REDMOND, OR -- A busy northwest Redmond intersection is getting a makeover. Public Works Director Jessica MacClanahan tells KBND News NW 9th is closed, just east of the Maple Ave. bridge over the Dry Canyon. But Maple Avenue remains open, "Where east and west traffic can continue flowing through. However, there will be detours north and south, while they construct the south side of the intersection. We anticipate that to take about another month." She expects the intersection to reopen before the start of school, "So by the end of August, we hope to be wrapped up with the majority of the traffic impacts, which includes the new ADA ramps on all four corners, as well we will be repaving the intersection in its entirety."

Later this year, the four-way stop will be replaced with a traffic light. MacClanahan says there isn’t room for a roundabout, and population growth in the area makes the stop sign unsustainable, "I believe that a traffic signal will actually provide more flexibility and safety. It’s more obvious, it’s lit, it’s a larger infrastructure. In my experience, it’s harder to miss a traffic light than it is a stop sign, as a motorist. And, we also have more flexibility with a signal, where we can modify signal timing." She adds, "We’ve had very positive feedback while we’ve been doing notice and outreach during construction. So, I think folks will see improved traffic times and travel times, and then additional safety with controlled pedestrian push-buttons, for example, for crosswalks and things that really will benefit that neighborhood." 

However, that neighborhood has to wait until fall, due to supply chain issues regarding materials needed for the light poles. "We would be installing the signal itself in the November timeframe. And the reason for that is just based on long lead-times for materials and procurement schedule, right now."

The $860,500 project is part of the city’s long-range planning. Within the next five years, MacClanahan expects another light just down the street, at NW 19th and Maple.