A community forum meeting was held to discuss the North Williams Avenue Traffic Operations Safety Project on Monday, Nov. 28. The discussion surrounding the improvements has raised issues about the history of the neighborhood, its changing demographics, community power, and the nature of decision-making.
The City of Portland designated N Williams as a “major city bikeway” as part of 2010’s Portland Bicycle Plan. During the warm months there are 3,000 bicycle riders combined with 1,200 people getting on and off buses in the thick of busy traffic, known for exceeding the 30 mph speed limit. Possible improvements presented by the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) include adjustments to make travel safer for the bus and the lift, for driving and parking, and for pedestrians.
Suggestions from the Stakeholder Advisory Committee as well as the community are being considered in order to meet an objective of an open planning process allowing all voices throughout the city to be heard.
Ideas from the Stakeholder Advisory Committee include changes to N Williams that honor the history of the street and are supported by the people living, working, visiting, and worshipping in the neighborhood, as well as continuing to support local business and foster community.
During the forum, Cathy Galbraith of the Architectural Heritage Foundation presented information from the book Cornerstones of Community: Buildings of Portland’s African American History, which highlights standing buildings associated with African American individuals and organizations. One goal of the Cornerstones program is to elevate the awareness of the importance of African Americans to Portland’s development and growth.
There next Stakeholder Advisory Committee meeting to further discuss the North Williams Avenue Traffic Operations Safety Project is scheduled on Tuesday, December 6 (more info here in "upcoming events" section).
