Sleepless in Bend: Road work goes all night long

It’s been a long road toward the finish line for residents and businesses surrounding Bend’s Murphy Road Project, and although portions of the project are ahead of schedule, some neighbors said Tuesday the working hours seem to be getting longer.

“The first thing we hear are back up alarms,” nearby resident David Spry said Tuesday. “It’s annoying first thing in the morning, because I don’t have to be up at 6.”

The $27 million project has taken over the southeast side of Bend in recent months, surrounding dozens of homes and taking a toll on many residents who just want peace and quiet.

“Everyone here is really frustrated,” Heidi Storer said. “It’s super loud all day long and I think they started as early as four or five this morning.”

ODOT Spokesman Peter Murphy said he understands the frustration — it’s part of the reason some of the project has been pushed ahead of schedule — with crews sometimes working around the clock to complete.

“The actual work schedule is up to the contractor, but there are provisions to work at night,” Murphy said.

The construction of a ramp leading south onto Highway 97 has been sped up. It was supposed to be built next year, but now will be finished in mid-November.

‘The greater good of the community is served by having this work done,” Murphy said. “It was a hazard at third street and 97.”

Some residents said they’re bearing the noise and inconvenience while anticipating improved roadways.

“Definitely a necessary project,” neighbor Ronn Wilson said. “This whole end of town was kind of thrown together it seemed like. If I looked over there and saw equipment not moving I would be upset. If I looked over and saw guys standing around I’d be upset. They’re getting it done and seem to be doing a great job.”

Access from Murphy Road to Third Street on the east side of town will be finished in October. The ramp to Highway 97 north is also expected to open in November.

A roundabout and bridges crossing Highway 97 will open in 2015. The project is paid for by the Oregon Jobs and Transportation Act.

Learn more at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/REGION4/pages/us97-murphyrd/us97-murphyrd.aspx