Drivers in downtown Madras should expect ongoing — but manageable — traffic changes through the winter as the Oregon Department of Transportation's Earl Street and Colfax Lane infrastructure project advances to its next major phase.

The project, which launched in July 2025 with curb ramp improvements and new sidewalks near Safeway, has completed that initial work. Crews are now shifting focus to a more substantial undertaking: replacing aging storm sewer pipes beneath several streets in the core of the city.

Which Streets Are Affected

The multi-month storm drain installation will move through three street segments, block by block:

  • N.W. B Street — from S.W. First Street to U.S. Highway 97, near the Madras Public Works Department (beginning now, running approximately one month through mid-October)
  • S.W. Second Street — moving south from N.W. B to S.W. G Street (a three-month phase beginning around mid-October)
  • S.W. G Street — the final leg toward U.S. Highway 97 (approximately one month, potentially completing around late February 2027)

All three streets will remain open to through traffic. Lanes will shift around active work zones as crews advance block by block.

Parking Impacts

While traffic delays are not expected to be significant, parking will be unavailable on the specific block being worked on at any given time. Residents and business owners along these corridors should plan accordingly and watch for posted no-parking notices as work zones move.

"As crews move through the different phases, traffic impacts will shift with them," said Kacey Davey, an ODOT spokesperson. "We'll continue providing updates so people know where crews are working and what to expect when traveling through the area."

Work Hours

Construction will take place during daytime hours only. ODOT has not indicated any nighttime or weekend work for this phase of the project.

The storm drain upgrades are part of a broader effort to modernize aging underground infrastructure in Madras. The improvements are designed to better manage stormwater runoff, reduce flooding risk, and support the long-term health of city streets.

Residents with questions or concerns about the project can contact the Oregon Department of Transportation's Central Oregon district office. Updates will be provided as work zones shift through each block.