BEND, O0R -- The Empire Project is kicking into high gear now that the Purcell Bridge is closed. The Empire Extension from Purcell to the intersection of 27^th and Butler Market Road will be finished by early summer.  Project Manager Sinclair Burr says they’ll then install the 2-lane roundabout at 27^th and Butler Market by the end of the year. He says next year they’ll finish the Butler Market–Purcell Intersection which may have a stop light or roundabout. The Empire Project carries a total price tag of $23,000,000 dollars.