Neighborhood greenways are transforming city streets into vibrant, people-centric spaces. These low-speed, low-traffic routes prioritize the safety and comfort of pedestrians and cyclists, fostering a stronger sense of community and encouraging active lifestyles. By implementing thoughtful design elements, neighborhood greenways create an inviting environment for everyone to enjoy their local streets.
What is a Neighborhood Greenway?
At its core, a neighborhood greenway is a street redesigned to be more than just a thoroughfare for vehicles. It’s a space where all street users, especially those walking and biking, feel safe and comfortable. This is achieved through various traffic calming measures, clear wayfinding signage, and pavement markings that guide and protect vulnerable road users. The primary aim is to shift the focus from vehicular speed and volume to creating a harmonious balance that benefits the entire neighborhood.
Why Alder Street Became a Greenway
Alder Street in Eugene, Oregon, specifically the section between 24th and 27th Avenue, was identified as an ideal candidate for a neighborhood greenway. Originally slated for repaving in 2019 as part of a pavement preservation project funded by the 2017 Pavement Bond Measure, Alder Street was already undergoing necessary infrastructure updates. The City of Eugene’s Transportation System Plan 2035 (TSP) had previously designated Alder Street as a future Neighborhood Greenway stretching from 24th to 35th Avenue. This repaving project presented a perfect opportunity to integrate greenway elements seamlessly and cost-effectively. By combining the repaving with greenway improvements, the city maximized resources to enhance Alder Street for the community.
Key Features of the Alder Street Greenway
The transformation of Alder Street into a neighborhood greenway involved several key enhancements designed to improve safety and comfort for pedestrians and cyclists:
Traffic Calming for Safer Speeds: To reduce vehicle speeds and create a more pedestrian and bike-friendly environment, speed bumps were installed along Alder Street from 24th to 30th Avenue. These traffic calming measures are essential for making the street feel safer and more approachable for all users.
Traffic Circle for Controlled Intersections: At the intersection of 28th Avenue and Alder Street, a neighborhood traffic circle was introduced. This roundabout design replaces traditional stop signs, improving traffic flow and reducing potential conflict points, ultimately making the intersection safer for everyone navigating it.
Shared Lane Markings (Sharrows) for Bike Awareness: To clearly indicate the presence of cyclists and guide them on the roadway, shared lane pavement markings, often referred to as “sharrows,” were added on Alder Street from 24th to 30th Avenue. These markings remind drivers to share the road and help cyclists position themselves safely within the lane.
Enhanced Pedestrian Crossings for Easier Access: Improvements were made to pedestrian crossings to facilitate safer and easier street crossings for those walking and biking. Curb extensions were implemented at the intersection of 25th Avenue and Alder Street, effectively shortening crossing distances and improving visibility. Additionally, ramps were added to the pedestrian crossing at 30th Avenue to ensure accessibility for all.
Diversion for Reduced Traffic Conflicts: Building upon existing traffic diversion measures at 24th and 19th Avenue on Alder Street, further turn restrictions were implemented at 19th Avenue. Specifically, left turn restrictions were put in place to minimize potential conflicts and enhance safety at this intersection. For a detailed visual representation, refer to this graphic Opens a New Window. .
Experience Alder Street Greenway
The Alder Street Neighborhood Greenway exemplifies how thoughtful urban design can transform ordinary streets into valuable community assets. By prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists, projects like this contribute to healthier, more connected neighborhoods. Explore Alder Street and experience firsthand the benefits of a well-designed neighborhood greenway.
Contact Information
For further details regarding the Alder Street Neighborhood Greenway project, please contact Reed Dunbar, Transportation Planner at the City of Eugene, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 541-682-5727.
