Bend, OR – Work on the Olney Avenue Improvements Project is continuing as construction crews move forward despite a delay caused by Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway operations.

City officials said the delay occurred in late December when BNSF Railway’s signal crew was reassigned to Washington state to assist with emergency flood response. As a result, work on railroad signal upgrades along Olney Avenue was temporarily postponed.

BNSF Railway crews are expected to return to Olney Avenue in mid-January and complete the signal improvements by early February.

The work includes upgrades to railroad gate arms and flashing lights, which must be finished before the roadway can safely reopen.

The city’s contractor is continuing paving and concrete work near the railroad crossing through the end of January while coordinating with BNSF Railway.

Officials are urging the public to stay out of the closed construction zone at all times due to open trenches, heavy equipment, and other hazards.

A portion of Olney Avenue between First and Third streets has recently reopened. The reopened section includes a new safe crossing at Olney Avenue and Second Street.

More information and project updates are available on the city’s website at bendoregon.gov/olney.