1938, 1954, 1978, and 1993. Smaller landslides have frequently necessitated lane closures and emergency repairs. A network of drains and pipes installed uphill from the highway, following the 2023 landslide, are part of the ongoing stabilization efforts.

The new phase involves constructing a vertical shaft approximately 20 feet in diameter and 200 feet deep. Portland-based contractor Condon-Johnson & Associates will move equipment to the site soon and begin construction next week. Work is expected to cost $18.3 million and is scheduled for completion by October 2026. While most of the work will occur off the highway, drivers should be cautious of workers along the shoulder and construction vehicles in the travel lanes.

The landslide site is located half a mile north of the Arizona Beach Recreation Area. Previously installed drains became less effective over time, and the 2023 landslide severely damaged a vertical drainage shaft.

U.S. 101 serves as a vital route for people along the southern Oregon coast. When closed at the landslide site, travelers between Port Orford and Gold Beach must take a detour of 280 miles via Oregon 42, Interstate 5, and U.S. 199.

For further details, contact ODOT Public Information Officer Dan Latham at 541-817-5200 or Dan.Latham@odot.oregon.gov.