North Interceptor Sewer Project Update – October 1, 2019

The North Interceptor Sewer Line Project is an important project that will help the City of Bend meet anticipated sewer demands. The large diameter sewer transmission line is approximately 37,000 feet in length and is divided into three distinct phases. The first phase of the project began in August of 2019 and includes work from Pioneer Loop to the City of Bend Water Reclamation Facility.

Ongoing Activities:

• Crews are continuing drilling and blasting work as they progress west on Gentry Loop.

• Excavation for sewer trench continues. Pipe installation along Gentry Loop is expected through the month of October.

• Preliminary work will begin on the west side of canal as early as mid-October.  Truck traffic on Pioneer Loop is to be expected.

• Continued work at the Water Reclamation Facility pump station includes concrete formwork and pouring.

• Construction work across the North Unit Irrigation Canal is scheduled to begin in November. 

Scheduled work hours are Monday-Saturday from 7a.m. – 6 p.m. and occasional extended work hours as required.  No night work is currently planned. 

• Local access to all properties will be maintained, but construction may create delays.

• Expect minor traffic shifts and flaggers on Gentry Loop during work through October.

• The project team will maintain a haul road within the Temporary Construction Easement (TCE) for the project.

• Safety is our utmost priority.  During blasting activities, please stay clear of the construction area and respect all project boundaries and construction personnel. Those in close proximity to the blasting will be contacted again no later than 48 hours prior to blasting. 

  • What you can expect during blasting activities:

    • Air horns leading up to the blast

    • Sounds and/or light ground vibration during the blast

    • Dust in the air that will dissipate quickly after the blast

    • Faint smell of explosive material that will dissipate quickly after the blast 

Work Zone Safety
Please be aware of the construction work zone and allow extra time to get where you’re going.  Any time you’re in or approaching a work zone, please remember to:

• Slow Down

• Be Kind   – our workers are out there helping to keep you safe and improve the roadways

• Pay Attention – both to workers directing you and surrounding traffic; put down your phone when behind the wheel

• Stay Calm – expect delays, leave early or take an alternate route if possible; no meeting or appointment is worth risking someone’s life  

If you have any specific questions or concerns, please call the project team at (541) 382-3264. 

You can learn more about the North Interceptor Sewer Line Project at bendoregon.gov/north-interceptor

Above: 54” Sewer Pipe Installation

Above: Concrete Forms for Pump Station