Portland snags $9.6 million for 82nd Avenue’s ‘high-crash corridor’

PORTLAND, Ore. ( PORTLAND TRIBUNE ) — One of Portland’s most dangerous streets is set to get an influx of federal money with an eye on safety.

Several members of Oregon’s congressional delegation announced Thursday, Sept. 5, that they’ve procured a $9.6 million federal investment — from the federal Transportation Department’s  Safe Streets and Roads for All program — to close critical crossing gaps, to deploy “proven tools” to address high-crash locations, and to improve safety and equity.

Pieces of the project include installing raised center medians, a pedestrian signal, full traffic signals, “no turn on red” signage at major traffic signal intersections and updating signal timing, as well as funding a safety education and marketing campaign.

“The grant will allow us to improve pedestrian crossings and add other safety elements on 82nd Avenue, as well as investigate safety needs on other important civic corridors in the city,” Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said.

U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer, the long-serving lawmaker who is set to retire at the end of the year, has focused funding on 82nd Avenue for years. “This investment will make it safer and more efficient, and unlock development opportunities while improving wealth for the surrounding community,” he said.

Read more at PortlandTribune.com

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