A major landslide forced the closure of Northwest Cornell Road in Portland’s West Hills on Friday morning, disrupting traffic and raising safety concerns in the area.
According to the Portland Bureau of Transportation, the landslide occurred around 8 a.m., leaving a significant amount of debris, including fallen trees and dirt, blocking the roadway.
Road Closure Details and Affected Area
Officials confirmed that the closure impacts a key stretch of NW Cornell Road between Northwest Thompson Road and Northwest Westover Road, near the tunnels in the West Hills.
Authorities have prohibited all through traffic, including vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, due to hazardous conditions. However, local access remains open for residents and businesses in the vicinity.
Safety Concerns Prompt Immediate Action
Transportation officials warned that the area remains unsafe because of:
- Downed trees
- Unstable debris
- Potential hazards from nearby power lines
Drivers have been strongly advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes until further notice.
Access Limited Near Bird Alliance Facility
The landslide occurred just east of the Bird Alliance of Oregon property. As a result, access to the facility is currently only possible from the west side, further complicating local travel.
No Timeline for Reopening
Officials have not provided an estimated timeframe for reopening the road, citing ongoing safety assessments and cleanup challenges.
Previous Landslide Still Impacting Nearby Route
This latest incident comes as another section of NW Cornell Road remains closed following a separate landslide earlier this month.
That closure affects the stretch near Northwest Eloise Lane, where heavy rainfall caused road damage and a sinkhole. Local access continues to be maintained in that area as well.
Ongoing Weather-Related Risks
Recent heavy rains in the region have increased the risk of landslides across Portland’s hilly terrain. Authorities continue to monitor conditions and urge the public to stay alert for sudden road hazards.
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