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Project-Details



U.S. 395: Punkin Center Safety Improvements

Design Phase

Region 5: Eastern Oregon (Hermiston, Umatilla)


​​​​We will design and construct a roundabout at the intersection of U.S. 395 and Punkin Center to reduce the number of intersection-related crashes and their severity.​
We will also add lighting and bicycle and pedestrian facilities.​

Impacts

Meetings and Events

We will hold an open house to share information about planned safety improvements.
We will start with a brief presentation, followed by breakout stations where you can talk with project staff about design, right of way, construction and more.

Schedule

Project design 2025-2027.
Project bids in 2027.
Construction scheduled for 2028.

Details

About

Link to project map.Project elements include:
  • Remove existing traffic signal at the intersection of U.S. 395 and Punkin Center Road.
  • Construct new roundabout for improved traffic safety.
  • Upgrade ADA curb ramps.

Location

U.S. 395 |

From milepost 3.7, at the north entrance of the Toyota dealership, to milepost 3.9, at the north entrance to the Rocket Mart. (Locations are approximate.)​

Cost and Funding

​The estimated project cost through construction is $7.1 million.

Benefits

A roundabout at this location will:
  • Improve safety by slowing traffic through the intersection.
  • Reduce number of crashes.
  • Improve traffic flow by reducing wait times.
  • Improve safety for all modes of transportation.
We will design the roundabout to accommodate the types of vehicles currently using this intersection, including school buses, farm equipment, trucks with trailers and oversized freight equipment.

What Problem Will This Improve?

Crashes on U.S. 395 at or near the intersection of Punkin Center have been of concern for a number of years. Fatalities occurred at this location in 2014 and 2019. Due to the volume of traffic in this area, installing a roundabout is the safest option.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, roundabouts are safer than traditional intersections. Locations with roundabouts see fewer fatalities, injuries and crashes. Other benefits include lower maintenance costs and increased fuel efficiency.

Contacts & Media

Project Contact

Community Affairs Specialist
Vicki L Moles
Email
vicki.l.moles@odot.oregon.gov
Phone
541-620-4527

Last Updated

7/27/2026 10:02 AM

Project Number

22069