City Council outlines $400K sidewalk rehabilitation and traffic safety projects

The Remote Finance Committee Meeting held on February 27, 2025, by the City Council of Portland, Maine, focused on several key transportation and infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing the city's multimodal capabilities and improving pedestrian safety.

The meeting began with discussions on bike and pedestrian-oriented projects. A significant highlight was the local match for the PACS Urban Partnership initiative, which has secured $400,000 from the state for the rehabilitation of sidewalks on Forest Avenue. This project, which extends from Holly Street to the Railroad Crossing, aims to improve accessibility for various community members, particularly the elderly residents at Deering Pavilion.

Further discussions included the ADA compliance program, sidewalk rehabilitation, and arterial crossings. These initiatives are designed to ensure that sidewalks meet accessibility standards and to enhance pedestrian safety through the installation of advanced traffic signal systems, including flashing lights and HAWK beacons, which stop traffic at critical crossings.

The committee also addressed ongoing projects aimed at improving bicycle facilities. Plans are in place to enhance bike lanes on Forest Avenue between Woodford's Corner and Riverside Street, as well as to restore two-way traffic on State and High Streets, which will include the addition of bike facilities.

Additionally, the meeting covered a sewer and stormwater separation project on Hersey Street, which will include the installation of new sidewalks that connect to existing pathways, thereby improving overall connectivity in the area.

A new category of traffic calming and street safety initiatives was introduced, allowing for the implementation of permanent traffic calming measures on streets not currently scheduled for construction. This initiative aims to enhance safety across the city.

During the meeting, a council member raised a question regarding the potential switch from brick to cement for sidewalk rehabilitation, citing concerns about snowplowing and ADA compliance. The response highlighted an existing sidewalk materials policy that dictates the use of specific materials in designated areas, balancing aesthetic considerations with practical needs.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and pedestrian safety through various projects and initiatives, with a focus on accessibility and community connectivity. The council plans to continue these discussions and monitor the progress of the outlined projects in future meetings.