Brief delays possible the week of March 2

Feb. 23, 2026

LA GRANDE – Travelers in La Grande, Haines and Sumpter should expect minor delays March 2 - 6 due to soil sampling work along sidewalks and highway shoulders. Crews will be collecting samples to prepare for the upcoming Eastern Oregon 2024-2027 ADA curb ramps, phase 3. 

The schedule may change due to weather conditions. Updates will be provided if needed.

What to expect

• Drilling at each location should only take an hour or two.
• Work will involve parking lane and shoulder closures, as well as limited sidewalk closures.
• Pedestrians will have access through or around work zones. Businesses will remain open and  accessible.
• The contractor will provide flaggers and traffic control to guide vehicles safely around work areas.

About the work

Activity will include drilling and soil collection. The sampling will identify whether any materials that will be removed during construction contain hazardous compounds. This ensures that all materials are handled safely by contractors and disposed of properly. Results from the testing will allow project teams to specify locations that require specially trained personnel and prevent cross-contamination with clean fill materials.

The sampling will be performed by a third-party contractor.

This work is part of a larger effort to bring curb ramps in eastern Oregon up to current ADA standards, improving safety and access for everyone.

Project schedule

Phase 3 is scheduled to bid in June with construction starting this fall.

For more information

• Project contact: Vicki Moles, 541-620-4527, Community Affairs Specialist.
• Sign up to receive these email updates to learn about the work we're doing in northeast Oregon (Morrow, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa and Baker counties.)
• Visit the project webpage: Eastern Oregon 2024-2027 ADA curb ramps, phase 3.

Public comment now open: 2027-2030 Proposed STIP Projects

ODOT has released the draft 2027–2030 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for formal public review and comment.

What is the STIP?

The STIP is ODOT’s capital investment plan for Oregon’s transportation system. It outlines how state and federal funds will be spent on projects such as public transportation improvements, new bike paths and sidewalks, road repaving and bridge maintenance and safety upgrades.

How to participate Explore the projects: Visit the online open house, available through March 20. Share your feedback: Submit comments by March 31 via the online open house or by emailing us at ODOT.STIP@odot.oregon.gov. Learn more: Visit the STIP website for details. Stay informed: Sign up for email updates. Why it matters Your input helps shape Oregon’s transportation future. This is your opportunity to weigh in on projects that impact your community.