Gresham redevelopment commission backs design work for Yamhill Corridor and eyes federal grant support

Gresham Redevelopment Commission members on July 16 signaled support for starting design work and community engagement on upgrades to the Yamhill Corridor, a project staff said would improve sidewalks, crossings, lighting and bicycle access and is currently budgeted at just under $5,000,000.

The presentation by Brian Momberg, the commission's executive director, framed Yamhill as an important east‑west connector serving neighborhoods, parks and regional active‑transportation routes. Momberg said staff expect to start design and public engagement later this calendar year, with construction anticipated in subsequent fiscal years. "Overall budget for scope of improvements, at this time are scaled for just under $5,000,000," he said.

Commissioners heard maps tying the corridor to the city's active transportation plan and to nearby assets including Ruby Junction, Rockwood Central Park and regional bike/ped connections toward Portland. Staff said proposed work would focus on filling sidewalk gaps, enhancing pedestrian crossings and ADA access, improving lighting and visibility, adding traffic calming features and incorporating ecological streetscape elements such as bioswale tree canopy where feasible. Momberg emphasized the current scope seeks targeted safety and access upgrades rather than a full street reconstruction.

Staff also described priority crossings at about 187th and 190th, noting an unimproved alleyway that provides access to Vance Park and that enhancements at those intersections would be explored with engineering and community input. On public safety, Momberg said staff have had positive discussions with the Gresham Police Department about integrating Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design measures.

The commission was briefed on a time‑sensitive federal funding opportunity: the Federal Highway Administration's Active Transportation Investment Program. Momberg said FHWA extended its submission window and county partners indicated interest in filing a joint application. He asked whether staff should proceed with a partnership and seek a letter of support from the county board chair and the commission. Commissioners responded favorably in the meeting, with multiple members urging staff to push the grant application and to prioritize lighting and pedestrian safety.

During questions, Commissioner Hinton asked whether Yamhill had been part of recent local resurfacing programs; Momberg said he did not believe the corridor had been resurfaced under the local street program because of its status as a collector and noted recent underground utility work in the area. Commissioners and the advisory committee liaison described the corridor as busy with new development and apartment density, reinforcing the case for enhanced pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

The session also included a brief consent vote: the commission approved the Redevelopment Commission meeting minutes for June 18, 2024, by voice vote. Chair Travis Skovall and other commissioners offered public thanks and tributes to Momberg, who announced he will relocate to the Midwest after more than 15 years working in Gresham; commissioners praised his regional planning work and said staff will return with updates later in the year.

Votes at a glance: The consent agenda (approval of meeting minutes dated 06/18/2024) was moved and seconded and carried unanimously.