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Hwy 26 closed in both directions near Cedar Hills after power pole fire
KPTV • • nation
Key Points:
- A power pole fire occurred late Monday night on SW Barnes Road near Cedar Hills, leading to lane closures in both directions on Highway 26 near the 217 exit.
- Firefighters quickly controlled the blaze, but the pole threatened nearby MAX train service and caused significant traffic backups during the Tuesday morning rush hour.
- Portland General Electric explained the fire was caused by accumulated dust and debris on the pole insulator, a common issue after dry periods followed by rain, resulting in a "pole top fire."
- Power was restored by early Tuesday morning, but crews are still assessing the pole to determine if it needs replacement.
- MAX Blue and Red line services were disrupted, with shuttle buses operating between Beaverton Transit Center and Galleria/Library stations.
