Economic Development
The City of Florence’s 2025 Economic Development Annual Report says Old Town has seen targeted improvements aimed at enhancing its role as a hub for tourism and business. Projects include upgraded pedestrian pathways, refreshed public spaces, and improved lighting to make the area more walkable and inviting. Wayfinding signage has been updated to help visitors navigate shops, restaurants, and attractions more easily, while select building facades have received aesthetic updates to preserve the district’s historic charm. City officials say these upgrades are designed to boost visitor experience, encourage longer stays, and support the vitality of local businesses
September 101 Closure
U.S. 101 will be closed between Bandon and Port Orford the weekend of September 19th through 21st for a culvert replacement at Bearhead Mountain Lane, about six miles south of Bandon. With no local roads around the site, drivers will face a lengthy detour via U.S. 199, I-5, and Oregon 42. Crews will dig more than 20 feet to replace the failing pipe, with the location’s steep slope, wetlands, and stream making a bypass impractical. The full closure is expected to save over $1 million and cut months off the project. Single-lane closures will occur before and after the weekend shutdown. Other events that may also cause delays in nearby Coos Bay that week include the Bay Area Fun Festival, the Prefontaine Memorial Run, and Cruz the Coos car show.
Gas Prices
Florence’s average gas price this week is $3.94 a gallon, unchanged from last week. Statewide, Oregon’s average for regular edged up one cent to $3.99, while the national average dipped two cents to $3.14. AAA Oregon/Idaho reports crude oil prices have fallen below $64 per barrel, adding slight downward pressure on prices, though hurricane season could still cause spikes later this summer. Since January, Oregon prices have ranged from a low of $3.45 to a high of $4.07, and this week, 17 Oregon counties are averaging $4 or more.
FRAA Exhibit
The Florence Regional Arts Alliance’s August exhibit at the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce’s Visitor’s Center is themed “Summer Fun,” featuring colorful, tactile works from local artists. Highlights include a whale vase by Siobhan Holden, a felted Gold-Crowned Kinglet bird by Donna Mlinek, and “Tidepool Touch” by Cleo Goss, which invites visitors to explore art through touch. FRAA member Kristin Anderson says the show reflects the variety of art experiences in Florence, from plein air painting to gallery exhibits. The gallery is open to visitors daily, showcasing the work of more than 180 FRAA members and sponsors.
