Changes on the way to improve safety on Wilson Avenue corridor in SE Bend

City to hold open house on much-needed upgrades that will help traffic flow

(Update: Adding video, comments from project manager Deedee Fraley)

BEND, Ore., (KTVZ) -- The city of Bend is working on making Wilson Avenue safer for motorists, bicyclists and walkers with the Wilson Avenue Corridor Project.

Project Manager Deedee Fraley said Monday they’re eager to get started with the first big general obligation bond project on the list and make the improvements voters supported last November.

“The main component is that there’s no bike and (pedestrian) improvement along the majority of Wilson from Second to 15th Street,” Fraley said. “At least they’re not safe, for the entire corridor. So we’re looking to make those improvements for the key route.”

The project they're embarking on is a multi-phase modernization project that will improve safety and east-west connectivity for all users along Wilson Avenue from Second to 15th streets.

Large trucks have hit signal poles when turning at Third Street and Wilson Avenue. The new design will make it easier for trucks to get around the corner. 

The project will offer many additional enhancements, such as added sidewalks, on-street bike lanes, better signal detection, and the replacement of old or damaged traffic lights.

Two roundabouts are being planned, one of which will be at the busy intersection of Ninth Street and Wilson Avenue. Additionally, the existing water line system will be upgraded to meet current safety standards. 

The project timeline is divided into three phases. As of now, the 'Design Step 1' phase for the west section (2nd Street to Douglas Street) has been completed. The 'Design Step 2' phase for the east section (Douglas Street to 15th Street) is expected be completed by next June. Fraley determines the construction to start by February of next year.

“The cost right now is around $19 million for the entirety of the project, construction is probably closer to around $14 million," Fraley said.

All of the changes and upgrades are intended to help improve traffic flow and safety. 

A public open house on the project and design work is set for Thursday from 4-6 p.m. at the Vince Genna Stadium clubhouse.