Highway 138 Has Reopened Around the Jack Fire

Oregon Department of Transportation has announced that highway 138 reopened Friday between Steamboat and Slide Creek after it was closed due to the Jack Fire. Drivers should be careful and watch for crews in the burn area. A temporary 45 mph speed limit is in effect between MP 41-48. “The fire burned in steep, rocky terrain but we didn’t have nearly as many big trees fall across the highway as we’ve seen in previous fires,” said ODOT Interim District Manager Jeremiah Griffin. Several hazard trees and other debris caused by the fire are still on or near the highway, but crews are working quickly to hit the weekend reopening goal. “Reopening a highway after a wildfire is a balance,” said Griffin. “We work closely with our partners in any post fire assessment, and weigh public and worker safety on when to reopen.” Crews are also evaluating burnt signs and sections of guardrail. They are making plans for their replacement. When the highway does reopen, Griffin urged drivers to be careful, watch out for crews and expect delays due to slower speeds in the burn area. Motorists can also expect frequent delays throughout the summer between Idleyld and Steamboat (milepost 21-38) and near Diamond Lake (milepost 76-80) due to rehabilitation work on last year’s Archie Creek and Thielsen wildfires.