Public Works Director Scott told the Umatilla City Council on Aug. 19 that the Oregon Department of Transportation plans to install a marked crossing and a school zone near a frequently used pedestrian route before school opens, though the work may run behind schedule.

“ODOT finally decided to go ahead and do a crossing…hopefully before school starts,” Scott said. He added that the agency had to meet state parameters, which include establishing a reduced‑speed school zone.

Councilors asked for specific start/end points and a timeline. Scott said the city received notice only recently and that the school zone is usually placed about 300 feet before and after the crossing; he estimated an October completion for related road paving but cautioned that utility work might extend the schedule.

Scott also reported that the bridge noted in the packet is open to traffic with some cleanup and parking work remaining. He reminded drivers to exercise care around ongoing Madison power‑line construction and said contractors are addressing unforeseen subsurface issues.

Several councilors and members of the public raised crosswalk safety, especially a marked crossing on Willamette Street where pedestrians report drivers failing to yield. A councilor requested brighter lighting or other visibility improvements; Scott said upgrades may trigger Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and could raise project costs substantially. “When one chip falls, then a lot more fall, and it ends up being a $20,000 project that's now turned into a $200,000 project,” Scott said, urging careful cost estimates and stating he would seek pricing and budget options for next year.

Police and staff said the city plans to increase crosswalk enforcement and pursue available grants for community safety. Councilors and staff also discussed a federal parcel of riverfront land that residents want mowed; city staff said federal jurisdiction limits direct city action and encouraged residents to file complaints with the federal land operator to prompt maintenance.

No formal council action was taken on capital budgets during the update; staff said they would return with cost estimates, potential grant options, and a timeline for physical improvements and enforcement.