Full closure of Wilson Avenue set for railroad upgrades and safety enhancements

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) The final phase of the Wilson Avenue Corridor Project is scheduled to begin construction on Monday, April 27, 2026. This phase will require a full closure of Wilson Avenue between Ninth Street and Centennial Street, with work estimated to be completed in July.

This stage of the project focuses on railroad improvements at the Wilson Avenue crossing. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway will replace track and signal equipment, while the City's contractor will replace the adjacent sidewalk and roadway pavement. This modernization project aims to improve safety and east-west connectivity along Wilson Avenue.

The full closure of Wilson Avenue will impact all users, including drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. For safety reasons, the public should not enter the work zone or attempt to cross the railroad tracks while the road and sidewalk are closed, as railroad warning signals and crossing arms will not be reliably functional during this time.

The public is encouraged to plan ahead, follow posted detours and allow extra travel time in the area. The detour route for vehicles includes Ninth Street, Reed Market Road and Third Street. Pedestrians and bicycles will be detoured via Centennial Street, Reed Market Road and 15th Street.

Access to businesses will remain open throughout the construction period. Commuters should expect heavy equipment, noise and dust during this phase. The estimated completion date in July is subject to change.

The Wilson Avenue Corridor Project is a multi-phase initiative to modernize the corridor from Second Street to 15th Street. Previous phases included installing two new roundabouts at Ninth Street and 15th Street, improvements to the Third Street intersection and traffic signal, new roadway pavement and the addition of new sidewalks, crosswalks and bicycle facilities.

The City is working closely with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway to complete this railroad work as efficiently and safely as possible.