“This is a big deal… I think it’s going to be a great addition to the flow on the Springwater.”
— Matt Menely, Milwaukie resident
A tricky intersection on the popular Springwater Corridor in Milwaukie will soon get a major upgrade for bike traffic. Clackamas County recently shared plans for a bike signal and diagonal crossing treatment at the intersection of the Springwater, SE Johnson Creek Blvd, and SE Bell Ave.
Currently, the Springwater runs diagonally through this intersection, but without a direct connection, people riding bicycles have to make two crossings in crosswalks. The situation is far from ideal, both from a connectivity and safety perspective. Here’s how it looks in Google Streetview…
Heather Andrews has lived close to this intersection for years and has “personally seen and experienced a lot of bad mojo here.” Andrews says many motor vehicle operators fail to check crosswalks before turning right [from northbound Bell onto Johnson Creek].
(Photo © J. Maus)
“Despite being an extremely cautious cyclist,” she wrote on her blog, “I’ve had close calls with motorists at this intersection on a few occasions. I’ve also witnessed many more close calls.”
Another problem this project will solve, says Andrews, is that the curbs and sidewalk are often “ofterflowing” with bike traffic.
Milwaukie resident and citizen bike advocate Matt Menely says the project is “a big deal.” “I think it’s going to be a great addition to the flow on the Springwater.”
The project will create a crossing similar to the one in Portland where the Eastbank Esplanade spills out onto the intersection of LLoyd Ave and the Steel Bridge.
Clackamas County traffic engineer Richard Nys says in addition to the signals and pavement markings, they will rebuild all the curb ramps. Construction cost is currently estimated just under $70,000. Nys adds that the County will start construction on the project this fall after the peak summer riding season. (We’ll update this story with cost information as soon as we get it.)