Northbound traffic on Highway 395 South makes its way through the area affected by Canyon Creek Complex as the driver of the pilot vehicle prepares to make the trip with southbound traffic.

CANYON CITY – Raelynn Cearns of John Day was working as a contract flagger Saturday on Highway 395 South near Milepost 7.

This was the first time the highway from Canyon City to the Izee/Paulina junction had opened to general traffic, with the assistance of a pilot car, since the Canyon Creek Complex fire blew out of control Aug. 14.

Crews have been busy falling hazard trees along the highway.

Today traffic was running from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., led by the pilot car.

It was an hour, or so, wait for drivers.

The road was closed after 5 p.m. until Sunday morning, opening again at 9 a.m.

Cearns said seeing burned areas was tough for some travelers, especially property owners.

“It’s upsetting,” she said. “I’m getting everyone in and out, and I’ll be here to support them.”

Cearns also occassionally runs a mail delivery route in the area when she fills in for Bill and Bev Davis.

She said she was hopeful the burned areas would grow back in time.

“It won’t ever be the same,” she said.

Another pickup pulled up after the pilot vehicle had already made its way south.

“I’ll be a while,” she said to the driver.

ODOT plans to open the route Monday, if conditions allow.