BEND, Ore. — Construction along Franklin Avenue is continuing as part of Bend’s Midtown Crossings Project, with drivers facing ongoing closures and traffic changes while crews work on transportation, stormwater and pedestrian improvements.

The Franklin Avenue undercrossing between Harriman Street and First Street remains closed to vehicles after the closure began Sept. 14. The closure is expected to remain in place until the end of May, although the city plans to temporarily reopen the undercrossing from Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Day.

Crews are continuing work along Franklin Avenue between First and Fourth streets, including stormwater improvements and construction of curbs, bicycle lanes and sidewalks.

Roadway striping work is also scheduled along Franklin Avenue between NE Third Street and NE Eighth Street on Sept. 21 and 22.

Drivers affected by the undercrossing closure can use detour routes that include Third Street, Greenwood Avenue and Wall and Bond streets. Olney and Colorado avenues also remain accessible.

The larger Franklin Avenue project includes replacement of aging water lines and installation of new stormwater dry wells intended to reduce flooding. The city said the design also aims to reduce traffic conflict points and improve safety along the corridor.

Businesses will remain accessible during construction, and emergency response access will be maintained. One side of the undercrossing sidewalk and path is also expected to remain available for pedestrians and bicyclists.

After the temporary holiday reopening, work is scheduled to resume in January with another full closure of Franklin Avenue between Harriman and First streets.

The overall project is expected to be completed in June 2027, although construction dates remain subject to change.