There currently are a few feedback opportunities related to transportation and transportation projects that bike riders and users should know about:
- Oregon Transportation Plan (OTP)
The Oregon Department of Transportation is updating its long-term policy and wants your opinion.
The Oregon Transportation Plan (OTP) sets policies, goals, and strategies and then implements actions for managing the state’s transportation system. The plan guides statewide investments from major bridge improvements to local sidewalk projects for the next 20-25 years.
This is a great opportunity to provide input to one of the most important plans that defines how future Oregonians get around. In 20-25 years, we need that to be fundamentally different for the sake of our climate. It needs to include more regional transit, bike trails, and walkable communities, among many other things. It does not need wider freeways and induced climate breakdown.
Check out the virtual open house and provide your input from Dec 6-22.
2. Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR)
interstatebridge.org/get-involved
As previously posted, the team in charge of replacing the I-5 bridge over the Columbia River is looking for feedback on options. Use this as an opportunity to express how expanding freeways only induces demand, and show your support for alternative modes crossing the Columbia River.
Visit the website anytime now through Friday, Dec. 10
3. Burnside Bridge Replacement
Multnomah County is in the process of refining the design of the replacement Burnside Bridge. Fortunately, it's looking like that mostly means eliminating travel lanes for cars and keeping a large (albeit smaller) physically protected bike/ped lane on each side.
Something noticeable that is missing from this survey is any discussion about access to the Eastbank Esplanade. BikeLoud PDX and Human Access Project are looking to provide testimony to support a ramp to access the Esplanade and a new Willamette River Park, in lieu of stairs/elevator or even the option of providing no access at all.
The online open house and public survey are open through Tuesday, Dec. 14.
Please check them all out and provide your feedback as a bike user! These small opportunities are where we can really voice our thoughts and advocate for others.
