## Highway 97 in Redmond, Oregon Reopened After Gas Line Damage
A gas line was struck by workers on November 25, 2024, causing the closure of Highway 97 at the intersection with 12th Street near milepost 111 in Redmond, Oregon. The highway has since reopened following repairs completed early Wednesday morning. The incident stemmed from a curb ramp project aimed at improving accessibility for people with disabilities.### Incident Details & Road Closure
According to a gas company representative,a two-inch steel gas pipe was hit during construction work. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) immediately closed the highway as a safety precaution. Motorists were alerted to the closure and potential “extended delays” via TripCheck, ODOT’s online travel information service, and advised to seek alternate routes. A detour was established by 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday.
### Repairs and Restoration of Service
mark Snider, a spokesperson for CNG parent firm MDU Resources Group, confirmed the gas leak was stopped at approximately 10:45 p.m.on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Repairs were fully completed by 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, allowing ODOT to reopen the highway.
### Curb Ramp Project & ADA Compliance
The construction work that led to the gas line strike is part of a larger project to upgrade curb ramps in Redmond and Prineville. This project, detailed on the ODOT website, is designed to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards on state highways throughout both communities. The project aims to improve accessibility for pedestrians with disabilities.
### Key Takeaways
* A gas line was struck during construction on Highway 97 in Redmond, Oregon.
* ODOT closed the highway and established a detour.
* The gas leak was stopped and repairs were completed overnight.
* The incident occurred during a project to upgrade curb ramps for ADA compliance.
This incident highlights the importance of careful utility location and safety protocols during infrastructure projects. ODOT and CNG are likely to review procedures to prevent similar occurrences in the future as the curb ramp project continues in Redmond and Prineville.
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