07/20/1988 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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--- e logical location has been found. Mr. Reinhard said starting from the premise that no other locations will be considered creates problems later on in the process. In response to a question from Ms. Schue, Mr. Reinhard said there will most likely be six to eight lanes of traffic on the improved bridge. He said this will also require a review of the existing railroad overpass. Mr. Reinhard also outlined a proposal to build an additional bridge that would link west Eugene to the Valley River area. He said traffic studies have indicated that a "back door" is needed as an alternate to people travel- ing over the bridge at Washington and Jefferson streets or the Ferry Street Bridge. Mr. Reinhard said staff feels a study similar to the Ferry Street Bridge should be undertaken to explore the possibility of a Valley River bridge. One of the reasons staff supports a study is the need to acquire right-of-way in the area while there is still some vacant land. Mr. Miller asked if there is alternate funding for a Valley River bridge study. Mr. Reinhard responded that staff has not explored that option yet, although he said gasoline tax revenue is one option. Because the City is bisected by a river, Ms. Andersen said changes made to each river crossing impact other crossings. She said staff is recommending that the Valley River bridge be studied at this time before opportunities to e construct a bridge become more limited as the area is developed. I In response to a question from Mr. Holmer, Ms. Andersen said the Ferry Street Bridge EIS would not include the Valley River bridge area. She said staff is now developing a funding proposal for the Valley River bridge for considera- tion during the September-December Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) process. She said staff would not initiate a study until the project has been adopted in the CIP. Ms. Bascom asked how the Chambers connector will tie in with the Valley River bridge. Ms. Andersen said staff envisions a river crossing that would not conflict with the Chambers connector. She estimated the demand for a cross- ing in the area will become apparent after the Chambers connector is opened next winter. The meeting was adjourned at 12:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, ~" ~ . ~~." M;cheal Gleason City Manager (Recorded by Todd Nissen) e MINUTES--Eugene City Council July 20, 1988 Page 4