The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is spearheading a transformative infrastructure project along U.S. 101 in downtown Garibaldi, Oregon, targeting mileposts 54.8 to 55.9. With a budget of $14,462,625, funded through state and federal transportation programs, this initiative aims to address critical issues with degraded pavement and non-compliant accessibility features. The project, which began construction in 2024 and is slated for completion by Fall 2025, will enhance safety, accessibility, and functionality for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and those using mobility devices. This detailed overview covers the who, what, when, where, and why of this significant undertaking, providing a comprehensive look at its scope, impacts, and anticipated benefits.
The primary motivation for the project stems from the deteriorating condition of U.S. 101’s pavement in Garibaldi. Years of wear have left the road surface uneven and prone to further damage, reducing its lifespan and creating potential hazards for users. Additionally, the slopes at crosswalks along this stretch fail to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, posing challenges for individuals with mobility needs. These issues prompted ODOT to launch a multi-faceted improvement plan to modernize the corridor, ensuring it serves the community effectively for years to come.
The scope of work is extensive, addressing both surface-level and structural deficiencies. ODOT’s plan includes repaving the entire section of U.S. 101 within the project area, followed by the application of new, high-visibility striping to improve lane clarity and driver safety. Accessibility upgrades are a cornerstone of the project, with new ADA-compliant curb ramps being constructed at rail crossings on 3rd Street and 7th Street. These ramps will provide smoother transitions for wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges. New sidewalks will also be built along the corridor, spanning from 1st Street to 11th Street, creating safer and more comfortable pathways for pedestrians.
Public transit users will benefit from the addition of designated bus stop pull-out locations, which will allow buses to load and unload passengers without obstructing traffic. Navigation through downtown Garibaldi will be improved with enhanced street signage, making it easier for residents, visitors, and tourists to find their way. Finally, the project includes upgrades to the water drainage system to mitigate flooding risks and protect the newly paved road from water-related damage. Together, these improvements aim to create a safer, more accessible, and more resilient downtown corridor.
The project’s timeline reflects years of careful planning and execution. The design phase, which included engineering studies, community input, and regulatory approvals, ran from 2019 to 2023. Construction began in 2024 and is expected to conclude in Fall 2025, with crews already making significant progress. A key milestone is the upcoming paving phase, set to start as early as next week, weather permitting. Paving is a critical component of the project, as it will restore the road’s surface and set the stage for subsequent improvements like striping and signage. However, this work is highly weather-dependent, and ODOT is prepared to adjust schedules to ensure optimal conditions for paving.
Construction activities are scheduled Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., to minimize disruption to evening and weekend traffic. However, the project will have notable impacts on the community. Lane closures will be in effect 24 hours a day during active construction periods, with flaggers and pilot cars guiding vehicles through the work zone. This setup ensures safe passage but may lead to delays, particularly during peak travel times. Side streets within the project area will be closed, requiring local traffic to use alternate routes. Pedestrian access will also be affected, with temporary sidewalk closures and detours implemented as needed to maintain safety.
Noise from construction equipment and activities is another expected impact, particularly for residents and businesses near the work zone. Despite these disruptions, ODOT has emphasized that all businesses in the project area will remain open and accessible throughout construction. This commitment is crucial for Garibaldi’s economy, which relies on local commerce and tourism, especially along the scenic U.S. 101 corridor. To keep the community informed, ODOT offers project email alerts, allowing residents and stakeholders to receive real-time updates on traffic impacts, construction milestones, and schedule changes. Interested individuals can sign up through ODOT’s project website.
The project’s $14,462,625 budget underscores its scale and significance. While specific funding sources were not detailed, such initiatives typically draw from a combination of federal highway funds, state transportation budgets, and local contributions. The investment reflects ODOT’s commitment to improving Oregon’s infrastructure, particularly in coastal communities like Garibaldi, where U.S. 101 serves as a vital economic and social artery.
By Fall 2025, the completed project will deliver a revitalized U.S. 101 that meets modern standards for safety and accessibility. The new pavement and striping will provide a smoother, safer driving experience, while ADA-compliant ramps and sidewalks will ensure the corridor is welcoming to all users. Bus stop pull-outs will enhance public transit efficiency, and upgraded signage will make downtown Garibaldi more navigable. Improved drainage will protect the infrastructure from environmental wear, extending its lifespan and reducing future maintenance costs.
For Garibaldi’s residents, businesses, and visitors, the project represents a significant step forward. The upgraded corridor will support the town’s role as a coastal destination, attracting tourists who travel U.S. 101 for its scenic beauty and charming communities. At the same time, it will address long-standing accessibility barriers, making downtown more inclusive for people of all abilities. While the construction period will require patience and adaptability, the long-term benefits—a safer, more functional, and more inviting downtown—promise to outweigh the temporary inconveniences.
ODOT’s proactive communication strategy, including email alerts and project resources, ensures that the community remains engaged and informed throughout the process. For those seeking additional details, such as detour routes or specific construction updates, ODOT’s project website and alerts provide a direct line to the latest information. As Garibaldi’s U.S. 101 transformation progresses, this project stands as a testament to the power of targeted infrastructure investment to uplift a community.
