Railroad track project will smooth out Naito: “Gap” fix due next spring
Posted by Jonathan Maus (Publisher/Editor) on August 4th, 2011 at 2:46 pm
(Photo: Google Streetview)
Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) started on a project this morning to repair their tracks on NW Naito Parkway just north of the Steel Bridge. The existing tracks have large gaps between them that make for a bumpy and jarring experience for people riding bicycles.
Yesterday’s announcement didn’t share many details about what the project would entail, so I asked PBOT traffic safety manager Mark Lear for more details. I also inquired as to whether or not we could expect a fix to the “Naito Gap” with this project (the gap is a section of road where the bike lane and shoulder both drop, creating a squeeze situation north and south of the Steel Bridge overpass – see photo below).
(Photo: Google Streetview)
Lear confirmed for me today that UPRR is removing the existing rail tracks, adding new track panels and replacing the old tracks. “Adding the track panels,” Lear shared via email, “ensures a smooth and even transition on the roadway across the tracks.”
As for the Naito Gap, Lear said PBOT is on track to begin a project to significantly improve traffic safety in this area. Similar to the project I shared back in July of 2009, Lear says they’ll use ODOT funding to connect the Naito bike lane through the gap. To make room for the bikeway, they’ll re-allocating the space currently used by existing lanes. In addition, they also plan to add a crossing for bicycle and walking traffic at NW Flanders.
According to Lear, “It is the goal to complete the design this fall with a project in the spring of next year.”
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