October 6, 2025 – Eastern Oregon — The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced that curb ramp construction in Northeast Oregon will continue into 2028, focusing primarily on Pendleton, with additional work in Haines, La Grande, Sumpter, and other communities in Union, Baker, and Wallowa counties.
“As part of this effort, we’re reviewing all ramps in Region 5 to make sure we didn’t miss any locations,” said Vicki Moles, Community Affairs Specialist.
Some ramp locations were delayed in earlier projects due to permitting challenges or utility conflicts, while a few ramps that were upgraded previously will require repairs. Curb ramps are critical for wheelchair users, pedestrians with mobility challenges, cyclists, and anyone using strollers or handcarts, providing safe and accessible transitions between sidewalks and roadways.
ODOT has outlined a multi-phase construction schedule to systematically address the region’s accessibility needs:
Initial Pendleton ramps where intersections are ready for construction. Remaining locations with obstacles such as fire hydrants, utility boxes, and power poles will be completed in later phases.
Upgrades along Emigrant and Dorion avenues in Pendleton, with bids requested in October 2025 and construction expected in spring and summer 2026.
Ramps in Haines, La Grande, Sumpter, and remaining sites in Union, Baker, and Wallowa counties. Bids will be requested in March 2026 with construction extending from summer 2026 into 2027.
Return to Pendleton for ramps along Court, Emigrant, Dorion, Westgate, and Northgate avenues, with projects out for bid in October 2026 and construction planned for 2027 and 2028.
Continued work in Pendleton along Frazer, Emigrant, and Dorion avenues, plus upgrades in Echo, Hermiston, La Grande, and Huntington. Bids will be requested in March 2027, with construction in fall 2027 through 2028.
“These factors affect when and where we can build,” Moles added. “We start with the locations that are ready. The ones that need more planning or coordination will be constructed during later phases.”
ODOT’s curb ramp program is part of a broader effort to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility across Oregon, in alignment with state and federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. The multi-year initiative ensures that urban and rural communities in Eastern Oregon receive equitable access to streets and sidewalks, supporting mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and families navigating city streets.
By phasing construction over several years, ODOT can manage permitting challenges, utility relocations, and coordination with local stakeholders, while minimizing disruptions to traffic and community life. The plan also enables cost-effective procurement and efficient resource allocation, ensuring that each ramp meets modern safety standards and long-term durability.
As the project moves forward, ODOT will continue to review and prioritize locations, ensuring that no areas are overlooked and that all residents in the region benefit from improved accessibility and safer pedestrian infrastructure.
Originally reported by East Oregonian in Baker City Herald.
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