BEND, OR -- Road projects continue across Central Oregon. Particularly at Bend’s North end where work on the US 97 and 20 corridor is underway, and roundabout construction continues on Highway 20 between Bend and Tumalo.
ODOT’s Kacey Davey tells KBND news it’s important to drive with caution in those areas, “Not only is the speed limit actually lowered in that area, but we really ask everyone to slow down and keep your eyes on the road and look out for our folks because they’re trying to get their work done. And sometimes construction zones can be a dangerous place for folks to work.”
She says a detour is now in place for OB Riley Road, and more are coming in the next few weeks, “Coming up after 4th of July there’s going to be a couple more detours that will be happening near Robal, that people will have to use Hunnel. So, there’s a couple more coming up but right now the biggest one is that closure of OB Riley Road.”
ODOT also reminds drivers to do their part to decrease wildfire risk, by not parking on dry grass and making sure your vehicle isn’t causing sparks.
Davey says the new digital speed signs and weather sensors on Lava Butte will also alert drivers to wildfire danger, “If we see thick smoke in that area this summer, you could see those speed signs on 97 lower the speed to help people adjust for those conditions.”
