Earthquake Shakes Ocean Floor
A 6.2 magnitude earthquake has struck off the coast of Oregon at 1:30 this morning. According to the USGS the earthquake was about 170 miles due west of Florence at a depth of 6 miles. There is no tsunami threat according to officials at USGS. The quake occurred along the northeast side of the Blanco Fracture Zone
Increased Traffic Enforcement Through Labor Day
Increased traffic patrols are being conducted as the travel season winds down as the labor day weekend. The Florence police department says they are working to increase proper safety belt and child seat use during a statewide enforcement blitz. The focus will be from now until September 3rd in cooperation with the Oregon State Police and Lane County Sheriffs. Officers will also be on the alert for persons exceeding the posted speed limit and those violating the “hands free” cell phone law. Funds for this program are from a grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Air Quality Issue
Air quality continues to be an issue throughout the day today. Residents with lung and heart issues are encouraged to stay inside. Lane County Officials warn that surgical masks and bandanas do not filter out particulates and can give a false sense of protection if used. Proper respirators can be used but must be properly fitted.
Wastewater Service Extension Planned
The City of Florence is moving ahead with plans to extend water and wastewater services east on Highway 126 and north on highway 101 past existing services. This has been part of the city’s economic development plan and according to Mayor Joe Henry the city believes it will stimulate economic growth and open up some properties for affordable housing which is in critical need. The city is also pursuing a grant to upgrade crosswalks and sidewalks. The safe Routes to School grant could provide as much as 400 thousand dollars to install and improve walking routes to schools.
The School Bond advisory committee has several meetings scheduled with local groups to provide information on the need for a new school and the importance of passing the bond that will be on the November ballot. There is a meeting scheduled today with the Kiwanis club at Ocean dunes, the Florence area chamber of commerce on September 5th in the Bromley Room at the Library and Florence Rotary on September 25th. That presentation will be held at Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue. Groups interested in hearing the presentation are encouraged to contact the schools district office. The committee will also be continuing its Thursday meetings at the district office at 2111 Oak Street at 5:30 and the public is welcome to attend.