The Oregon Transportation Commission approved 36 multimodal projects from around the state for $40,369,189 in funding, provided by the ConnectOregon V program. LTD, in joint applications with the cities of Eugene and Springfield, was awarded $3.51 million for projects that will continue the community’s development of a strong multimodal transportation system.
Three new bike/pedestrian bridges will be constructed over the Amazon Creek with $2.87 million of the ConnectOregon funding. Of these, the West Eugene EmX project will build two of the bridges; one will be at Buck Street; and the other near Sam Reynolds Street, which is midway between Bailey Hill and Bertelsen Roads (see photo simulations). These connections will make it possible for residents living south of West 11th Avenue to have more direct and safer access to restaurants, businesses, and transportation options along the busy West 11th corridor. Bridge construction is currently scheduled for 2016. In addition, the West Eugene EmX project will build more than five miles of new sidewalk and add two signalized pedestrian crossings on West 11th Avenue. Click here for a video simulation that illustrates how EmX will operate in three areas along the West Eugene EmX corridor (the Buck Street bridge connection is featured in the second scene). A third bicycle/pedestrian bridge will be funded through this grant. This bridge will be located north of West 11th Avenue and will connect Commerce Street to the Fern Ridge Path. The City of Eugene will oversee design and construction of the Commerce Street Bridge.
A second grant for $648,000 was awarded for the construction of two new McVay EmX stations on Franklin Boulevard near the Willamette River Bridge. The City of Springfield is developing the first in a series of roundabouts as part of its Glenwood Refinement Plan, which will result in the need for LTD to relocate the current median station at McVay Highway.
LTD General Manager Ron Kilcoyne noted, “These grants help our community continue developing stronger bike, pedestrian, and transit connections. LTD appreciates the strong support of our local partners, which was a key to LTD securing these grants.”
