ODOT: Valley, No. Coast – 09/23/20 2:05 PM
SALEM–OR 22E remains closed indefinitely from Gates Hill Road (milepost 33) in Gates to the OR 22/U.S. 20 intersection (Santiam Junction). Marion County still has the North Fork Road and Pioneer Road closed at OR 22E.
The wildfires damaged or destroyed tens of thousands of trees along OR 22E. These hazard trees are a threat to the road and to the travelers that use it. Crews have been working hard to remove them so we can open up other sections of the highway. Also, miles of guardrail and hundreds of signs have been damaged or destroyed and will eventually need to be repaired or replaced.
ODOT’s immediate goal is to get the hazard trees cleared, and then use pilot cars from the east and west to open these communities while we work on the other repairs. ODOT continues to work closely with the Oregon State Police, and the Marion and Linn County Sheriff’s departments on a daily basis and will continue to coordinate our efforts with them to open up the communities of Detroit and Idanha.
Other highways in the state are closed because of wildfire damage to the roads. ODOT is working to open these highways as quickly and safely as possible to all access to allow for property owners and the communities that were impacted.
On those roads that are open near wildfires, travelers should make sure to drive the posted speeds, exercise caution and be aware of firefighting equipment and emergency vehicles that are still operating in the area.
