Empire Corridor Improvements - COMPLETE

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Completion of the Empire Corridor Improvements Project in Northeast Bend greatly improves safety, accessibility, transportation options and connectivity.

The recent opening of the Butler Market Road and Purcell Boulevard roundabout and improvements to Purcell Boulevard south of the canal marks the completion of a multi-year project to improve transportation options and connections to neighborhoods and businesses in northeast Bend. The full project provided an extension to Empire Avenue, delivered three new roundabouts, and improved pedestrian, accessibility and bike safety features to expand connectivity.

Find fun facts in the EMPIRE PROJECT INFOGRAPHIC

PROJECT IMPROVEMENTS

Phase 1 of this project is now complete. Phase 2 of the project was constructed in four separate segments, as detailed below and is also complete! Four segments detailing the implementation of Phase 2 of the Project.

PROJECT SCHEDULE

Phase 1 of this project is complete!

Empire/Purcell Roundabout
Empire Avenue Modernization (18^th to Purcell)
Purcell Boulevard Modernization (Rock Park Drive to Canal right-of-way)

Phase 2 of this project is complete!

Segments 1, 2, and 3: Construction of the Empire Extension, widening of the Purcell bridge, and the construction of a new roundabout at 27^th Street/Butler Market Road/Empire Avenue is complete!

Segment 4: Construction of the modernization of Purcell between the NUID canal and Butler Market Road, and also the construction of a new roundabout at Purcell Boulevard and Butler Market Road. Construction planned to begin in February 2021.

Empire Corridor Improvements Project Weekly Update - December 5, 2019

Post Date:12/06/2019 5:01 PM

Work Continues on the Empire Avenue Crossing Structure

Above: Marcum and Sons construction crews at work on the Empire Avenue crossing structure.

Construction on the NE Purcell Bridge Will Continue This Winter

Expect to see crews working on and near the NE Purcell Bridge.
Intermittent flagging will take place during the next few weeks.
Vehicular traffic will be maintained as much as possible with reduced speed during construction.
All construction is dependent on weather conditions and other factors.
Expect minimal delays.
Please stay out of the construction area for your safety and the safety of work crews.

Empire Corridor Improvements City of Bend Video: https://youtu.be/rnWbM0lJ8UU

For More Information: Linda Swearingen at 541-350-6012 or lllswear@aol.com

Please visit: www.bendoregon.gov/empire

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PROJECT BACKGROUND

The Empire Corridor Improvements projects have long been a priority transportation system improvement for the City of Bend but have not been completed yet due to previous funding limitations.

Empire Avenue itself is classified as a Major Arterial roadway in the City’s Transportation System Plan (TSP) and is planned to serve as the major east-west arterial roadway on the north end of Bend. Currently, Empire Avenue ends at Purcell Boulevard and does not extend to 27th Street.

The Empire Corridor Improvements Project include the following: