Redmond, Oregon – The City of Redmond is seeking state funding to install a traffic signal at the busy intersection of Southwest 35th Street and Highland Avenue. The request follows a rise in vehicle volume and a series of crashes that have occurred since the Hub Recreation and Aquatic Center opened nearby.
Why the signal is needed
According to data from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), ten accidents were recorded at the intersection between 2018 and 2024, including one collision that caused serious injuries. City officials say the increase in traffic, driven by residential growth and the new recreation center, has made the two‑way stop insufficient for current conditions.
City and state collaboration
Assistant City Engineer Lindsey Cromsight explained that the intersection has been identified in Redmond’s transportation system plan for a signal since at least 2020. “We’ve been working collaboratively, very closely with ODOT to work toward that goal,” Cromsight said.
ODOT public information officer Kacey Davey noted that the agency evaluates safety projects based on crash history. “ODOT uses crash data to identify locations with a history of fatal and serious injury crashes and directs safety funding to those areas,” Davey said. “An intersection has to meet a certain threshold to be able to get these safety dollars.”
Interim safety steps
While the city pursues funding for a permanent signal, Redmond plans to add additional road markings and restrict certain turning movements to reduce conflict points. These measures are intended to provide immediate safety improvements while the longer‑term solution is under review.
Funding requirements
Because part of the intersection falls under ODOT jurisdiction, the city must satisfy specific metrics before state safety dollars can be allocated. The collaboration between municipal engineers and the state transportation department aims to meet those criteria as quickly as possible.
Impact on the community
Local residents and commuters have expressed concern about the intersection’s safety, especially during peak hours when traffic to the Hub Center is heaviest. City leaders say the signal will not only reduce the likelihood of future crashes but also improve traffic flow for families and workers traveling to and from the recreation facility.
Redmond’s push for a traffic signal reflects the city’s broader commitment to infrastructure improvements that support its growing population while maintaining safe streets for all users.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
