During the West Linn City Council Work Session on November 4, 2024, discussions centered on the ongoing efforts to enhance safe routes to schools, a critical initiative aimed at improving student safety and accessibility in the community.

In 2018, West Linn voters approved a $20 million general obligation bond to fund improvements across roads, parks, and city facilities, with $1 million specifically earmarked for safe routes projects. The council plans to allocate additional funds in March 2022, bringing the total investment in safe routes to approximately $1.75 million. However, the city faces challenges in securing further funding through state grants, as West Linn's relatively low incidence of bike and pedestrian accidents makes it ineligible for certain opportunities.

A 2019 evaluation conducted in partnership with the West Linn-Wilsonville School District identified 59 potential projects across six schools, totaling an estimated $14.4 million in necessary improvements. To date, the city has completed four projects and partially finished two others, utilizing about $1.2 million of the allocated funds. This leaves approximately $500,000 still available for future projects.

Community input has played a vital role in shaping these initiatives. A survey conducted at Trillium Elementary School revealed that parents prioritize safety, accessibility, and connectivity when considering safe routes for their children. While the city aims to ensure these routes are safe for pedestrians and cyclists, there are concerns regarding compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as not all designated routes meet these standards.

The council also discussed specific projects identified in a recent study, highlighting a significant need for sidewalk improvements in the Sunset neighborhood. Out of 17 proposed projects, 15 focus on adding sidewalks, underscoring the community's infrastructure gaps.

As the council continues to navigate funding challenges and project prioritization, the focus remains on enhancing the safety and accessibility of routes for students, ultimately fostering a safer environment for all residents. The next steps will involve further discussions on how to effectively utilize the remaining funds and address the community's pressing needs.