Sewer Done, Delays Remain: Why Olney’s reopening depends on the railroad

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Construction on NE Olney Avenue in Bend has reached a major milestone, but the east-west corridor will remain closed through early next year as crews continue utility and rail-related work.

City officials announced that the new sewer line along NE Olney Avenue is now fully installed after months of construction stretching from February through October. The final connection at NW Wall Street was completed at the end of October, requiring a temporary three-day closure. No further shutdowns are expected at that intersection.

The section of NE Olney Avenue between NW Wall Street and NE First Street will stay closed through January 2026 as the city coordinates with BNSF Railway. The railroad’s updated construction schedule has pushed its portion of work into early January.

“We’re doing everything possible to support the completion of BNSF’s work at the railroad tracks as soon as possible,” the city said in its update.

A temporary reopening of Olney Avenue is planned for late January through April using short-term pavement. However, crews expect another two-week full closure in April to complete final paving and striping. Permanent paving, new landscaping, and striping will wait until warmer spring weather.

Meanwhile, Olney Avenue between NE First Street and NE Second Street will remain closed through November, with reopening expected in early December. That intersection is expected to close again for two weeks later this month to finish improvements.

Alongside sewer upgrades, crews are installing a new water line beneath the railroad and building a stormwater infiltration pond at NE Second Street as part of broader stormwater system improvements. Workers are also removing outdated utility lines to clear the way for the new infrastructure.

The NW Wall Street intersection is open, and all nearby businesses remain accessible from NE First and NE Second Streets.