Keizer Public Works discusses prioritizing traffic safety near schools

The City Council Work Session in Keizer, Oregon, on July 15, 2025, focused on the pressing need for prioritizing public works projects, particularly in traffic safety and pedestrian infrastructure. Council members discussed the lack of formal prioritization for local streets, emphasizing the importance of addressing areas with high pedestrian traffic, especially near schools.

One key point raised was the condition of Brooks Avenue, where council members noted the absence of sidewalks and the presence of children walking to school. This area was highlighted as a potential priority for improvements, reflecting a broader concern for the safety of students and families in the community.

The discussion also touched on funding challenges, with local streets being less competitive for federal grants compared to major collector roads. Council members acknowledged that while there is some eligibility for funding, local streets often fall to the bottom of the priority list. This raises concerns about how to effectively allocate limited resources for necessary infrastructure improvements.

To address these issues, it was suggested that the Traffic Safety Bikeways Pedestrian Committee be tasked with evaluating and prioritizing projects. Council members expressed the need for a clear framework to guide the committee in its decision-making process, ensuring that prioritization is based on objective criteria rather than implicit biases.

The conversation underscored the importance of establishing a clear understanding of available funding, as this will significantly influence which projects can be undertaken. Council members recognized that a well-defined prioritization process, potentially informed by national best practices, could help ensure that the most critical needs are met effectively.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the urgent need for a strategic approach to public works in Keizer, particularly in enhancing safety for pedestrians and addressing infrastructure gaps in the community. The next steps will involve further discussions on funding and the establishment of a prioritization framework to guide future projects.