BEND, Ore. -- Butler Market Road reopened to two-way traffic Friday following the completion of Phase 1 of the Butler Market-Wells Acres Roundabout and Key Routes Project. 

"This project will improve safety and east-west connectivity for all users along Butler Market Road, one of Bend’s busiest northeast corridors," the city said in Friday's announcement, noting that "east-west connections were a key theme in the voter-approved 2020 Transportation General Obligation (GO) Bond.

The city originally estimated that the roundabout and Phase 1 of the project would be completed by late fall.

Here's the rest of the announcement:

"Today’s early reopening marks an important milestone and reflects the team’s hard work and commitment to delivering this project for the community. Thank you to everyone who helped shape the project through their input, and to residents, businesses, and travelers for their patience and flexibility throughout construction.

"The new roundabout will improve traffic flow and makes accessing the intersection of Wells Acres Road and Butler Market Road easier and safer for all modes of travel, especially during peak periods of traffic.

"Additional key route upgrades create a safer, more accessible bike and pedestrian corridor and improve connections between neighborhoods, schools, parks, and businesses north and south of Butler Market Road.

"Sewer system improvements were also completed concurrently to increase efficiency, reduce construction impacts, and make the best use of project resources.

Phase 2 of the project will begin construction in 2027. The key route will provide a safer and more accessible bike and pedestrian route along Butler Market Road, between Boyd Acres Road and Brinson Boulevard.

For more information, visit bendoregon.gov/butler-wells.