Truck.Net

La Grande, OR - November 13, 2008 - During winter freeway closures between Pendleton and La Grande, the Oregon Department of Transportation will be directing eastbound trucks to park along the right shoulder of Interstate 84 near the Exit 216 Interchange. The Exit 216 Interchange is where Oregon Highway 331 crosses over the freeway, adjacent to the Arrowhead Truck Stop and Wildhorse Resort and Casino. It is the last freeway exit before eastbound traffic heads up Cabbage Hill towards La Grande.

"When the eastbound lanes of the freeway are closed we block traffic at Exit 216," said ODOT Pendleton Maintenance Manager Robin Berheim. "Vehicles will still be able to exit the freeway, but for trucks that plan to wait for the route to open, we will direct them to park on the right shoulder."

During road closures variable message signs along the freeway will be used to instruct truck drivers where to park.

"ODOT crews will do everything they can to keep the roads open and safe during winter storms, but there will be closures at times and there isn't much room for trucks to park once they get off the exit," said Berheim. Parking at the Arrowhead Truck stop is also limited due to remolding work and construction activities.

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Oregon Department of Transportation 
Eastern Oregon - Region 5
Morrow, Umatilla, Wallowa, Union, Baker, Grant, Harney, and Malheur Counties
Date: Nov. 12, 2008 NR number: 08111215
For more information: Tom Strandberg - (541) 963-1330