03/27/2026
Chamber makes investment in safety of locals and visitors
The Harney County Chamber of Commerce has made a new investment in community safety with the purchase of four construction grade traffic signs designed to protect both residents and visitors during large community events. The signs were purchased using grant funding specific to the Skull Gravel Grinder, a signature event that has brought as many as 200 cyclists to Burns for a single race weekend.
At the recommendation of Ty Richardson, Public Works Director for the City of Burns, the Chamber ordered the signs from Portland based Traffic Safety Supply Company. The purchase includes two highly visible neon pink “Event in Progress” signs and two yellow “Pedestrian Crossing” signs intended to slow traffic and alert drivers during periods of increased foot traffic.
The signage will be used to improve pedestrian safety, particularly in areas where people regularly cross busy roadways during events. One key location is the crossing between Triangle Park and the parking area on the opposite side of Foley Drive. This crossing sees especially heavy use during the Skull Gravel Grinder, when cyclists, volunteers, and spectators move between staging areas, parking, and downtown amenities.
While the initial grant funding was tied to the Skull Gravel Grinder, the Chamber plans to use the signs year round for other community events that draw families and visitors into downtown Burns. These include Harney Nights, Community Bike Night, and the Harney County Christmas Jamboree. By using the same safety equipment across multiple events, the Chamber is able to extend the value of the grant while supporting safer streets for a wide range of activities.
“Safety is a shared responsibility, and it’s something we take seriously as event organizers and community advocates,” said Jess Hedges, Executive Director of the Harney County Chamber of Commerce. “As our events grow, so does the need to protect pedestrians and slow traffic in key areas. These signs help create a safer environment for locals and for the visitors who choose to spend time in Harney County.”
The Chamber also extended thanks to Jeff Mack, a Harney County Chamber of Commerce board member, for his hands on help unboxing the signs and assisting with setting them up for use at upcoming events.
As community events continue to expand in size and visibility, investments like this help ensure that Harney County remains a welcoming place where residents and visitors alike can gather, move about downtown safely, and enjoy community events with confidence.
