Update: 11 a.m., January 31, 2024
Work to remove the debris is under way. The road remains closed on Wednesday to all traffic.
When the road is reopened, we will announce it on our social media platforms and at www.cityofsalem.net.
Update: 9 a.m., January 30, 2024
The engineering evaluation of the hillside is complete and a contractor has been secured to remove overhanging rock from the bluff above River Road S beginning Wednesday, January 31st.
Once it is determined to be safe and clean-up activities are completed, the City of Salem will open the roadway.
Thanks for your patience.
Update 4:40 p.m., Monday January 29, 2024
Thank you for your patience. River Road S remains closed to traffic, bicyclists, and pedestrians from Owens Street S to Minto-Brown Island Road S due to a rock slide that occurred over the weekend.
A geologist and members of Salem's Engineering team have completed their evaluation of the rock slide impacting River Road S. The evaluation revealed sections of the hillside that will require further work to remove loose rock before the street can be reopened to north and southbound traffic safely.
A contractor has been secured by the City of Salem to remove the remaining debris and is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, January 31.
Update 11:30 a.m. Monday, January 29, 2024
A geologist and engineering team are evaluating the slide this morning, including conducting drone flights over the top of the bluff looking for signs of ground instability.
Once that evaluation is complete and a plan of action is determined to make sure the hillside is safe, the City of Salem will begin clearing the slide, repairing the fencing, and reopening the road.
Thank you for your patience. Minto-Brown Island Park is still open and accessible by using Madrona and Croisan Creek Road as a detour.
River Road South between Owens Street SE and Minto Island Road SE is closed to all traffic due to a landslide.
After the recent freezing and thawing weather, combined with yesterday's heavy rain, an estimated 30 cubic yards of debris has fallen on the roadway blocking both lanes of traffic on River Road S. This closure will remain in effect while cleanup and geotechnical assessment activities are taking place.
The posted detour route includes Croisan Creek Road S to avoid the impacted area. Additional information will be posted as it becomes available.
The Current Road Conditions Map on the City of Salem website provides up-to-date information on scheduled or emergency road closures in Salem. For additional information, please contact the City of Salem at 503-588-6211 or service@cityofsalem.net.
