Travelers along U.S. 101 between Bandon and Port Orford should expect traffic congestion and delays the next two weeks as work begins on a culvert replacement project.
Prime contractor Farline Bridge Inc. plans to set up their work zone at the intersection of U.S. 101 and Bearhead Mountain Lane, about six miles south of Bandon, on Monday, Sept. 8.
From Sept. 9 to Sept. 19, the highway in this area will be limited to a single lane as the contractor begins excavation work. Flaggers will provide traffic control 24/7 and travelers can expect delays up to 20 minutes.
The project will replace a failing culvert that is buried about 20 feet below the road surface, where excavation is difficult. The work zone is sandwiched between a steep slope on one side of the highway, wetlands on the other and a stream that snakes its way in between.
Construction will require the full closure of U.S. 101 for one weekend, starting at 9 p.m. on Friday night, Sept. 19. The highway is expected to reopen late Sunday night, Sept. 21.
There are no local road connections around the work zone, nor any alternate facilities for bicycles or pedestrians.
The only available detour on a maintained public road is a lengthy drive along U.S. 199 (Redwood Highway), Interstate 5 and Oregon 42 (Coos Bay-Roseburg Highway). Those who are unable to use the I-5 detour are advised to adjust their travel plans and schedules.
Work will continue for another 2-3 weeks after the weekend closure, with continued lane closures with flaggers and brief delays.
The $1.25 million project is expected to be completed by the middle of October.
For further information, check https://www.oregon.gov/odot/projects/pages/project-details.aspx?project=M25032
