The Southeast Linwood Avenue corridor in unincorporated Clackamas County is undergoing a significant transformation. The Linwood Street project, currently in its construction phase, aims to dramatically improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike. Spanning from SE Monroe Street to SE Johnson Creek Boulevard, this roadway redesign focuses on creating a more user-friendly and efficient transportation network.
This comprehensive project addresses critical infrastructure needs along Linwood Street. Key improvements include the construction of continuous sidewalks and dedicated bicycle lanes on both sides of the avenue. Furthermore, the project incorporates upgrades to stormwater management facilities, ensuring environmental responsibility alongside enhanced road functionality.
To enhance safety and usability for all, the redesigned Linwood Street will feature a standardized cross-section. Each side of Linwood Street will incorporate an 11-foot travel lane for vehicles, a 5-foot landscaped buffer strip with greenery, and a spacious 10-foot shared path for pedestrians and cyclists. This thoughtful design prioritizes the separation of traffic types, creating a safer environment for everyone.
The Linwood Street project has progressed rapidly. Design and pre-construction phases are complete, and construction began in March 2023, with an anticipated completion by June 2024. Current activities indicate the project is nearing its final stages. The east side pedestrian path is almost finished, and work on the west side path is underway. Signal upgrades at the Linwood-Johnson Creek Boulevard and Linwood-King Road intersections are also in progress. While weather conditions have slightly delayed final paving and striping to early spring, the majority of the construction is expected to be complete by the end of January. A significant milestone, the pedestrian bridge installation, has already been successfully completed.
The benefits of the Linwood Street project extend significantly to the community. Currently, the lack of continuous sidewalks and bike lanes on many sections of Linwood Avenue creates hazardous conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. This project directly addresses these safety concerns. Moreover, it strategically aligns with planned improvements by the City of Milwaukie on the southern portion of Linwood Avenue, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive upgrade throughout the entire Linwood Street corridor. Upon completion of both projects, the entire Linwood Avenue will offer a safer, more accessible, and connected transportation route for all residents and commuters.
This vital infrastructure project is made possible through a construction budget of $6.8 million, funded by the North Clackamas Revitalization Area (NCRA) urban renewal district. This investment underscores a commitment to enhancing the quality of life and infrastructure within Clackamas County, making Linwood Street a safer and more enjoyable space for everyone.
