The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has released a list of finalists that are in the running to receive $16 million in federal Transportation Enhancement funding. TE grants are made through the FHWA and are awarded every two years to projects that “strengthen the cultural, aesthetic, or environmental value of our transportation system.”
Portland has two projects still in the running for these funds; the Clinton to the River project and a project that would improve biking and walking conditions to schools in East Portland. Below are summaries of both projects:
Clinton to the River
PBOT is requesting $1,902,761 to create a seamless 2.8 mile bicycle and pedestrian route adjacent to the planned Portland-Milwaukie Light Rail. This project will enhance safety and the quality of experience for bikers and pedestrians and reduce conflicts with all modes. The project addresses several barriers at the confluence of three bike and pedestrian routes that make connections in the area challenging and dangerous. The path will support the 2,500 daily users of the Clinton bikeway and accommodate the future demand once the Willamette River Bridge is constructed.
Safe Routes to Schools
PBOT is requesting $1,487,000 to improve pedestrian and bicycle access and safety to Gilbert Park Elementary, Gilbert Heights Elementary and Alice Ott Middle School, which together serve 2,000 students. The schools are situated in an incomplete grid of streets, with significant gaps in curb, sidewalk, and bicycle infrastructure. This project will provide much needed sidewalk infill, traffic calming, storm water management and bicycle marking improvements on SE Holgate and SE Ramona from 122nd Avenue to 136th Avenue.
From here, ODOT must further refine the project list. The 31 projects named as finalists represent $37 million in requests, which is over twice the amount available. Projects are selected through a process of public feedback, input from the TE Advisory Committee and scoring based on a set list of criteria. The Oregon Transportation Commission will make the final approvals at their meeting in Salem, on May 18th.
Download the full list of 31 TE grant finalist projects here (PDF).