News Release

UPDATE: The Franklin Avenue Improvements Project detour direction switch will now take place on Wednesday, Nov. 5 due to a delay with the contractor performing the job. We want to thank the community for their understanding and patience as we complete this critical project.

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 on the Franklin Avenue Improvements project. 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.

This switch is necessary to allow for construction work on the north side and remaining areas. Access to local businesses and residential properties will be maintained throughout construction, 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. As always, we urge drivers to slow down, pay attention to signage, and allow for extra time when traveling through the work zone”.

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.