At one time, the intersection of SE 122nd and SE Powell in Portland was the top intersection identified in Oregon for the highest number and severity of crashes. The lack of illumination and the spacing of signalized crossings were too far apart from bus stops and desired destinations. Oregon Department of Transportation embarked on a $25 million project to improve people’s lives by providing basic infrastructure to promote safety across all modes, including the most vulnerable users navigating the corridor to reach their intended destination: transit users, pedestrians and bicyclists. Safety improvements included sidewalks where none previously existed, a mix of separated and sidewalk level bike lanes, center turn lanes for vehicles, storm drains to prevent water from pooling, lighting for better visibility, and enhanced pedestrian crossings with beacons to alert drivers. Those improvements proved to be critical safety solutions for this busy, multimodal neighborhood.
America's Transportation Awards 