Columbia Street and Simpson Avenue Roundabout Opens

Bend’s newest roundabout opened today, August 27, at Columbia Street 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 planning, design and construction management for the project.

“I want to thank everyone engaged in this endeavor for their partnership and patience as we a 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 Bend Parks and OSU-Cascades for their partnership and to the 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, helps all modes of traffic flow efficiently and maximizes safety, including an anticipated reduction in emergency response time for the nearby fire station. Construction on the roundabout began in May 2021.

Learn more:

• bendoregon.gov/columbia-roundabouts
• Roundabout safety

Accommodation Information for People with Disabilities

To obtain this information in an alternate format such as Braille, large print, electronic formats, etc. please contact Anne Aurand at aaurand@bendoregon.gov or 541-388-5573; Relay Users Dial 7-1-1.