BWNA has been in regular contact with the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) to address the transportation and safety concerns of our neighborhood. PBOT recently agreed to answer a series of questions put forth by BWNA. We’ll run additional Q&As over the next few newsletters. Here’s the first in the series:
Q: Topic: Speed Reader Boards and Crossing Signals
We were happy to see that our request for speed reader boards on NE Fremont was recently approved. Anecdotally, it feels like things are already a little calmer. Given that solutions like this can make a significant difference in safety, what is stopping PBOT from installing speed readers, pedestrian crossing signals, and other proven safety improvements more broadly across neighborhoods like ours?
A: PBOT Spokesperson Dylan Rivera’s Response:
I’m glad to hear the temporary speed reader boards on Fremont are making a difference. We have a program that ranks requests and temporarily deploys these devices for approximately six months. These can be requested by contacting 311. We have a separate batch of temporary speed reader boards that can be requested for school zones.
PBOT typically installs permanent speed reader boards on our High Crash Network and as part of capital projects. Similarly, pedestrian crossing signals and other improvements beyond minor signing and pavement marking changes are generally implemented through capital projects, which require planning, design, and funding.
There is a long-term project planned on NE Fremont from 42nd to 52nd, but that project is unfunded. Our Transportation System Plan (TSP) update is going on right now. This is a perfect opportunity to request projects. More information on the TSP update and information about participating can be found on PBOT’s website at portland.gov/transportation/planning/2045tsp.