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Staff explains temporary traffic-signal options at Park Hill Interchange; ODOT review required
Summary
Commission heard that temporary traffic signals for the Park Hill Interchange would use wood poles and overhead wiring, require traffic warrants and ODOT approval, and could be funded by developers.
At the June 17 hearing Sutherlin planning staff described how a temporary traffic signal would be installed at the Park Hill Interchange and emphasized that the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) retains jurisdiction over installations on state-controlled roadways.
A staff speaker told commissioners a temporary signal is generally “built similar to how it’s built to fit the interchange” and typically uses wood poles, “3 cell poles” rather than steel pole-and-base construction, and overhead wiring rather than permanent foundations. The staff speaker added that the signal still needs electronic hookup and that ODOT must review traffic-engineering analyses and “seek lift approval from the state traffic engineer” before installation.
Commissioners asked how a temporary signal would be warranted. Staff explained that a traffic engineer’s analysis tied to phases of development would identify whether warrants are met; the engineer would work with ODOT, which would make the final determination for state-jurisdiction routes. Staff also said that if development funding is available, developers can fund installations, but ODOT approval and the agency’s jurisdiction remain in force.
The commission also discussed a long-running Waite Street project. Staff said the city has sought grants for several years and that work on the roadway has continued in phases; a permanent signal or other work at the interchange remains contingent on warrant studies and ODOT review.
No formal action or vote on traffic infrastructure was taken at the meeting; the discussion clarified the procedural roles of traffic engineers, developers and ODOT in signal installation on state routes.
