CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. — A portion of Commercial Street in Astoria continues to be closed between Fourth and Fifth streets due to a shallow landslide.
At a meeting Monday night, Public Works Director Jeff Harrington told the Astoria City Council that city staff are continuing to monitor the area.
No structures appear to be in danger, Harrington said, adding that what they’re seeing is not a reactivation of any deep landslide.
The area was closed earlier this month because of initial slide activity on Fifth Street.
“It’s basically weathered siltstone,” Harrington said, adding that over time, the siltstone weakens and then something — groundwater, trees swaying in the wind — triggers movement.
The city has removed some trees, following recommendations from a geotechnical engineer.
Before the city reopens the street, Harrington said they will need to monitor the area through a rainy period to see if there is any more land movement.
He expects the city will work to stabilize the area in the fall.