City of Bend
Home MenuOlney-Portland-Wall Construction
PROJECT UPDATE:
Ongoing utility work on the Olney Avenue Improvements Project and coordination with BNSF Railway may result in an extension of the NE Olney Avenue closure from NW Wall Street to NE First Street through the winter of 2026. When installing the critical utility crossings under the railroad, unforeseen soil conditions were encountered, leading to a project delay. The original target completion of the project was in the fall of 2025. The project includes replacing aging water and sewer lines from the 1950s and 1970s at the railroad crossing. We understand the importance of reopening Olney Avenue and appreciate the public’s patience. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Changes are coming above and below ground to Portland Avenue, Olney Avenue and the intersection of Wall Street and Olney Avenue. To reduce impacts, three projects are coordinating construction schedules. Business access is open during construction. Dates are estimates and subject to change.
We know that road closures are frustrating. We have worked with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to lengthen the time that traffic signals are green on Greenwood Avenue heading east and west to allow for more traffic flow.
We thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to improve our aging infrastructure and make our streets safer.
Here are some tips that may make traveling during construction easier:
- Plan your route ahead of time so you know where you are headed (see below)
- Give yourself extra time to get to your destination
- Give yourself even more time when it snows
Need help finding your route?
Here is a map that could potentially help you get around town easier. Some potential east-west routes you can take are:
- Mt. Washington Drive and Butler Market Road on the north end of town
- Newport Avenue and Greenwood Avenue through downtown
- Franklin Avenue Through Downtown
- Reed Market Road on the South end of town
Project information is available on each project’s website. (use links below)