Improvements for people who walk, roll and drive just ahead in Warm Springs
The project includes new sidewalks, ADA ramps, bike lanes and more.
After years in the planning and development process, crews from High Desert Aggregate and Paving, under contract to the Oregon Department of Transportation, are putting the finishing touches on a safety project on U.S. 26 on the reservation of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs in central Oregon.
The nearly $9 million project got underway in early spring this year to bring roadway and safety improvements to the major highway where it traverses the reservation from the Kahneeta Junction to the museum and beyond.
The work includes new ADA ramps, a lighted multi-use path, new pedestrian crossings, new guardrails, new pavement and new signage. Another major element of the project was a hillside cut to reduce rockfall hazards, something that occurred far too often.
Over the past few years, members of the Warm Springs community have expressed concern about safety along the corridor. Now, the Tribes is expressing its appreciation for the collaboration.
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Government Relations Director Louie Pitt expressed appreciation for the highway safety project.
“It helps our community be safe and helps prevent loss of life,” said Tribes’ Government Relations Director Louie Pitt. “Thanks for all of that, state of Oregon!”
Hear more from the Tribes and learn about the project by watching a short video.
