Bend’s NE Olney Avenue closure extended through January 2026

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- One of Bend’s key east-west routes will stay closed longer than expected as construction continues near the railroad crossing on Northeast Olney Avenue.

The stretch of Olney Avenue between NW Wall Street and NE First Street is now anticipated to remain closed through January 2026, city officials announced this week.

The extended closure comes as BNSF Railway crews complete track and signal improvements at the at-grade crossing, work that’s expected to last through December. Once the railway finishes its upgrades, the city’s project contractor will rebuild the roadway — including new subgrade, concrete, and asphalt — aiming to reopen Olney in late January, weather permitting.

Because final paving, striping, and landscaping require warmer temperatures, those finishing touches are planned for spring 2026. At that point, drivers should expect another full closure lasting up to two weeks to complete the final work.

In the meantime, the city is coordinating with BNSF to allow a temporary reopening of Olney Avenue from late January through April using temporary pavement.

There’s some good news for drivers, though: Olney between NE First Street and NE Second Street is expected to reopen the week of December 15.