In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a resolution to accept the cross-section and street design plan for the Halsey corridor, a project aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for all modes of transportation along a 3.5-mile stretch from 202nd to 257th Avenue. Community Development Director Erica Palmer and Economic Development Coordinator Marley Boxler presented the plan, which is the result of a collaborative effort involving the cities of Fairview, Wood Village, and Troutdale, along with Multnomah County and ODOT.

The plan, which has been in development for over two years, emphasizes community engagement, having incorporated feedback from local residents, business owners, and various public organizations. Key objectives include creating a safe roadway for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users, with safety identified as the top priority by the Planning Commission.

The proposed design includes three travel lanes, improved lighting at bus stops, and dedicated bike lanes separated from vehicle traffic to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians. The plan also outlines both near-term and long-term solutions, with immediate improvements focusing on minor adjustments that can be implemented quickly, such as painting and line changes, while more extensive upgrades will be planned for the future.

Specific segments of the corridor were highlighted, including the Edgefield segment, which currently lacks adequate sidewalks and has been described as unsafe for pedestrians. Proposed enhancements include wider shoulders, improved crosswalks, and better bus shelters. The residential and commercial segments will also see similar improvements, with options for parking configurations being considered to accommodate local needs.

The meeting underscored the importance of ongoing community input and the need for further planning to refine the design as the project progresses. The resolution to accept the design plan is a crucial step toward realizing the community's vision for a safer and more accessible Halsey corridor.