Weather Effects Coastal Region
Record rainfall for the Oregon Coast has caused problems for travelers and residents. Overnight Saturday night the storm was responsible for downed power lines on 126 that caused the closure of the road for several hours as crews had to wait for safe conditions to repair the lines. The national weather service has reported 1.74 inches of rain so far and homes along the Siuslaw River in Mapleton have been put on alert for flooding conditions as the river was expected to crest 4 feet over flood level. A flood watch is in effect until 5 pm this evening and a flood warning has been issued for areas close to the Siuslaw River from Florence to Mapleton. A portion of highway 36 near deadwood has also been affected by the rains travel through that area is expected to take up to 2 hours due to a mudslide that has covered a portion of the road. Mapleton Schools have announced a 2 hour delay to the start of school due to road conditions. Oregon highway 38 near Elkton has also suffered a landslide that is effecting travel as the westbound lane is closed.
Storm Damages Wall
The Wall That Heals had its closing ceremony yesterday afternoon, but the wall had to be closed to visitors due to damage it incurred as a result of the storm. A portion of the wall had fallen overnight Saturday and efforts were made to repair the wall for public viewing on Sunday, but it was determined that repairs would not be able to be completed on time. Displays remained open for public viewing.
Planning Commission Meeting
The Florence Planning Commission will be meeting tomorrow evening at 5:30 pm. The commission will be considering resolutions for the planned project known as the Cannery Station which is proposed for the property across from the Fred Meyer store on Highway 101. The Cannery Station Development LLC is looking for final approval for phase one of the project including a 64 bed assisted living facility, 8 single story transitional cottages, a 42 unit, 3 story apartment complex, two duplexes and 2 single story commercial structures.
Community Garden to Move
The Florence Community garden is relocating after 6 years at the location of the former senior center on airport road. The new gardens will be located on 35th and Siano Loop Road. The new area has been prepared by the city’s Public Works Department and there will be 4000 square feet of space available for growing.
Cycling Rules
The City of Florence has issued reminders to motorists and cyclists as we get into the spring and summer season. Bicyclists are reminded that they are considered vehicles and should never ride against traffic. Cyclists are required to follow the same rules as motorized vehicles by riding with traffic even in designated bicycle paths. Motorists are cautioned to be on the lookout for pedestrians and cyclists at all times, but especially around the ReVision Florence streetscape construction.
