Board approves Stafford 65th Ellingson roundabout right-of-way authorization amid concerns about rural impacts

The Clackamas County Board of County Commissioners on June 25 approved a resolution authorizing good-faith negotiations and potential right-of-way acquisition for the Stafford 65th Ellingson Roundabout project, a transportation safety investment with a total project value listed at $12,805,240.

Chair and commissioners discussed written public comment from residents and in-person remarks by Kelly Bartholomew, who urged the board not to repeat previous Stafford Road widening that removed mature trees, widened scenic rural lanes and altered farmland. Bartholomew asked that item F2 be removed from routine consent for fuller deliberation.

Commissioner Savas and others framed the project primarily as a safety fix at a long-troubled intersection that has a history of crashes and operational failures; they said regional partners including the City of Wilsonville, Lake Oswego and Washington County have supported the project. County staff noted right-of-way acquisition can take up to two years and that delays increase project costs.

After discussion the board voted to approve the right-of-way resolution and authorize staff to undertake good-faith negotiations and related processes; funding sources for the project were identified as the Community Road Fund, system development charges, the City of Wilsonville and Washington County. Commissioners said condemnation is not automatic and, if suggested, would return to the board for a decision.

Next steps: staff will proceed with right-of-way negotiations, return to the board on any condemnation considerations and continue coordination with partner jurisdictions; commissioners said they will remain attentive to scenic and preservation concerns raised by residents.