U.S. 395: Punkin Center Safety Improvements Open House

ODOT Press Release

HERMISTON — The public is invited to learn more about planned safety improvements at U.S. 395 and Punkin Center during an open house on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. The event will run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Hermiston City Hall, 180 NE 2nd Street, in the Council Chambers. The location is ADA accessible.

The open house will begin with a short presentation. Afterward, attendees can visit breakout stations to talk with project staff about key components of the U.S. 395: Punkin Center Safety Improvements project, including design, right of way, construction and other elements.

About the project

The U.S. 395: Punkin Center Safety Improvements project includes removing the existing traffic signal at U.S. 395 and Punkin Center Road, building a two-lane roundabout, upgrading ADA curb ramps, and adding lighting and bicycle and pedestrian facilities. These improvements will help slow vehicles, reduce crashes, improve traffic flow and create safer conditions for all road users.

The roundabout will be designed to accommodate the types of vehicles that already use this intersection, including school buses, farm equipment, trucks with trailers and oversized freight.

Crashes have been a long‑standing concern at Punkin Center, and a roundabout is the safest option for this location. According to the Federal Highway Administration, roundabouts are safer than traditional intersections and typically have fewer injuries and crashes. They can also lower maintenance costs and improve fuel efficiency.

For more information on roundabouts, visit the ODOT website.