U.S. 30 to N. Oregon Coast Reopens to One Lane and Only at Night

Published 12/04/22 at 6:39 PM
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Astoria, Oregon) – One route to the north Oregon coast and Astoria is partially opened back up after a major landslide this week – but only at night. U.S. 30, the long, winding stretch that takes its time to get from the edges of Portland to Astoria, will still be closed during the day, which is the only time crews can work on the hazardous debris area. (Photos courtesy ODOT)

Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) said U.S. 30 will have one lane open with flaggers, from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. This starts Sunday night. Crews still must remove large amounts of rock from the side of the cliff, at this site about 20 miles east of Astoria.

“There is no estimate when we can reopen U.S. 30 in the daytime too or when we can reopen more than a single lane with traffic flaggers,” ODOT said.

This still leaves the usual route to Astoria – U.S. 26 – as the best way to get there or the rest of the Oregon coast.

ODOT said if you plan to utilize U.S. 30 at night along with its single lane, use extra caution. Drive at slower speeds and watch for the flaggers. You can also expect major delays.

The landslide happened November 29, taking out a semi truck with it, after heavy rains loosened the hillside and rocks, then winds came along to shake trees loose - as well as the soil. The drive was not injured, say Oregon State Police.

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Crews are still rapelling down the sides of the cliff to remove large sections left behind by the landslide. It is extremely dangerous work requiring daylight hours, which is then coordinated with cleanup crews below in order to keep them safe.

This is not the average landslide ODOT usually deals with along the Oregon coast.

“It is too dangerous and complicated to run traffic during the day,” ODOT Maintenance District 1 Manager Mark Buffington said Sunday. “We are attempting to bring in another team of scalers tomorrow hoping to double our efforts.”

Traveling through this area at night is not ideal, ODOT admits. But it is necessary in this case to provide relief to motorists who need to use this route and create some mobility for the freight hauling industry as repairs continue.

ODOT is also concerned about the safety of travelers as this snow and cold weather season has started in earnest, especially in the Oregon Coast Range where some warnings still exist.

“Slow down in wintry weather and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles,” ODOT said. “Remember, it takes longer to stop in wet and/or freezing conditions. Also bring traction devices if you cross snow zones and know how to use them.” Hotels in Astoria - Where to eat - Astoria Maps and Virtual Tours

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