Bentz Bill Would Help Prineville’s Juniper Canyon Get Emergency Access Road

Federal legislation introduced by U.S. Rep.

Cliff Bentz could help Crook County build a second access road to Juniper Canyon, addressing long-standing wildfire evacuation concerns. - The bill grants an 80-foot right of way across BLM land for a road connecting to State Route 380.

- It also transfers four 40-acre parcels to the county for emergency response uses. - Funding is uncertain, with estimated costs between $24 million and $52 million.

- The Highland Fire last summer highlighted the need for better evacuation routes. The legislation is a first step, but the county must still secure funding for construction.