Medford “Big X” project nears completion
 The "Big X" intersection project features fresh asphalt and striping, new lane configurations and safety improvements (Oct. 28, 2025).
MEDFORD – A project to repave and update a major Medford intersection is nearing completion – just in time for holiday traffic. The “Big X” project upgrades road surfaces, preserves bridges and improves safety for all users.
"Our contractor and crews have worked efficiently to complete this project, which will extend the service life of the pavement and bridges while also enhancing safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians," said Elijah Oberlander, interim area manager for ODOT in the Rogue Valley.
“Big X” is a term describing the intersection of Oregon 62, Oregon 99 and Oregon 238 in Medford. The project area includes: OR 62 between OR 99 and Poplar Drive, OR 99 between Ohio Street and Table Rock Road, and OR 238 between OR 99 and North Ross Lane.
This is the first major project for the intersection since it was completed in 2000. The area has seen a significant increase in traffic with rising population and commercial development. Today, more than 38,000 vehicles travel through the “Big X” daily.
Project highlights
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New pavement and lane striping. We removed the cracked and rutted road surface and replaced it with fresh asphalt. New striping patterns are easier to navigate and provide extra space between travel lanes and bicycle lanes to create a safety buffer.
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Bridge improvements. We rehabilitated major bridge decks (OR 62 over Bear Creek, Interstate 5 and Biddle Road, OR 238 over the CORP railroad tracks) and improved drainage systems before repaving.
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New lane configuration. We added an eastbound travel lane from OR 238 to OR 62. There are now three lanes crossing OR 99 instead of two, allowing more vehicles to proceed in a traffic light cycle.
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Traffic signal upgrade. We installed a new traffic signal system that uses cameras and radar sensors to detect approaching vehicles and adjust signal timing based on traffic volume. Because the new system does not include vehicle sensor “loops” embedded in the pavement, crews will be able to complete pavement repairs in the travel lanes without costly disruptions to the sensors.
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Multi-use path. We replaced the narrow sidewalk along OR 62 with a wider multi-use path to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. This change moves westbound bicycle traffic from the roadway to the multi-use path, helping to prevent collisions between motor vehicles and bicycles.
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ADA-compliant curb ramps. We installed 88 curb ramps throughout the project area to improve accessibility for everyone using the transportation system, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Prime contractor Knife River Materials broke ground on the project in August 2024. They will complete minor finishing work in the coming weeks (weather permitting), which will be done at night to minimize impacts on travelers.
The $18 million project was included in House Bill 2017 and funded with federal and state dollars. This type of funding is dedicated to specific projects or programs and is not available for use for general maintenance and operations. For more information on ODOT funding, see our webpage: Transportation Funding in Oregon.
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