Deschutes County is revamping its road infrastructure, and the latest plans are stirring excitement and debate! The county has revealed new roundabout designs for South Century Drive, a crucial route connecting Sunriver and Three Rivers. But will these changes ease traffic woes or create more confusion?
The County Road Department's dedication to community engagement shines again with a second online open house. From December 5th, 2025, to January 5th, 2026, residents can review and provide feedback on the updated roundabout plans for the intersections at Venture Lane and Spring River Road. This comes after a successful first open house in May, where almost 290 locals helped refine the designs.
The goal? To transform South Century Drive into a safer, more efficient corridor. The project includes not just roundabouts but also enhanced pedestrian crossings, new traffic signs, and improved bicycle safety measures. And the community's input is pivotal in getting it right.
Here's the twist: the Transportation System Plan (TSP) has labeled the Spring River Road and Huntington Road intersections as high-priority, but Venture Lane is only a medium priority. So, why start there? The answer lies in the community's preferences and the unique challenges of each intersection. For Venture Lane, the 'barbell' design with double roundabouts and a single roundabout with a turn lane are the top contenders. But which one will win out?
Construction is already underway at Huntington Road, with an expected finish by summer 2026. For Venture Lane, work is set to begin in January 2027, maintaining two-way traffic during the process.
But here's where it gets controversial: How will these roundabouts impact local traffic flow and safety? Will they be a smooth addition or a source of new congestion? The Deschutes County Road Department is confident in its plans, but the proof will be in the driving. What do you think? Are these roundabouts a welcome change, or would you suggest an alternative approach? The community's input is not just welcome but essential to ensuring these projects hit the mark.
