Sea Lion Caves Rock Wall, Dec. 8

It was built during the Depression. The overall project included a tunnel, a bridge, and a two-lane highway carved out of sheer rock. During the construction of this five-mile segment of Hwy. 101 in Western Lane Co. it picked up a moniker, “The Million-Dollar-Mile.” At the time, the north-south highway construction was the most expensive mile of road construction nationwide that involved Bureau of Public Roads participation. But, that expensive project has led to scenic enjoyment by thousands of motorists and passengers for more than 75-years on the Central Oregon Coast. This section of US 101 is also one of 25 designated scenic highways in Oregon. Many will argue that it is the best. Accenting this portion of the coastal highway route is the Sea Lion Rock Wall. It is all that separates the vehicles from the Pacific Ocean far below. The years have taken a toll on the hand-built wall. A restoration/replacement project currently underway was let in late August and is expected to be completed in 2016. Most sections of the wall will be replaced with original rocks; however, some of the sections will be concreted filled with a rock facing. Interpretive signing will complete the little over $3 million project. Flaggers are controlling the single-lane offered during the construction period 24-hours a day.