ODOT Receives $30 million to improve safety and livability on OR 126

Source: ODOT News Release

SALEM – A $30 million federal grant will help make critical safety and infrastructure improvements along a 1.9-mile segment of OR 126 between Huston Road and Lakeside Drive in rural Lane County near the communities of Veneta and Elmira.

The funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program was announced Friday.

Addressing Safety on OR 126

This area of OR 126 has seen a high number of crashes and fatalities. With increasing traffic volume, improving safety for all road users is a top priority. “ODOT is committed to making Oregon’s transportation system safer and because of this significant support from the federal government, it soon will be,” said ODOT Director Kris Strickler.

The planned upgrades include dual-lane roundabouts at Huston Road and Ellmaker Road, widening the road from two to four lanes, and creating safer spaces for walking and biking with wider shoulders and a separated shared-use path.

Enhancing Livability in Lane County

ODOT has worked closely with Veneta, which is equally excited to see these transformative updates become a reality. “Highway 126 has been a significant safety concern for Veneta for over two decades. This project will greatly enhance the safety and quality of life for our residents,” said Mayor Keith Wiess.

“Through the construction of new roundabouts, transit stops, turn lanes, and separated shared-use paths, this stretch of OR 126 will be safer for all users. I want to thank Senators Merkley and Wyden, Representative Hoyle, and the rest of Oregon’s federal delegation and our federal partners for helping ODOT make Oregon safer for everyone,” said Strickler.

Why Roundabouts?

Roundabouts are proven to reduce crashes and save lives. According to the Federal Highway Administration, intersections with roundabouts experience fewer fatalities, injuries, and crashes compared to traditional intersections. They also reduce maintenance costs and improve fuel efficiency.

Next Steps

The project is being designed. In addition to the new roundabouts and road widening, plans include:

• A left-turn lane at Lakeside Drive.
• Railroad crossing improvements at Huston Road.
• New transit stops will enhance mobility in the area.
• While construction should begin in 2026- 2027, additional steps like right-of-way acquisitions, environmental and land-use permitting, and collaboration with the Coos Bay Rail Line are underway.

To learn more about this project and its progress, visit the OR 126 Huston Roundabout project page. Sign up for Project Alerts to stay informed about updates and milestones.