Cyclists have been inconvenienced by the construction on NE ALDERWOOD AND NE CORNFOOT RD which has caused the intersection to be closed for months. The construction had been delayed because of the weather. December 1st was supposed to be the revised completion date so 4 of us decided to ride through there on Dec. 3. We were a little too early as they were just finishing up. We were told that it would be open the next day because they would work all night, if necessary, to get it open. We did notice that it will be much wider with nice, smooth pavement. Another problem is the NE Columbia, NE 47th intersection which is supposed to be under construction until the end of January. However, two-way traffic will remain with possibly some short closures. This project includes sidewalk and bikeway improvements. When all the construction is completed, it should be much more pleasant for cyclists.
There is some resolution to the issue of bike traffic using RIVERVIEW CEMETERY as an alternative to busy, narrow, steep, SW Taylors Ferry Rd. As you recall, in Sept. they installed a series of sharp, steep speed bumps which caused several injuries among cyclists. This was in response to a small number of cyclists who were not being polite and careful and actually riding over grave sites. Executive Director David Noble has announced “for the time being, no restriction on bicycling has been enacted.” However, the trustees will take up the issue in several months. In the meantime, they will post signs advising of the 15 mph speed limit, retain a traffic safety consultant for input regarding design of existing speed bumps, need for more, need to change signs and continue to dialog with the BTA, PBOT and other interested parties. Their biggest concern is people riding through the cemetery outside the posted hours of operation (8:00 am to dusk). When the gate is locked some ride their bikes over grass and grave sites. This behavior could cause all of us to lose the privilege of riding through the cemetery.
In mid-December a “next generation” bicycle boulevard opened on SE SPOKANE ST. Cars and bikes have separate spaces at pinch points, called “channelizing islands”. These are good for less assertive riders who don’t want to compete with motor vehicles for space. They will also slow down motor traffic. Also new safety improvements will be found at the intersection crossings at SE 13th and SE 17th streets. This will be a more pleasant way to access the Springwater Trail.
The new MORRISON BRIDGE 15 ft. wide two-way bikeway should be open by the time you read this. It will have a separated lane for bike traffic protected from motorized vehicles by an added barrier and a new ramp down to Water Ave. on the east side. Westbound traffic will be sent down the cloverleaf ramp to SW Naito Blvd.
PORTLAND BUREAU OF TRANSPORTATION (PBOT) hopes to construct $7 million of BIKE PROJECTS between July 2010 and June 2011, a substantial increase from previous years. This list includes bike boulevards on NE/SE 87th, SE Bush, SE 101st, SW Illinois/Vermont, NE Holman and NE Klickitat. Also they plan to finish missing links on NE 12th Ave. overcrossing, SW Terwilliger/6th to PSU access, N/NE Rose Quarter improvements. Also cycle track development on N. Williams and NE Cully and a buffered bike lane on NE Glisan. Also the 50’s bikeway, and improvements to the Springwater Trail. It will be great if all or most of these projects are developed.
On November 18, the BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION ALLIANCE (BTA) announced that Scott Bricker would no longer be their leader. The organization has been in a period of transition for some time. They are searching for leadership, identity and direction. They hope to hire a new Executive Director by March, 2010. Scott made huge contributions to the BTA, especially in the BTA’s legislative efforts and youth education where he expanded the Safe Routes to School campaign and brought the national conference to Portland this year. He will be missed.