ODOT’s major Terrebonne project on track to finish this fall

TERREBONNE, Ore. (KTVZ)-- The Oregon Department of Transportation says the large “Lower Bridge Way” project in Terrebonne is moving forward on schedule, despite getting a late start.

ODOT officials say the project is expected to be completed by October. When finished, it will create a new interchange where U.S. Highway 97 will pass over Lower Bridge Way.

The upgrades will also include improvements for pedestrian safety, giving people a safer way to cross through the busy area.

Kacey Davey, Public Information Officer for ODOT, said the project will make travel around one of Central Oregon’s most popular destinations much safer and more efficient.

“A lot of people travel to Smith Rock and they go through Terrebonne, so. And it's hard to make that left turn when you're leaving Smith Rock to get back onto US 97. So this project is going to be great because people can just go right up to the interchange and use that to head south safely without ever having to cross traffic,” Davey said.

People could be driving on part of the newly created overpass as early as April, according to ODOT.

However, officials warn that there will be several closures and detours in the area as construction continues.

For the latest updates and traffic impacts, ODOT encourages drivers to check the project’s official website for details and live updates.