U.S. Rep. Greg Walden recently announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is awarding a grant for $60.4 million to the Oregon Department of Transportation to help reroute Highway 97 on the north end of Bend.
The grant would provide essential funding to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to reroute U.S. Highway 97 north of Empire Avenue. Earlier this year, Rep. Walden met with Bend and Deschutes County leaders to discuss the highway project, which will reduce traffic and make the highway safer for residents and visitors in Central Oregon.
“Having traveled that section of Highway 97 myself many times and after hearing the concerns from local residents and community leaders, this is excellent news,” said Rep. Walden. “This project will significantly improve freight mobility and help reduce traffic congestion and dangers to drivers.”
Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Henderson said transportation needs are a huge priority for the county.