River Levels Dropping; Highway 34 Partially Open

People looking at high water flowing over the highway just east of Corvallis

10:00 a.m. April 12 Update: Water levels have dropped enough to allow the Oregon Department of Transportation to partially re-open Highway 34 just east of the bridge into Corvallis. The highway had been closed for two days amid widespread flooding. The bypass remains closed.

All city streets that had been closed are now cleaned and open for traffic.

Sandbag locations, as well as the latest information about high water and road closures, is available on the the Public Works website.

For localized flooding on city streets, you are encouraged to assist by clearing blocked storm drains of leaves and debris, when possible. However, you should NOT remove any storm drain covers or grates.  If a storm drain on the street within the Corvallis city limits is completely plugged, please contact Corvallis Public Works at 541-766-6916.

If the natural drainage systems (urban streams) reach capacity, water may pond in the street, causing a hazardous condition. Drivers are urged to obey barricades and high water signs, avoiding these areas, and to drive with caution, especially at night. The City closes streets when dangerous conditions exist and vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians should stay out of the area for their own safety. Driving through high water also causes wakes that could damage houses and property nearby.

Higher river levels will cause the City’s drainage system to operate more slowly as there is no place for the water to go.  If you have a concern about potential flooding on your property, you can obtain sand and bags at the following locations. Please remember to bring your own shovel to fill the bags:

  • Wilson Elementary‑‑2701 NW Satinwood St., south parking lot. 
  • Cheldelin Middle School‑‑987 NE Conifer Blvd., west parking lot.
  • Lincoln Elementary‑‑110 SE Alexander Ave., parking lot off SE 3rd St. 
  • Corvallis High School‑‑1400 NW Buchanan Ave., in east parking lot located off of 11th St.
  • Grant Avenue Baptist Church‑‑1625 NW Grant Ave., in back parking lot off of 17th St.
  • Corvallis 509J School District Office‑‑1555 SW 35th St., west parking lot located behind bus shelter on 35th St.

For information about street conditions within the Corvallis city limits, call the Public Works Department at 541-766-6916. For information about road conditions in Benton County outside the city limits, call Benton County Public Works at 541-766-6821. Corvallis area state highway information may be obtained by calling the Corvallis office of the Oregon Division of Transportation (ODOT) at 541-757-4211. Other state highway information is provided by ODOT in recorded messages updated 5 times daily at 800-977-6368.

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