Pair of blasts – one for new Costco, other for the new Hwy. 97 route – to briefly impact traffic on Bend’s north end

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Two separate blasts for different construction projects will impact traffic on the north end of Bend later this week, the Oregon Department of Transportation said Tuesday. 

On Thursday evening, crews for Powell Development plan to complete blasting along U.S. Highway 20 in preparation for the new Costco location. U.S. 20 will be fully closed between Robal Lane and Cooley Road for up to 15 minutes between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. 

On Saturday morning, Bend North Corridor crews plan to complete the fourth blast of hard basalt along U.S. Highway 97 near Empire Avenue. U.S. 97 will be closed for up to 15 minutes between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. These blasts are making way for the new section of the parkway, part of the Bend North Corridor project.

Both brief highway closures allow for a clear zone around the blasting sites. If you travel these routes during blasting times, plan ahead and give yourself extra time. Be prepared to stop and give crews space. If you want to avoid the delays, consider an alternate route. Last week's blast stopped traffic for only 7 minutes.  

All work is dependent on weather conditions, and schedules are subject to change. Visit the Bend North Corridor website for more detailed information.