Construction will begin next week in Pendleton as the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) resumes work on upgrading curb ramps to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. This marks Phase 2 of a five-phase project aimed at improving accessibility in eastern Oregon.
Phase 2 will focus on Dorion and Emigrant Avenues. Work is scheduled to start on Dorion Avenue at SW 12th Street, progressing northeast toward downtown. Crews will first address the south side before moving to the north side, then continue onto Emigrant Avenue. The construction schedule may change depending on circumstances.
During this phase, crews will work during daytime hours from Monday through Thursday. Drivers should expect lane shifts and occasional lane or shoulder closures, with signs and flaggers directing traffic. Some delays and construction noise are anticipated, but businesses along the route will remain open. Pedestrian access through or around work zones will be maintained.
ODOT encourages drivers to slow down and watch for workers in construction areas.
According to ODOT, three phases remain after this one for Pendleton’s curb ramp upgrades. The agency notes that not all streets are completed at once because each location has different requirements; some intersections need additional preparation such as relocating fire hydrants or utility boxes, or obtaining extra permits.
Future phases include Phase 4, scheduled for summer 2027 and 2028, and Phase 5, planned for fall 2027 into 2028.
ODOT states that ADA-compliant curb ramps improve mobility between sidewalks and roads for people who have difficulty navigating high curbs. These upgrades also benefit those using wheelchairs, strollers, walkers, hand carts, and bicycles by making it easier for everyone to get around.
More information about this statewide effort can be found on the ODOT ADA webpage. For updates about other projects in eastern Oregon visit the Region 5 Eastern Oregon project webpage. Current road conditions are available at tripcheck.com or by calling 5-1-1.
Vicki Moles serves as Community Affairs Specialist for ODOT regarding this project and can be reached at vicki.l.moles@odot.oregon.gov or by phone at 541-620-4527.
“ADA curb ramps make it easier for people to move between the sidewalk and road,” ODOT stated in its announcement. “This can be helpful for those who have trouble stepping up and down high curbs.”
“It’s also helpful for people using wheelchairs, strollers, walkers, hand carts and bicycles,” according to ODOT’s statement. “These ramps make it easier for everyone to get around.”
