The City of Bend announced Monday that Franklin Avenue will receive a temporary holiday‑season reopening. Beginning at the end of the day on November 20, the stretch from Harriman Street to First Street will be open to vehicles until the morning of January 4, 2027, when the underpass will close again for final construction work.

Details of the reopening

While the underpass will be usable during the holiday period, crews will continue work on other sections of the Franklin Avenue project corridor. In addition, Franchise Utility work is scheduled along Hill Street. Drivers are asked to exercise caution, obey posted signs, and follow detour routes where indicated.

Detour routes and alternate access

Motorists who need to avoid the underpass after January 4 can use the city‑provided detour routes, which include Third Street, Greenwood Avenue, and Wall and Bond streets. Olney Avenue and Colorado Avenue will remain fully accessible throughout the undercrossing closure, offering additional options for local traffic.

Why the temporary reopening matters

The holiday reopening gives residents and visitors a safer, more direct path through downtown Bend during a busy travel season. By keeping the underpass open, the city reduces congestion on surrounding streets and supports local businesses that rely on holiday shoppers and diners.

What to expect during construction

Even with the temporary opening, construction crews will remain active in the area. Work will focus on pavement improvements, drainage upgrades, and utility installations that are essential for the long‑term functionality of Franklin Avenue. The city has emphasized that the ongoing work will be performed with minimal disruption, but drivers should remain alert for lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and occasional temporary closures.

City’s message to the public

In its public notice, the City of Bend urged residents to stay informed through the city’s website and to follow all posted signage. The city also reminded motorists that safety is the top priority and that the temporary reopening is a community‑focused effort to keep Bend moving smoothly through the holiday season.

For the latest updates on the Franklin Avenue project, including any changes to the schedule or detour routes, residents can visit the City of Bend’s official website or contact the Public Works Department directly.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.