Columbia Roundabout Improvements Project Update – September 1, 2021

SAFETY FIRST

Final landscaping between the roadway and sidewalks will be ongoing. Please be aware of these activities.

As with all major road changes, approach the roundabout with additional awareness as drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians get familiar with the new roundabout.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE

Bend’s newest roundabout was opened on August 27 at Columbia St and Simpson Avenue, thanks to a multi-agency partnership.

The addition of the roundabout was made possible with funding from the Bend Park and Recreation District (BPRD) and Oregon State University-Cascades. The City of Bend Engineering and Infrastructure Planning Department oversaw the planning, design, and construction management for the project.

“I want to thank everyone engaged in this endeavor for their partnership and patience as we built this roundabout and the one at the Columbia/Colorado intersection,” said Engineering and Infrastructure Planning Department Director Ryan Oster. “These improvements will create a safer environment for all modes of travel and help accommodate the increasing demand on our system. A special thanks to BPRD and Oregon State University-Cascades for their partnership and the great team of K&E Excavating/DOWL Engineering for getting the work done safely and efficiently.”

Formerly a four-way stop, the new roundabout is responsive to increased traffic activity and efficiently helps all modes of traffic flow. Furthermore, it maximizes safety, including reducing emergency response time for the nearby fire station. Construction on the roundabout began in May 2021. 

Learn more:

An aerial photo looking west over traffic using the recently opened Columbia St & Simpson Ave roundabout.An aerial photo overlooking from above at traffic using the recently opened Columbia St & Simpson Ave roundabout.

Above: Aerial photos overlooking traffic using the Columbia St & Simpson Ave roundabout, which opened on August 27. 

Simpson Avenue/Columbia Street Scheduled Construction

Week of September 1 – September 3

  • Final landscaping along the shoulders.

General Project Notes 

  • There are multiple construction projects in the area and throughout the city and region. Please travel safely.

Questions or Comments?

24-Hour Construction Phone Line: (458) 256-6009

Project Website: www.bendoregon.gov/columbia-roundabouts

Project Contacts

Deedee Fraley, City of Bend Senior Project Engineer – dfraley@bendoregon.gov or (541) 385-6199

Peter Guth, Project Public Involvement Team – pguth@dowl.com or (541) 385-4772

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