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Local News
Local News
ODOT Hosts May 27 Open House on $42 Million Madras Highway Reconstruction
The Oregon Department of Transportation is inviting the public to review plans for a major reconstruction of U.S. 97 and U.S. 26 through downtown Madras, a $42 million project expected to run from summer 2026 through spring 2028.
Local News
Culver School District Names Kevin Dinning as New Superintendent
The Culver School District has appointed Kevin Dinning as its next superintendent, replacing Stefanie Garber at the end of the school year. Dinning brings 12 years of administrative experience and a background in small, tight-knit communities.
Local News
Warm Springs Completes 40+ Energy Efficiency Upgrades With $90K Investment at Key Community Buildings
A two-year partnership between Energy Trust of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs has delivered more than 40 energy projects, improving the fire station, medical clinic, and lodge while saving the tribe $13,800 annually.
Local News
Warm Springs Community Sees Real Results From 40-Plus Energy Efficiency Projects
A two-year partnership between Energy Trust of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs has completed more than 40 energy upgrades — saving an estimated $13,800 per year at two facilities alone and improving quality of life for elders and first responders.
Local News
Historic New Bus Route Connects Remote Warm Springs Communities — Free to Ride Through May
Cascades East Transit's new Route 21 launched May 5, bringing public bus service to the community of Simnasho for the very first time and providing a direct link to the Kah-Nee-Ta resort. Rides are free all month.
Local News
Warm Springs Sees Real Results From $90,000+ Energy Upgrade Partnership
Over the past two years, Energy Trust of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have completed more than 40 energy efficiency projects across the reservation, from fire stations to elder care facilities — saving an estimated $13,800 a year and improving quality of life.
Local News
ODOT Open House May 27: Major Highway 97 Renovation Coming to Madras
The Oregon Department of Transportation wants to hear from Madras residents before construction begins on a significant Highway 97 upgrade from Earl Street to Colfax Lane. An informational open house is set for May 27.
Local News
COCC Opens $22 Million Madras Campus Expansion With Nursing, Healthcare Programs
After 76 years in Madras, Central Oregon Community College has completed a major campus expansion — a $22 million facility on donated land that brings nursing, medical assistant, certified nursing assistant, and early childhood education programs directly to Jefferson County.
Local News
New Bus Route Finally Connects Simnasho, Kah-Nee-Ta to the Outside World
For the first time in decades — possibly ever — residents of Simnasho, a remote community on the Warm Springs Reservation, have reliable public transit connecting them to Madras and beyond. Route 21 launched May 5 as a 15-month pilot program.
Local News
Boat Inspection Event Today at Madras Marine — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is holding a free boat safety inspection this morning at Madras Marine. If you’re planning to hit Lake Billy Chinook or the Deschutes River this season, today is the time to get your vessel checked.
Local News
Bright Wood Corporation Hosting Open House May 20 — Tours, Careers, and More
Bright Wood Corporation invites the Madras community to an Open House on May 20, 1–4 PM. Tours, career opportunities, and hiring across multiple positions. No RSVP required.
Local News
Warm Springs Tribes and Energy Trust of Oregon Complete 40+ Energy Efficiency Projects Across the Reservation
A two-year partnership between Energy Trust of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs has delivered more than 40 energy upgrade projects across the reservation — saving money for tribal households and reducing the community's energy footprint.