ODOT opens Wickiup Junction virtual open house, seeks community input
(Update: Adding proposals' details)
LA PINE, Ore. -- ODOT, along with the City of La Pine and Deschutes County, is planning how to improve conditions for driving, walking, biking and moving freight in the Wickiup Junction area.
U.S. Highway 97 is central to life in Wickiup Junction, but it’s challenging for people to safely cross. ODOT said the agency and its partners need public comment to shape a successful improvement plan.
A virtual open house opened Friday at www.wickiuprefinementplan.com. Visitors will find displays and descriptions of alternatives to improve Highway 97 intersections, along with places to give feedback. The open house runs through Friday, July 3.
The public is also invited to attend a live virtual meeting with project staff on Thursday, June 25, from 6-7:30 p.m. Presenters will share key elements of the open house and take questions. Advance registration is required. Visit www.wickiuprefinementplan.com to register.
One option under discussion would create a multi-use path along the side of the highway, connecting the area to La Pine.
There also could be two new roads off the highway, to Burgess and Huntington roads, as well as improvements to other side streets for local traffic.
The plan also proposes new turn lanes, possibly adding a traffic signal at Rosland Road and a roundabout at Huntington and Burgess roads.
Project Background — On Video
Overview video: https://vimeo.com/429065576
A brief video reveals why the Wickiup Junction project is needed and what alternatives are being explored by ODOT and the City of La Pine.
For more information, contact Kacey Davey, Community Affairs Coordinator, at (541)388-6268 or Kacey.L.DAVEY@odot.state.or.us.
