EUGENE, Ore. — A sudden landslide has forced the evacuation of three homes in Eugene’s Moon Mountain neighborhood, leaving residents displaced and crews scrambling to stabilize the area. The landslide, which occurred on March 16, caused the ground beneath the homes to shift, triggering significant structural concerns. As crews continue to work long hours to assess and stabilize the area, it remains unclear what caused the sudden shift in the soil.
The homes, located on Rockcress Street, were built by Monte Vista Homes, which stated that the cause of the landslide is still under investigation. The company has hired geotechnical engineers and soil stabilization experts to determine the reason for the land movement and prevent further damage to nearby properties.
Moon Mountain is classified by the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries as having moderate to high landslide susceptibility. Despite this classification, Monte Vista Homes assured that the lots had been properly engineered, approved by the City of Eugene, and deemed suitable for construction when purchased in 2022.
“Our first priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of the homeowners,” said Luke Pickerill, the owner of Monte Vista Homes. “It’s incredibly disruptive to have residents evacuated from their homes, and we’re doing everything we can to support them during this difficult time.”
Since the evacuation, crews have worked around the clock, conducting 10 to 12-hour shifts to reinforce the remaining homes. Two of the homes have been stabilized, but the third, situated in the middle of the three affected properties, has been deemed irreparable and is set to be demolished next week.
“We’ve been in emergency mode for the past week,” Pickerill added. “Our focus has been on stabilizing the homes that remain standing and preventing further damage.”
The company has enlisted the help of two independent geotechnical engineering firms, as well as specialists in soil stabilization. The experts are currently drilling borings and collecting soil samples to determine the cause of the landslide. Preliminary assessments suggest that underground water flow may have eroded the soil beneath the homes, weakening their foundations and contributing to the slide.
The investigation is ongoing, but experts believe that understanding the precise cause will be key to preventing further incidents in the area. Meanwhile, the displaced residents are being provided with support and assistance as the situation continues to unfold.
As crews work to stabilize the site and gather information, Monte Vista Homes has promised to keep the community updated and ensure that the affected homeowners are taken care of.
