Drivers traveling Highway 34 between Alsea and Philomath should prepare for delays starting Sunday evening as crews begin chip seal work aimed at preserving the highway and extending its lifespan.
The Oregon Department of Transportation said the project begins with nightly sweeping from 8 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., running each night from July 26 through Aug. 4. The main chip seal application will follow Monday through Thursday, July 27 through Aug. 4, from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
A fog seal is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 3, beginning around 8 a.m. and lasting about six hours. Striping is expected around Aug. 17, with temporary reflective markers in place until then.
ODOT cautioned that the schedule is weather dependent and could be pushed back.
Motorists should expect pilot car escorts and delays through the work zone along with flaggers stationed at many of the intersections to assist local traffic. Drivers at smaller driveways and side roads will see “wait for pilot car” signs and should not enter the highway until a pilot car arrives.
Loose gravel will remain on the roadway until the fog seal is finished, and “loose gravel” and “do not pass” signs will stay posted during that stretch. ODOT advises drivers to slow down, use caution and leave extra space between vehicles, noting that some loose gravel is likely to linger on the road for several days after the work is complete.
Bicyclists should also be prepared to ride over rock chip-covered sections of highway behind a pilot car.
For the latest road and construction updates, check TripCheck.com or call 511.