In a recent government meeting, officials discussed several key projects aimed at enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety in the community. Among the highlighted initiatives is the proposed construction of a pedestrian crossing at Grants Ferry, which aims to connect local parks and the nearby high school. Observations indicate a high volume of foot traffic in the area, underscoring the need for improved safety measures.
Another project under consideration involves the installation of bridal lights along Saggart Street to enhance visibility for pedestrians using a newly established path on the north side. Additionally, improvements to Tualatin Road and Herman Road were discussed, particularly addressing safety concerns for cyclists at a critical intersection where bike lanes currently disappear.
Council members raised questions about the scope of the safety initiatives, particularly regarding the inclusion of vehicular traffic safety measures. Officials confirmed that the program is open to addressing all safety concerns, not just those related to pedestrians and cyclists.
The conversation also touched on the potential for collaboration with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which could provide additional funding for larger projects. However, concerns were expressed about the bureaucratic complexities that federal funding might introduce, potentially slowing down local initiatives.
Further discussions included the need for better outreach to ensure equitable feedback from all community areas, especially those identified as underserved. Officials acknowledged the importance of gathering input from diverse populations to inform project prioritization.
Lastly, the meeting addressed community requests for additional speed bumps in certain areas. Officials indicated that while speed bumps are not ruled out, they will be evaluated based on traffic data and safety assessments.
Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to enhancing safety for all road users while navigating the complexities of funding and community engagement.