This project seeks to solve congestion, mobility, and safety issues on a 5-mile segment of I-5 from SR 500 in Vancouver to Columbia Blvd in Portland, including the I-5 Bridge.
Admittedly, the current bridge configuration does not encourage cyclists or pedestrians to venture out onto the busy highway. Given how fast both cities are growing and that interstate travel just within this metro region is highly common, it makes sense to have a world-class bridge project include world-class bicycle and pedestrian facilities and infrastructure as well. The better these are the fewer cars will be on the road, which means less auto congestion, which means less pollution, which is a good thing.
Identified drawbacks in the current path:
∑ Too narrow (~4ft wide) especially when bikes and peds try to pass each other
∑ Too close to traffic
∑ Little to no protection from noise and debris
∑ Bad connections on both sides of the river puts forces users into wrong direction travel
∑ No sidewalks, bike lanes, or crosswalks in some bridge areas
∑ Insufficient and confusing signage
∑ Difficult for people with disabilities to navigate
∑ Inadequate lighting.
The Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Group has been meeting once or twice a month to discuss and determine the best way to move forward with the ped/bike path on the new or refurbished I-5 Bridge. They have reviewed the various state (WA and OR) and city (Vancouver and Portland) standards as potential parameters upon which to base their recommendations.
Public input is welcome (can fill out form on website). The group was convened in March 2007 and they meet 9am-12pm on the 4th Wednesday of the month in Vancouver at the CRC office at 700 Washington Street.
What is desirable for the safety of both pedestrians and cyclists is to have a path on both sides of the bridge that will accommodate commuters, exercisers, and those taking some time to enjoy the scenery.
In summation the desirables are:
∑ (2)-12-(2) paths on each side of the bridge, one for each direction of traffic
∑ Grade £ 5%, cross-slopes £ 2%
∑ High friction surfaces
∑ Separation of peds and bikes
∑ Separation of “recreational†and “commuter†cyclists
∑ Grade separated paths
∑ Protection from traffic noise, debris, and “kickupâ€/splatter
∑ Barriers – vehicular, transit, and water
∑ Wind, rain, and headlight glare protection
∑ Minimize exposure to vehicle exhaust
∑ More straight & direct connections on either side of the river
∑ Improved links to public transit
∑ Adequate pathway lighting
∑ Security cameras and phones
∑ “eyes on the streetâ€
∑ Emergency response/maintenance vehicle access
∑ Improved way-finding and directional signage
∑ Amenities – restrooms, benches, trashcans, info kiosks, public art, etc
∑ Bridge aesthetics – architectural detailing, lighting, landscaping
The next Columbia River Crossing Task Force meeting is November 27, 2007.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
WSDOT SW Region Headquarters
11018 NE 51st Circle, Vancouver
A full list of project meetings and events can be found on the CRC website.
