Realignment Project Update
The work to move the footprint of Rhododendron Drive has begun in earnest. After a week of exploring utilities and some preliminary clearing, K&E excavating is now in the process of building retaining walls on the east side of the street and continues the work of widening and shoring up the west side. The road is still closed to through traffic and only residents in the Marine Manor to 35th street are will be allowed to access the street from 35th street. All other traffic for business continues to be diverted to the ninth street end. Detour signs are up and Kingwood is the through street that bypasses the work area. The city of Florence is providing weekly updates on their Facebook page and you can also sign up to receive email updates.
Trimming Your Trees
City of Florence Code Enforcement wants to remind residents within the city limits that there are regulations concerning trees and grass height. Trees that encroach upon city sidewalks must be trimmed to 8 feet and those that are adjacent to city street must be trimmed to a height of 13’7”. Grass can also be no longer than 12 inches as it would present a fire hazard as warmer, dryer weather approaches. Another issue that the city says has become more frequent is dogs off leash. Dogs must be on a leash unless they are at the designated fenced dog park at 1444 Kingwood street.
Rhody Days
The beginning of the Rhododendron Festival is just over a month away, but discount ticket sales for the annual carnival are now available. They can be purchased online at tickets.florencechamber.com. The Rhododendron Festival officially starts on Saturday May 11th with the crowning of the Queen Rhododendron and the King of the Court. May 16th will be the opening of the carnival. Popular events for the week are the Rhododendron Court, Rhody Days Arts Festival, the Rhody Run 5 and 10 k and the classic car show and cruise. The culmination of events will be with the Grand Floral Parade on Sunday May 19th.
Show and Shine – New Organizers
The 30th annual Rhododendron Festival Car Show N’ Shine will be in new hands this year. The Florence Lion’s Club has accepted the opportunity to host the event. Long time event coordinator Ross Kroenert will be the show’s chairman. The event will be a little bit different this year as it is expanding to all years of American and British cars and trucks and will also be including Volkswagen and Porsche. The Show N’ Shine will once again be hosted by the Siuslaw Middle School in their north parking lot. The event is Saturday May 18th from 9am until 3pm.
