Empire Avenue-Purcell Blvd. closure begins June 17

The next phase of roundabout construction at the intersection of NE Empire Avenue and NE Purcell Boulevard begins Monday, June 17. Over the next two months, until roundabout construction is completed, the entire intersection at Empire Avenue and Purcell Boulevard will be closed.

Purcell Boulevard will also continue to be closed from Spinnaker Street to north of Empire Avenue. The city reminds the community to stay out of construction zones for safety.

Local access will be maintained for residents of the Lava Ridge and Terrango subdivisions. Pine Nursery Park visitors should consider using the Yeoman Road entrance at the north end of the park. Park trails and disc golf will remain open during construction.

An accompanying map shows approved detour routes for motorists to avoid the Empire Avenue/Purcell Boulevard intersection. Remember: the detours may add to commute time.

The closure is timed to coincide with the end of the school year, so parents of Ponderosa Elementary School students will not be impacted.

For more information, go to www.bendoregon.gov/empire or call the city’s construction hotline: 541-200-6979.