By Garrett Christensen on Wednesday, March 29th, 2023 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
ONTARIO – (Release from ODOT) The Oregon Department of Transportation continues to monitor an active slide adjacent to the eastbound lanes of Interstate 84 near milepost 359.3 (17 miles northwest of Ontario). A 200-yard-long, 100-yard-wide by 30-foot-deep crescent shaped cut was created above the roadway when gravity and soil conditions caused the hillside to move.
The slide has been moving about an inch a day. This could change at any time.
“The slide appears to be contained within the limits of a previously repaired landslide,” said Assistant District 14 Manager Jeff Berry.
The slide was discovered in early February after a covering blanket of snow melted off. It likely occurred sometime earlier this winter.
More rapid movement of the hillside could cover the eastbound lanes and possibly westbound I-84. Crews have been performing emergency repair work near the shoulder of the interstate and are monitoring the site. ODOT is prepared to closed lanes if necessary to protect the traveling public. Data continues to be collected to help facilitate additional repair plans.
Motorists will need to drive with extra caution in this area and be prepared for delays and detours. Travelers should continue to check TripCheck.com for road closure information.