Walker Rd ped/bike bridge project

1. 4/30/2009
Metro Transportation Planning and Development
600 NE Grand Avenue
Portland, OR 9723
Fax: 503-797-1930
trans@oregonmetro.gov
To Whom It May Concern:
This letter is in reference to the request for public comment regarding proposed government
transportation projects listed for the Federal Stimulus Package.
On behalf of the Five Oaks-Triple Creek Neighborhood Association Committee in Beaverton, I am
writing to request that the Walker Road Pedestrian /Bike Bridge project be retained as a top priority on
the list of projects submitted by Washington County Department of Land Use and Transportation.
Problem Statement:
For eight years the Five Oaks-Triple Creek NAC has worked to request that safety and livability
improvements be made to Walker Road. While the county acknowledges and agrees this section of the
road is an important improvement project they have been unable to secure funding. This portion of
roadway, at the crossing of Willow Creek, accommodates vehicles only, with very narrow 12quot; gaps
between the 45-MPH travel lanes and guard rails on either side of the paved surface. Pedestrians and
cyclists are continuingly crossing this section putting themselves dangerously at risk for injury in order to
pass between NW Cambray and NW 174th terrace due to a lack of alternative crossing structures along
either side of the road. Side walks abut both sides of the Willow Creek south culvert where the project
bridge is proposed for placement. This is only a limited, stop-gap solution to a portion of a much more
serious problem of pedestrian safety and impediment along the Walker Rd corridor.
As a group of concerned citizens for the safety and well being of our neighbors we therefore respectfully
request this project be approved for funding.
The following groups have been engaged to align with us on this much needed bridge:
• Five Oaks-Triple Creek NAC, Chair – David Kamin
• Washington County, Todd Watkins
• Zimmer Gunsul Fransca Architect Firm, Brian Dueltgen
• SOLV/Take Care of Oregon 150, Steve Kennett
• Tualatin Hill Parks & Recreation District, Steve Gulgren
• Boy Scouts of America, Cascade Pacific Council, Sunset Trail District, Wayne Olmstead
• Rachael Carson Middle School, Tammy Schrader
Respectfully, on behalf of
Five Oaks-Triple Creek NAC & Members
Melissa D. Nourigat
(503) 617-6287
crsclrsl@gte.net