Deschutes commissioners extend discussion of Hwy. 97 safety project plans
(Update: Adding video, information on additional proposals)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Deschutes County commissioners met Wednesday to consider a proposal to amend the Redmond-to-Bend safety project that will add a raised median along Highway 97. But with many issues to consider, there were no quick decisions.
Commissioners said they need more time to review the maps provided by the Oregon Department of Transportation and will revisit the topic at their July 15 meeting.
ODOT's proposed amendments include adding a reference to "J-turns," a form of directional break in a raised median, as an alternative to a frontage road, which is outlined in the county's current transportation safety plan.
The plan previously suggested adding a frontage road prior to installing a raised median barrier along Highway 97 between the two cities, in an effort to reduce the number of serious crashes on the highway but still provide access to the many private properties along the route.
ODOT is also installing a mile-long barrier south of Deschutes Market Road and adding a J-turn.
Commissioners are also considering removing language from the transportation plan that suggests Vandevert Road will be disconnected from Highway 97.
ODOT’s current proposed design leaves Vandevert connected and has J-turns to the north of the intersection.
It also allows a two-stage left turn onto Highway 97. This means when a vehicle pulls across the southbound lanes, it will enter the median, and then turn left onto the highway when it is safe to do so.
ODOT's other proposed plans include the installation of recessed pavement markers throughout the Bend-Redmond corridor; installation of medians on the minor street approaches (Quarry & 61st); increasing clear zone by removing several rock outcroppings; installation of a deceleration lane and an acceleration lane on US97 southbound at 61st, and the installation of a deceleration lane on US97 southbound at Quarry.
Issues the board discussed about the transportation safety plan last week included out-of-direction travel for rural residents, whether J-turns can accommodate larger vehicles like semi-trucks, RVs, or horse trailers, and how wildlife crossings could be impacted.
