GRAND RONDE–A contractor will be removing wind damaged trees next week that pose a threat to traffic along Highway 18 in the Van Duzer State Scenic Corridor between Grand Ronde and the coast. Tree removal work will run between April 29 and possibly as late as May 7th, milepost 16.5, 9-4 Monday through Thursday, and 9-12noon on Friday. Weather could also affect work days. During work hours the highway will be restricted to a single lane of travel at the location. Watch for flaggers. Expect 10-15 minute delays.

Approximately 60 trees on one acre will be removed. A wind event last winter left the trees leaning and the trees’ roots exposed. The so-called “root-sprung” trees pose a threat to the highway and motorists in the event of high winds. The trees will be sold to the timber contractor by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Proceeds will be invested back into state park natural resource projects and operations.

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From ODOT

Portland-area travelers should carefully evaluate Wednesday morning travels plans if the forecast of one to two inches of snow on the valley floor proves accurate.

The National Weather Service is predicting snow in the northern Willamette Valley Wednesday morning with greater accumulations at the higher elevations. By mid-morning, however, the snow is expected to turn to rain, reducing the dangers on the highway.
The snow could snarl the morning commute. Travelers should check road conditions Wednesday morning and, if warranted, consider leaving later, taking mass transit or staying home.

Motorists should:
* Check road conditions at TripCheck.com and by listening to local newscasts.
* Allow extra stopping distance between you and the vehicles ahead. There’s less traction on slick, snowy roads. Fender-benders are expensive, painful and delay everyone on the road with you.
* Make sure your vehicle is in top operating condition, with clean headlights, good brakes, working windshield wipers and good tires.

Bicyclists should:
* Be extra cautious when stopping and turning on slick roads where bicycles, cars and trucks are less predictable and more prone to skid.
* Wear the right clothing for cold weather, including a good wind jacket, gloves to protect the hands and a helmet with an ear covering.
* Use the right equipment, including sturdy tires, a reflective vest and a bright halogen light on the front with a red light on the back.
* Traveling on slick roads is unpredictable so everyone on the road should be extra cautious, be prepared and help everyone reach their destination safely. Know before you go.

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3:16pm
Report just in that traffic at the north end of the Yaquina Bay Bridge is being affected by a disabled tow truck. Expect delays.

3:25pm
They got the truck moved. It’s cleared.

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