By Steve Fox, Principle Broker/Owner, Pinot Noir Properties
Living in the Willamette Valley wine region certainly has its perks. The great wines, friendly people, unique towns and beautiful scenery make this area truly unique.
But we’re also out in the country. And though I wrote in our last blog about how the pandemic has changed employment scenarios for many workers – i.e., working remotely – there are still a good many folks who need to commute to larger employment areas such as Portland.
Well, there’s some recent news I wanted to share that I consider to be a long-term positive for many of us who need to jump in our cars. I ran across this article that details the exciting progress regarding the next step in completing the Newberg-Dundee bypass.
A Little Bypass History – and Why it Matters
For those of you not familiar with the bypass – or are new to the area – Phase 1 was completed in early 2018. The current four-mile expressway extends from OR 219 to OR 99W south of Dundee, with one travel lane in each direction.
Prior to the completion of this phase, drivers heading to and from the I-5 highway would have to stay on OR 99W, which was slowed by traffic lights, maintenance projects, and slow speed limits through towns. Once opened, the bypass helped reduce traffic congestion and improved the livability and overall traffic flow in the surrounding communities.
The planned phase 2 will extend the bypass from Highway 219 to Highway 99W at Rex Hill. In the coming years, the full 11-mile bypass will become a four-lane expressway, with two lanes in each direction, from Dayton to just east of Newberg.
This will decrease drive times for those heading toward I-5, and Portland. As the article states, decades of work and financial contributions by local jurisdictions have helped move the project forward. It’s all good – especially for commuters!
How About the Oregon Coast?
Another perk to being a Willamette Valley resident is our proximity to the Oregon Coast. From most areas, it’s an easy – and picturesque – drive from the population centers and vineyards of the valley to the breathtaking scenery and cozy towns along the Pacific Ocean. And once you’re there you’ll have plenty of time for walking on the beach, exploring the unique seaside towns, and enjoying a leisurely lunch or dinner.
A few of my favorite locations along the coast include Cannon Beach, Yachats (pronounced “YAH hots”), and Newport.
Lincoln City is another coastal favorite. Not just because of the great restaurants and beautiful beach but because of the scenic one hour drive from most towns in the Willamette Valley. It’s an excellent day trip and will take you from vineyards to farmlands to forest to shoreline.
In addition to the towns I’ve called out above, there are also a wide range of beaches, state parks, hiking trails, campgrounds and picnic spots that make the coast a true destination for a day, weekend, or a week. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it.
And because of the Willamette Valley’s location, we’re miles closer to the coast than folks in Portland and areas to the east. That means less time on the road, and less traffic (since you can get to where you’re going earlier).
Well I hope you enjoyed my little travelogue. So until next month’s blogs, cheers!