Loop‑ramp sketch pitched as phasable alternative that could avoid immediate bridge work

ODOT traffic engineer Marlo Stanton presented a hand‑drawn loop‑ramp alternative that routes new loop ramps through underused land parcels and avoids direct impacts to most buildings. Marlo said the layout could be phased so loop ramps are built first and bridge work is deferred until traffic warrants or funding aligns.

“Loop ramps are pretty operationally magic,” Marlo said, arguing the loop layout can convert left‑turn demand into right‑turn movements and handle a high share of forecast growth without immediately touching the bridge. Several TAC members raised concerns about parcel impacts in the southeast quadrant, Army Corps property at the northwest corner, and potential wetlands effects; staff noted that some loops could be moved to reduce property takings but that longer loops increase cost. The TAC asked staff to refine Marlo’s sketch for north‑side loops and to test operations and property impacts in the next iteration.