Olney Improvements Project Update – October 20, 2025

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE:  

Olney Avenue-Wall Street Intersection Three-Day Closure – Oct. 27 through Oct. 29

The intersection of Olney Avenue and Wall Street is scheduled for a final three-day closure from Monday, Oct. 27 through Wednesday, Oct. 29 to complete the final phase of sewer line tie-in work for the Olney Avenue Improvements Project. The newly installed sewer line improvements on Olney Avenue increase the capacity of the City’s sewer system, reduce risk across the system, and replace two aging sewer lines from the 1970s that ran underneath the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway crossing.

This secondary intersection closure was anticipated before construction began and allowed us to open the intersection back in May prior to the sewer line improvements being complete. To connect the new sewer line, the existing line at the intersection will need to be worked on for three days.

The three-day closure is limited to the Wall Street and Olney Avenue intersection. Access to all driveways and businesses will remain open. The intersection of Olney Avenue and Wall Street is anticipated to re-open to vehicle traffic on Wednesday, Oct. 29. 

Olney-Wall intersection closure Oct. 27-29

Detours will be posted. Business access will remain open during construction and signage will direct alternate routes.

Olney Avenue from Wall Street to Second Street

Following Oct. 29, construction on Olney Avenue from Wall Street to Second Street will continue through early 2026 to complete water line improvements replacing aging lines from the 1950s and increasing the water system’s durability and flexibility for emergency response. Ongoing coordination between the City and BNSF Railway continues for completing the project work and temporarily reopening the road in late December.

We understand the importance of reopening Olney Avenue and appreciate the public’s patience. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

GENERAL PROJECT NOTES

  • Access to all businesses along the construction area is maintained. All businesses are open.
  • Please do not enter the closed construction zone before, during, or after hours. Stay far away from closed construction areas and equipment. There are open trenches, heavy equipment and other hazards throughout the closed work zone.
  • Daytime work hours are in effect from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Noise, vibration and dust during regular working hours.

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

  • Construction Phone Line: 541-322-9919
  • Project website: bendoregon.gov/olneypedbike
  • Project e-mail: olneypedbike@bendoregon.gov
  • Project Contacts:
    • Carrie Harris –Project Manager
    • Madeline Allen-Sandoz – Project Assistant
    • Linda Swearingen – Project Public Involvement Coordinator
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