Chip seal work to begin on U.S. Hwy 26 in Grant, Baker, Malheur counties
By Logan Bagett on Monday, June 1st, 2026 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
JOHN DAY – (Press Release from the Oregon Department of Transportation)
Travelers should expect daytime lane closures and delays on U.S. 26 in Grant, Baker and Malheur counties starting June 8 for chip seal operations. The project extends from Austin Junction to Ironside, mileposts 191.5 to 231.
Chip seal helps protect and extend the life of the existing road by applying oil, covering it with rock chips and pressing the material into place with rollers.
This work is expected to be done by July 3. Crews will return in July or August to apply permanent striping, with all project activities scheduled to wrap up by the end of August.
Travel impacts
Please slow down and use caution in chip seal work zones. Allow extra travel time and watch for crews and equipment.
What to Expect
Flaggers and pilot cars guiding single‑lane traffic.
Delays of up to 20 minutes.
Reduced speed limits.
Loose rock on the road for several days after ship seal work.
Possible nighttime or early morning delays while crews sweep the road.
Travelers should reduce speed and leave extra space between vehicles to help prevent windshield damage from loose rock.
People biking through the area should be prepared to ride on chip-covered pavement behind a pilot car. Shoulders may be temporarily unusable.
If possible, consider an alternate route to avoid delays.
Ranchers, farmers and property owners
Avoid using the impacted highway sections with farm equipment during the work and for two days after.
Adjust irrigation pivots and lawn sprinklers so water does not reach the roadway.
If you plan to move livestock along these highway sections, please contact us in advance so we can help you do so safely. Contact ODOT Chip Seal Coordinator Zackary Wyllie at 541-620-2673, or zackary.wyllie@odot.oregon.gov.
Stay in touch
Visit the project webpage: Region 5 Chip Seal Projects.
View project map: U.S. 26 chip seal map 2026 U.S. 26 chip sea map 2025.
Check TripCheck.com for up-to-date traffic impacts during construction.
Contact Vicki Moles, Community Affairs Specialist, at 541-620-4527 or vicki.l.moles@odot.oregon.gov.
