Redmond officials present safety improvements for US 97 O'Neil Highway project

The City of Redmond's recent council workshop on June 2, 2025, focused on the critical Northwest Galloway to O'Neil Highway Project, previously known as the US 97 O'Neil Highway Project. The meeting aimed to address existing safety concerns and outline the project's scope, schedule, and budget, with a strong emphasis on improving traffic safety in a notoriously dangerous area.

The discussion highlighted the current conditions of US 97, which varies from two to six lanes and lacks a center median. The intersection at O'Neil and Pershall has been identified as one of the top 10% most hazardous sites in Oregon, with a history of severe accidents, including a fatal incident last year. The council acknowledged the pressing need for improvements, particularly given the area's high traffic speeds and frequent DUI incidents.

Project leaders outlined plans to install a tall median barrier and reconfigure lanes to enhance safety. The proposed changes include reducing the number of southbound lanes from two to one, allowing for the installation of the median barrier without widening the road. This barrier aims to channelize traffic and restrict certain turning movements, which have contributed to accidents.

Concerns were raised by council members regarding the potential traffic rerouting that could result from the project, particularly through residential areas and near schools. The council discussed the implications of increased traffic on local roads, which may not be equipped to handle the additional volume. There were suggestions to consider alternative solutions, such as a roundabout, to improve safety and traffic flow, although the feasibility of such options was questioned due to freight mobility concerns.

The project is currently at 50% design completion, with plans to go to bid in the spring of 2026. The urgency of the project is underscored by the need to implement safety measures before the next winter season, as the area has a history of hazardous driving conditions.

In conclusion, the workshop underscored the city's commitment to addressing safety issues on US 97 while navigating the complexities of traffic management and community impact. As the project moves forward, the council will need to balance immediate safety improvements with long-term traffic planning to accommodate the growing population and development in the region.