City of North Bend release - NORTH BEND, OR — The City of North Bend is advising motorists to expect significant traffic impacts on U.S. Highway 101 near Newmark Avenue, State Street, and the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort area as storm sewer replacement work begins next week.  Knife River will begin setting up northbound traffic control on Friday, May 15. Construction is scheduled to begin Monday, May 18, and continue through Friday, May 22, from approximately 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.  The work will replace an aged storm sewer system in the interior northbound lane of U.S. Highway 101, in the area that has been coned off since October. The project includes excavation, removal of deteriorated drainage components, installation of new storm drain infrastructure, pavement restoration, and related roadway improvements.  During construction, motorists should expect modified traffic patterns, reduced speeds, and likely delays. Traffic impacts are expected to include:  One northbound lane open; One southbound lane open; Extended traffic control and lane tapers; Turn lanes at Newmark Avenue in both directions; Construction equipment and workers operating near the roadway; Potential congestion during peak travel periods.  Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible, allow extra travel time, slow down in the work zone, and follow all posted signs, cones, flagging, and traffic control directions.  “This is important infrastructure work that will improve stormwater drainage, reduce flooding risk, and help restore the existing northbound lane restriction once the project is complete,” said Ralph Dunham, Public Works Director for the City of North Bend. “We appreciate the public’s patience and ask all drivers to be especially mindful of worker safety while traveling through the construction area.”  Schedules are subject to change due to weather, field conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.  Public Safety Reminder:  Drivers should remain alert for changing roadway conditions, reduce speeds near crews and equipment, and follow all traffic control devices. Worker safety depends on every motorist doing their part.