Residents urge reevaluation of North Oak/East College delineators, citing sight-line and safety concerns

A Mount Angel resident urged the City Council to reassess a recent roadway treatment at North Oak and East College, saying the delineator posts installed as part of a Safe Routes to School recommendation are “ugly” and may be creating new hazards.

The resident told council members that only “five to seven” children now cross at the location and that most vehicles turning onto North Oak swing wide into the opposite lane. He said the posts create a “pinch point” that sometimes forces drivers into the adjoining lane and recommended removing at least the posts on North Oak.

“Obviously, I have a vested interest in this as it affect the curb appeal of my house,” the resident said during the appearance of interested citizens, adding that the posts have produced unintended consequences and that a short video or camera study could substantiate the pattern of lane encroachment.

Mayor Walt said he had contacted ODOT engineers and received a number of suggested options. “We have options, but be thoughtful about that and make sure that we’re trying to do the right thing,” he said, noting that public works and the city manager will meet to review budget and feasibility.

Councilors split on the device’s trade-offs: some said the treatment appears to be reducing through‑traffic speeds and is partly doing its job, while others and nearby business owners reported impaired sight lines and tighter parking access. Staff agreed to continue study with ODOT recommendations and to communicate options and potential costs to the complainants.

The council did not take formal action on the delineators at the meeting; staff indicated they will report back after further review.