09/10/1990 Meeting (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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e using the 12th Avenue right-of-way between Willamette and Olive streets is clinic traffic and is either slowing or stopping in the clinic parking lot. Through traffic (which he estimated at 120 vehicles per day) is neither stopping nor slowing and it is that traffic which creates a hazard for pedestrians and bicycles. Mr. Lucas-Roberts indicated that the clinic would propose a different solution if the proposed closure does not work. Brian Churchill, 1610 East 43rd Avenue, spoke on behalf of the Bicycle Committee which supports closing 12th Avenue to vehicular traffic between Willamette and Olive streets. He said that eliminating vehicles will remove one source of conflict in the area, but bicyclists and pedestrians will continue to need warnings of each other's presence in the area. B. King Martin, 2760 Onyx Street, spoke as owner of a business in the vicinity of the proposed closure and daily user of the alley between Olive and Willamette. He opposed the closure because of the harmful effect it would have on business in that area and objected to the privatization of public access. Ed Barthelemy, 1135 Willamette Street, identified himself as the long-time owner of an insurance agency near the Eugene Clinic. He objected to further restriction of access to that particular part of Willamette Street. Wayne Musgrove, 2840 Miramonti Drive, said that he owns property in the area of the proposed closure and considers traffic flow an important issue to all e the property owners. Saying he was interested in the public's safety, he also considered access important. Barbara Mills, no address given, asked why more parking was being added in the area. Referring to Mr. Lucas-Roberts' statement about the addition of landscaping trees, Ms. Mills wondered where 50 trees would be placed. Mayor Miller submitted written testimony from the Eugene Chamber of Commerce and from David R. Lyons. There being no further requests to speak, the public hearing was closed. In response to public testimony, Mr. Reinhard observed that issues of public convenience and access are largely a matter of perception. Recognizing the need for good access, he still recommended closure of 12th Avenue for safety reasons. Mr. Reinhard noted that the issue of trees and landscaping is part of the building permit process. Answering questions from Ms. Ehrman about traffic through the alley, Mr. Reinhard described it as a mixture of eastbound and westbound and said there is presently a stop sign eastbound at Willamette Street. The alley is presently signed as the Eugene Clinic and not as 12th Avenue. Ms. Ehrman encouraged the investigation of alternatives to closing the alley and suggested that speed bumps be considered. Mr. Reinhard pointed out that impediments to emergency vehicle access are typically not recommended. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council September 10, 1990 Page 3