BEND, Ore. — Drivers in Bend can expect a slight shift in timing for upcoming traffic changes on Franklin Avenue, though city officials say the broader construction schedule continues to move ahead faster than expected.
On Thursday, the City of Bend announced that the planned detour direction switch — originally set to occur sooner — will be pushed back due to a contractor-related delay. The adjustment affects the ongoing reconstruction work between Fourth Street and Eighth Street, where traffic has been restricted to one-way during construction.
Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 5, the one-way flow will change from westbound to eastbound, allowing crews to shift their focus to the north side of the corridor. The eastbound-only setup is expected to remain in place through early December, depending on weather conditions.
“This switch is necessary to allow for construction work on the north side and remaining areas. Access to local businesses and residential properties will be maintained throughout construction, and appropriate signage will be in place to guide the traveling public through the work zone,” the City said in its release.
Despite minor setbacks, officials emphasized there is no threat to the overall completion date. The Franklin Avenue upgrades — which include new sidewalks, pedestrian access improvements, and roadway resurfacing — are still projected to finish in early December, weather permitting.
Franklin Avenue is a major link between downtown Bend and Highway 97, and the improvements under construction aim to:
Local businesses along the corridor remain open throughout construction, and the city continues to encourage residents to support them despite changing traffic patterns.
As crews approach the colder months, project managers will monitor conditions closely. A shift to snow or freezing temperatures could impact paving and striping work if prolonged, but the city says contingency plans are already in place.
Residents can stay updated through the City of Bend’s transportation newsletter and project webpage until all lanes reopen to normal traffic.
Originally reported by Central Oregon Daily News Staff in Central Oregon Daily News.
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