Colorado Avenue Bridge closure extended 3 days

The Colorado Avenue Bridge closure is being extended by three days, to Friday, Nov. 20, the city of Bend said Tuesday.

The bridge was originally scheduled to open Nov. 17 with the completion of the Bend Parks and Recreation District pedestrian undercrossing at the east end of the bridge.

The city said it needs additional time to complete a new sewer line across the bridge.

However, it said both lanes on the bridge will be open the week of Thanksgiving. Additional one-lane closures may be needed the week of Nov. 30 to finish the work but will not require a detour, they said.

The construction is part of the Colorado Lift Station Project. When completed, the lift station will replace the undersized and deficient lift station in McKay Park. The improved station will relieve critical sewer capacity issues on Bend’s West side.

Bend’s sewer collection system is near capacity. In some areas, existing sewer pipes routinely approach overflow levels. In parts of the city it is difficult for Bend to add any major new employer or residential development.

For more information, visit bendoregon.gov/Colorado.