Road repair work on U.S. 26 will begin tomorrow at milepost 13, about four miles east of Necanicum. Crews are scheduled to set up traffic control, install signs, and stockpile materials such as rock and pipe. There may be brief lane closures for preliminary excavation.
Major construction is set to start on Monday, August 18. The project comes after a slide in March forced crews to remove 100 feet of asphalt across all four lanes at this location. According to ODOT geologists, the area experienced an “upside-down slide,” where underground water pressure caused the pavement to heave upward instead of sinking. This ground movement has been more frequent during wet winters and has created sharp bumps in the road that require ongoing maintenance.
A speed advisory of 25 mph remains in effect until drainage repairs and repaving are finished. Drivers are urged to use caution through the work zone and plan for possible delays.
ODOT noted that its current funding crisis is affecting maintenance and operations across the state; however, most projects like this one will continue because they receive separate funding from state or federal sources that cannot be used for daily operations or general maintenance. More information about ODOT’s funding issues can be found on their website: https://www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/funding.aspx.
For further questions about the project, contact Mindy McCartt, Public Information Officer at 503-507-6045 or mindy.m.mccartt@odot.oregon.gov.
