Update: Switch in direction for Bend’s Franklin Avenue detour has been delayed until next Wednesday
KTVZ
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A direction switch in the detour for the city of Bend’s Franklin Avenue Improvements Project is being delayed by two days, to next Wednesday, due to a delay with the contractor performing the work.
“We want to thank the community for their understanding and patience as we complete this critical project,” the city said in Thursday’s announcement.
Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 5, the one-way traffic on Franklin Avenue between Fourth Street and Eighth Street will switch directions (eastbound open, westbound closed) to complete the next phase of construction.
The temporary traffic direction switch will open the eastbound traffic lane and close the westbound traffic lane. This temporary configuration is expected to be in place through early December.
The city said the switch is needed to allow for construction work on the north side and remaining areas.
Access to local businesses and residential properties will be maintained throughout construction, the city said, and appropriate signage will be in place to guide the traveling public through the work zone.
“We appreciate the public’s patience as we move into this next phase of the Franklin Avenue Improvement project,” said Todd Johnson, senior project engineer with the City of Bend Engineering Department.
“This project will improve safety for all users,” Johnson said. “As always, we urge drivers to slow down, pay attention to signage, and allow for extra time when traveling through the work zone.”
The city says the full project is ahead of schedule and, weather permitting, is expected to be completed in early December.
For the eastbound detour map and more information about the project, visit bendoregon.gov/midtowncrossings.