01/22/1990 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e analysis has been conducted on what level of service is projected after construction, the current level of service at peak hours is F--the worst condition of service. Ms. Bascom pointed out that the Planning Commission voted to uphold the Hearings Official's denial of a conditional use for a Mobile Home Park in that area because of transportation problems. She asked whether the construction of a five-lane highway will be sufficient to handle the future growth anticipated in that area. Mr. Reinhard said that although a full interchange will need to be built in the future, the current level of service at this intersection demands a solution; construction of a five-lane section will provide some immediate improvement. Mayor Miller opened the public hearing. Jim Ogden, 1199 North Terry #382, spoke on behalf of the Friends of Bethel Schools and Active Bethel Citizens, stating their support for putting this project in the Capital Improvements Program. He said that until Eugene considers this project as a funding priority, the State will take no action. Mr. Ogden emphasized the safety hazard that currently exists in this area. Lauren Heitzman, 2151 Golden Garden, presented a petition from citizens in the Bethel area stating their support for the addition of this project to the CIP and suggesting that the City Council pass a moratorium on any construction off of Barger that would result in additional traffic until such time that turn lanes and an overpass at Beltline and Barger are constructed to handle the traffic problem that already exists. Mr. Heitzman also read a letter from Kent Hunsaker, Bethel School District Superintendent, underscoring the need for a solution to the safety problem around this area. Mr. Heitzman concurred with Mr. Ogden about safety hazards that have arisen out of this situation which result in four to six traffic accidents per year involving children in this area. There being no more requests to speak, Mayor Miller closed the public hearing. Mr. Green said that this has been the number one issue of concern expressed at the neighborhood meetings in these areas and urged the council to put this as a priority in the budget process. Mr. Boles asked how this money will address the safety issue at this intersection. Mr. Reinhard said that construction of a five-lane section on Barger will primarily work toward addressing the congestion problem at the intersection of Barger and Beltline but, in doing so, will make considerable improvements in the operation of the intersection which will lead to fewer traffic accidents. Ms. Ehrman questioned the status of Terry Street and asked whether Terry Street might be part of a potential solution to the problem. Mr. Reinhard said that although Terry Street is planned as an eventual minor arterial, construction on it has not yet been completed. Mr. Miller stressed that a MINUTES--Eugene City Council January 22, 1990 Page 5