The BWNA Transportation Committee is working with the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) to address key safety concerns in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, progress has been slow due to PBOT’s new “priority reporting” system for traffic safety issues.
With growing pedestrian and vehicular traffic on NE Fremont Street, the 47th Avenue block has seen several incidents, including a pedestrian fatality, hit-and-runs, and near misses. The committee has requested a traffic engineering review of NE Fremont at 47th to improve lighting and pedestrian visibility. PBOT estimates the review could take up to four months. Meanwhile, BWNA is exploring additional measures to enhance safety in the area.
The committee is also advocating for traffic safety improvements on NE Wistaria Drive after neighbors reported ongoing issues with speeding and property damage. Wistaria’s wide turns and sloping grade make it a hotspot for accidents. BWNA has requested a traffic study and installation of new signage, including digital speed monitors to alert drivers.
Progress on both issues remains slow, as PBOT has faced five years of budget cuts, with an additional $4 million reduction expected for 2024-2025. Despite these challenges, the committee is dedicated to pushing forward. You can help support these efforts by reaching out to our new District 2 City Council members Sameer Kanal, Elana Pirtle-Guiney, and Dan Ryan and voicing your concerns about pedestrian safety. Together, we can make our neighborhood safer for everyone.
Colin O’Neill is a BWNA board member and chairs the Transportation Committee. He’s lived in B-W with his wife and kids since 2008.