Agenda Packet - 1999-04-21� 1AGENDA
OLD RIVER ROAD AD-HOC TASK FORCE
Work Session
April 21, 1999
6:00—8:00 p.m.
City of Lake Oswego—Human Resources Conference Room
380 "A" Avenue
I. Review of Proposed Findings,Design and Management Solutions to Guide
Improvements to Old River Road (Attachment"A) (6:00 p.m.—6:45 p.m.)
II. Review of Proposed Design Treatments to Old River Road (6:45 p.m. to 7:30
p.m.)
III. Review of City Council Charge Statement (7:30 p.m. —7:45 p.m.)
IV. General Discussion and Announcements (7:45 p.m.—8:00 p.m.)
V. Adjournment(8:00 p.m.)
Please bring your April 7, 1999 agenda packet to this meeting.
This is a work session involving the Task Force only. The public is invited; however,
there will be no verbal public comment due to the need to make progress on the
above issues. Those wishing to provide comment at this meeting are encouraged to
do so writing.
File: au]rwsl
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p4`ACE OgH,EcO Old River Road
1�► AD-Hoc Task Force
mu
Memorandum
OREGOs
TO: Co-Chairs Sister Eileen Brown, Mike Anderson and Members of the Old
River Road Ad-Hoc Task Force
FROM: Ron Bunch, Long Range Planning Manager
RE: Task Force Work Session -- April 21, 1999
DATE: April 15, 1999
As you recall, at the end of our April 7, 1999 meeting Co-Chairs Sister Eileen and Mike
Anderson expressed the need to meet sooner than our regularly scheduled May 1999
meeting. This is because the group was unable to satisfactorily complete review of the
April 7 agenda items. Therefore, a Task Force work-session has been scheduled for April
21, 1999 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Human Resources Conference Room on the first
floor of Lake Oswego City Hall.
There are at least three things the Co-Chairs wish to accomplish at the work session to
provide explicit direction to staff so they may prepare for the Task Force's May 1999
meeting. They are:
Review, and as necessary revise the proposed findings, design and management solutions
to guide improvements to Old River Road. This was Attachment "B" in your April 7,
1999 packet and is provided in this packet as Attachment"A". It is suggested that the
Task Force review the minutes of its previous meetings and those of the neighborhood
meeting held February 16, 1999 as part of this process. Copies are appended as
Attachment"B". Please note, I have not been able to prepare the April 7, 1999 to date. It
is expected a draft will be completed for the work-session.
Review and provde additional comment on proposed design solutions for Old River
Road. David Ausherman, of Fregonese Calthorpe and Associates will have made some
changes to the proposed design solutions to reflect some of what was heard at the
meeting. It is important that the Task Force be prepared to provide additional guidance to
staff in this regard.
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Review of the City Council's Charge Statement. The charge statement provides the basis
for the Task Force's work and establishes the role of whole Task Force, as well as each of
its members. A copy is appended as Attachment"C".
This is a work session involving the Task Force only. The public is invited; however,
there will be no verbal public comment due to the need to make progress on the above
issues. Those wishing to provide comment at this meeting are encouraged to do so
writing.
Please bring your April 7, 1999 agenda packet to this meeting.
Thank you!
Copy: Doug Schmitz, City Manager
Tom Coffee, Assistant City Manager
Interested Parties
File omvs1
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f.
ATTACHMENT A
PROPOSED FINDINGS,DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS TO
GUIDE IMPROVMENTSTO OLD RIVER ROAD AND GLENMORRIE DRIVE
The following summarizes and formats Task Force and Neighborhood discussions to date
into findings of current conditions and design, policy and management solutions. This
forms the basis of design criteria which will be used to propose actual desing solutions.
CATEGORY 1: TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY
FINDING(S):
1. There are significant and dangerous conflicts between autmobiles, pedestrians and
recreational users of Old River Road.
2. Glenmorrie Drive is narrow and very dangerous to pedestrians and bicyclists,
especially in areas where there is no shoulder refuge for the pedestrian/bicyclist.
SOLUTIONS:
Category 1, Traffic Management and Safety Design Measures
1. Install traffic mangement devices such as speed bumps, and one-way queing
(pinchdowns) on Old River Road to ensure vehicle speeds are maintained at 25 m.ph.
or less on all parts of the road.
2. Separate vehicular and pedestrian/bike traffic at the intersection of Glenmorrie Drive,
Old River Road and the George Rogers Park trail.
3. Stop signs (warning signs at the least) and rumble strips at the sharp corner where Old
River Road intersects with Glenmorrie Drive to make drivers think, stop and
negotiate.
4. Monument entry signs at the Lake Oswego/West Linn City limits that inform people
that they are entering a recreational area
5. The construction of a pathway on the east side of Old River Road along its entire
length.
6. Shoulder improvements and construction of a pathway on Glenmorrie Drive.
7. Pavement management (overlays) and drainage improvements are required in
conjunction with installation of traffic mangement devices and pathway construction.
8. Where possible, native landscaping particularly, tree planting should occur within the
right-of-way (sensitive to the views of area residents and walkers).
9. School bus stops should be located and designed to reduce danger to children.
10. Fix damaged and deterioated guard rails.
Category 1, Traffic and Safety City Policy and Management Measures
1. Old River Road and its right-of-way should be designated as a recreational resources,
such as a linear walking park and managed to ensure the safety of recreational users
and quality of life of area residents.
2. A law/regulation enforcement effort should be developed and implemented germane
to the road and the types of uses it receives, especially if it is designated as a
recreational resource (linear park).
3. Allow temporary closures on weekends, and evaluate whether the road could be
closed in the evenings as are some parks after a certain time.
CATEGORY 2: ENVIRONMENT AND AESTHETICS
FINDING(S)
1. Glenmorrie Drive and especially Old River Road and their right-of-ways exits within
a complex and highly regulated natural environment.
2. Aesthetics and environmental quality are very important to those who live along these
roads and to all other users.
SOLUTIONS
Category 2, Envrionment and Aesthetics Design Solutions
1. Maintain the "country lane quality/rural street quality of the road by ensuring that the
amount of new hard surface (asphalt) for pathways is the minimum necessary to
address the above conflicts between automobiles and other users.
2. Improve the appearance of the sewer pump station at the intersection of Glenmorrie
and Old River Road.
Category 2, Environment and Aesthetics City Policy and Management Measures
1. Ensure that all future improvements are designed consistent with the City's public
improvement design guidelines (Attachment F) and with all applicable City, state and
federal regulations.
2. Work with all property owners, especially the major land holders, Sisters of the Holy
Names and Marylhurst University to enhancement the natural resources of the
Willamette River Greenway and protect native plants and wildllife.
3. Enforce the Municipal Code relating to the storage or vehicles, boats and equipment
and other items within the public right-of-way.
4. Educate the public regarding living and recreating within the Willamette River
Greenway.
CATEGORY 3 - RECREATION AND SCENIC QUALITY
FINDINGS
1. Provide a park-like experience for walkers. However, this term needs to be defined
and the nature of the recreatioal experience designed to address concens about
congregation and security.
2. The use of Old River Road changes character during different times of the day.
During week day a.m. and p.m. travel peak it is a hazard for pedestrians. During low
traffic times it is a pleasent walking experience.
3. Parts of the right-of-way are also people's yards. Some landscape encroachments
have occured.
SOLUTIONS:
Category 3, Recreation and Scenic Quality Design Solutions
Design the pathway and any associated amenities, if possible, to address neighborhood
concerns about congreation and security.
Future maintenance and improvements to Old River and Glenmorrie Drive should seek to
minimize disturbance of established yards and landscaping.
Do not install street lights or other lighting along Old River Road.
Category 3, Recreation and Scenic Quality City Policy and Mangement Measures
Many of the same City policy and managment measures that are applicable to the above
categories are also applicable to Category 3.
CATEGORY- SECURITY
FINDINGS
1. The ability to park on the road's shoulders poses security problems, because of
drinking parties and a few burgularies. This situation also results in littering and
destruction of natural resources because of fires and trampeling.
2. Car access to the wide spot at the Glenmorrie/Old River Road intersection is a
problem.
3. The presense of a large older population at the future Mary's Woods project(Sisters
of the Holy Names) poses special security issues/concerns.
SOLUTIONS:
Category 4, Security Design Solutions
1. Install guardrails or other barriers in locations to prevent parking along the road's
shoulder in those locations identified to be problems.
2. Install signage that laws are enforced pertaining to trespass, blocking driveways,
dumping garbage, etc.
3. As above, design the pathway and any associated amenities, if possible, to address
neighborhood concerns about congreation and security.
Category 4, Recreation and Scenic Quality City Policy and Mangement Measures
1. Enforce the law at every oppotunity to address security issues such as tresspass.
2. Institute opening and closing hours for the road.
ATTAHCMENT "B"
OLD RIVER ROAD AD-HOC TASK FORCE
January 5, 1998 Meeting - 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Lake Oswego City Hall - Human Resources Conference Room
Members Present: Sister Eileen Brown, Co-Chair,Mike Anderson, Co-Chair, Michael P.
Lammers, Duane Funk, Jamie M. ElIgen, Judy Dauble, Kelly Atwood, Marcia Robertson,
Stan Aschenbrenner
Staff: Ron Bunch,Lake Oswego Long Range Planning Manager and Gordon Howard,
Senior Planner, West Linn
Others: Donna Zajonc, Richard Porn, Jerry Lublink, Gloria Bence, John Fregonese, and
Sandy Carter
I. Introductions, Statements of Interests and Issues
The members introduced themselves and discussed generally their interest in serving on
the Committee. It was stated that the road in the mid 1800's was one of the main roads
on the west side of the Willamette River and the convent of the Sisters on the Holy
Names had been oriented to the River. The Sisters had journeyed up the river and
entered on the riverside of the convent building. It is important from the Sisters'
perspective to develop a long-range vision of the future of the road and the Order's lands
which border it.
The road borders a significant portion of Marlyhurst University's property along its
undeveloped edge. The river front lands, the road lands impart a significant contribution
to the character of the campus. Any change to the character of the road will also change
the character of the campus.
Old Town Neighborhood has interest in the future of the road and desires to ensure its
best use. The neighborhood has experience of living with a park and the process of
compromise for both residential and recreational land uses to co-exist with one-another.
Residents of Glenmorrie have been informally polled regarding the road and expressed
concerns with the volume of traffic on the road,the need to maintain the character and
livability of residential streets, the speed of traffic,preservation of a buffer area between
the road and residential property and protection of natural resources. There is concern
about the outright prohibition of road closure. The question was discussed of whether
this precludes temporary closures to through traffic such as on weekends, so the road can
be primarily used for recreational walking and sightseeing. Additional discussion
focused on safety, especially the speed of traffic --especially trucks, and the danger
posed for walkers. Maintenance of views for property owners and those who use the road
for recreational walking and exercise was identified as important.
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The road also represents an important connection for West Linn residents to Lake
Oswego, especially for school buses. The transportation interests of both West Linn and
the City of Lake Oswego are important to consider in this process because both share a
boundary.Neighborhood quality of life in both communities is important. Connectivity
between the two communities is also important. There may be a lot that can be done to
address traffic calming. The Task Force should acquire good examples of traffic calming
and consider them for use on Old River Road.
The road presents real challenges for siting a pathway because of small narrow shoulders,
the topography, natural resources and the interests of state and federal regulatory
agencies. Further,the road is dangerous as evidenced by deaths of numerous pets and
wild animals caused by cars. The need to protect animals and wildlife must be addressed.
II. Future Meeting Dates and Times
It was determined by general consensus that future meeting dates will be the first
Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The next meeting will be February 3, 1999 at
6:30 p.m. at City Hall.
III. Review and Discussion of Charge Statement and Process and Work Program
and Schedule
Sister Eileen Brown began discussion of the City Council's charge statement by stressing
that the statement is explicit that the Lake Oswego City Council has made a decision not
to close the road, and to designate a pathway on Glenmorrie Drive and Old River Road.
Judy Dauble stressed that"closure"could mean a number of things, such as no
permanent closure,whereby, closure could occur at certain times of the day and/or on
certain days of the week, such as weekend closure.
Kelly Atwood stressed that road connection to Lake Oswego was important, especially
because of school bus connection, but that safety issues must be addressed such as some
kind of speed control. Jamie Ellgen stated that speed is a major problem on the road
because of its physical characteristics. When one walks on the road, it seems that cars are
out of place in the environment. She stressed that Old Town Neighborhood's experience
with George Rogers Park is that some kind of traffic control is necessary to ensure that
residents, walkers and automobiles can coexist.
Upon review of the work-program,the groups stressed the need to have factual data,
which it could analyze and make recommendations from. There was discussion of the
various aspects of the Task Force's charge in that qualitative/aesthetic, quality of life, and
technical aspects (road condition, width, traffic control, utility needs etc.) of
accommodating the needs of those who use the road must be addressed. The traffic
problem was one, which involved balancing automobile use with the fact that the street
was a public place --valued for its recreational and scenic characteristics. Especially
important is to be creative and be sensitive to the environment(human-made and natural).
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There are impacts that are both internal and external to the study area. In terms of traffic
it is important to analyze impacts that are imparted by those who live along the road and
from traffic that is generated from outside the area. The group expressed general
satisfaction with the technical aspects of the work-program. Also, the group desired that
traffic analysis be done over time, such as over a period of several months, during
different times of the week and day. However,it was stressed that the technical analysis
not be done in the abstract. The information should be tied to an actual understanding of
the physical characteristics of the road. Members were urged to actually spend some
time walking along Old River Road.
Staff indicated that they would assemble the necessary information into a report format.
Much of the information existed. However,the past methodology of collecting past
traffic information was questioned by some of those present. Staff stressed that veracity
of conclusions based on technical analysis was essential and that the methodology of
collecting information would be open to review by the Task Force and others.
General community meetings were discussed, Their were questions as to what these
entailed and how would notice be provided to the community. Staff indicated that the
notice area including Old Town, Glenmorrie, Old River Woods Homeowners was not
that large and it would be possible to develop an information flyer and send this material
in advance of a general meeting to property owners. In addition, newspaper display ads,
city newsletters,mailed notices to Neighborhood Association Chairs, would be used.
It was stressed that the charge to the group goes far beyond providing solutions to traffic
problems. These other issues must be addressed as well. For example there are issues
inherent in the number of regulatory agencies that are involved in managing the
Willamette River and its environs. The group asked for a summary of these agencies and
their responsibilities. It was pointed out that east bank of the river up to and perhaps
beyond the road was in the Willamette Greenway. Also, this area is within the
floodway/floodplain. These mean that the Oregon State Parks, LCDC, the Army Corps
of Engineers and the Oregon Division of State Lands all have an interest in the
Willamette River. The members also asked that information pertaining to funding
sources be provided. There was a suggestion that a slide show of traffic calming ideas be
presented.
It was recognized that at the next meeting not all the necessary background information
could be collected. Staff was asked to collect all the information that it could for review
at this meeting. Additional meeting(s) would be necessary to go through the remainder
of the data and research materials and to ensure it was packaged appropriately.
The importance of an effective community outreach program was stressed. However,the
need to ensure effective communication from the public must be balanced with the need
to ensure that the task force meetings are efficient. The best use of the member's
valuable time must be assured. It was stated that a specific time must be on the agenda--
at the end of the meeting, for public comment. However that time should be limited.
Two minutes per person was used as an example with a total of 10 to 15 minutes per
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meeting allowed for public input. Persons should not have to wait until the end of the
meeting, if they had pressing business elsewhere. In this instance, it was discussed that a
short opportunity, such as five minutes, should be provided at the beginning of the
meetings for comment.
Gloria Benece stated that in her conversations with staff, she was assured that there
would be an opportunity to participate in the process. It was important for the Task Force
to consider that one of its objectives should be to ensure a continued quality of life for
residents who live along the road. She wanted to go on record as stating that the residents
and property owners along Old River Road had asked the City Manager and Mayor to
include one of them on the Committee. This was viewed as only fair, since:
• Any actions that occur along Old River Road would most significantly affect those
who live along the road, and
• The City of West Linn is represented by both a neighborhood association,
(Robinwood)and a homeowner's association(Old River Woods). The home owners
association is is comprised of property owners who live in close proximity to Old
River Road. Old River Road residents should have the same consideration.
Jerry Lublink pointed out that there are other issues that affect residents along Old River
Road, such as the sewer overflows that happen during rainstorms --possibly as a result of
undersized pipes and an inadequate pump station.
The task force agreed that the community and especially residents should be involved as
much as possible and in view of the current committee structure, additional meetings
such as"listening posts." could be used to gain valuable citizen input into the process.
Not all of the committee members would have to attend these extra meetings --only
those with schedules that allowed it. The public should be encouraged to put their
comments and issues in writing and technical questions should be directed to staff.
It was determined necessary to develop a list of agency and government contacts. This
would be valuable in identifying possible funding sources. Oregon's salmon restoration
plan was used as an example. Other stakeholders identified as necessary to keep
informed included private utilities and garbage service. The group asked that the West
Linn City Council, City Manager and the Public Works Director be kept informed of its
work. In addition, it was stressed that the West Linn Transportation Board and the
Committees which were working on its Transportation System Plan(TSP)and
Comprehensive Plan be kept informed.
There was no further businesses and the meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Ron Bunch, Long Range Planning Manager
City of Lake Oswego --January 12, 1998 orrroinl ron_bu/p
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OLD RIVER ROAD TASK FORCE
Property Owner Meeting
February 16, 1999
ATTENDANCE:
Residents,Property Owners and Property Owner Representatives: Jerry Lublink,
Nancy Winbigler, Teddy Hendershot, Bob Howell, Kris Howell, Barry Mount, Donna
Zajonc, C.C. Dawell, Karen Porn, Dick Porn, Leslie Lublink,Jerry Lublink, Rick
Jacobson,John Handy, Gloria Benci, David Bartz, John Panichello, Priscilla Panichello,
Task Force Members: Judy Dauble, Stan Ashennbrenner, Sister Eileen Brown, and
Mike Anderson
Staff: Ron Bunch, City of Lake Oswego, David Ausherman, Fregonese-Calthorpe
Sister Eileen and Mike Anderson, Co-Chairs introduced the purpose of the meeting as a
listening effort by the Old River Road Ad-hoc Task Force. It is intended that there will
be more of these meetings to gain input and provide information to those affected by and
interested in the project. The Task Force has been charged with developing an
improvement plan by the Lake Oswego City Council for Old River Road per the
Council's charge statement.
Introductions followed, with a statement of interest by those intending. In general the
speed and amount of traffic with attendant safety problems on Old River Road was
identified as a major problem. Many of those in attendance expressed concern about
future design impacts on their properties. There was a general desire expressed to
maintain the scenic and natural resource character of the road. It seemed to many in
attendance that the amount of traffic on the road was at odds with the roads beautiful
location and large number of recreational users.
Ron Bunch, Long Range Planning Manager with Lake Oswego discussed the history and
background of the project. He related that the City had initially proposed a wide (8-10)
foot path on the east side (river side) of the road in 1992 which had been soundly
opposed bythe residents because of itspotential to increase the pspeed of traffic, impact
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the natural environment and affect the general character of the area. More recently
(October, 1998) Glenmorrie residents had petitioned the City Council to close the road to
through traffic at the West Linn City limits. This proposal engendered opposition from
residents in West Linn who use the road for access to Lake Oswego and whose children
ride the school bus on the road. The City Council's policy is not to close roads.
However, the Council recognized the need to address the problems encountered by those
that use the road and live along it. Also,the Council recognizes the unique quality of the
road and its setting relating to recreational use, natural resources and scenic value.
5 •�
Consequently, the Old River Road Ad-Hoc Task Force was appointed to address these
and other issues identified in its Mission/Charge Statement. The Task Force is directed
to make a recommendation to the City Council by July, 1998.
Those present broke into four work groups to address the following questions. Following
each question are the results of the exercise.
• What are the positive features of living or owning property in this location?
What kinds of problems have you and/or your family personally experienced
with the road including using it for auto transportation,walking and biking?
Positive features:
1. Open space and Natural quality of the area including wildlife habitat. It should be
noted that wild camas exists along the riverbank.
2. Peaceful and quiet character(serenity).
3. Scenic values --views of the Willamette River and its shoreline.
4. Many big and varied trees.
5. A rural quality in the City (An oasis in an urban area).
6. The country lane quality of the road itself.
7. The opportunity to make connection to the outdoors.
8. The pleasure of sharing this area with recreational users.
9. Sense of health -- seeing people exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
10. Connections to parks (George Rogers and Mary S. Young) and the ability to walk to
Lake Oswego.
11. The fact that this road is more than a thoroughfare. It has a range and mix of uses and
values, which should be stressed over its use by the automobile.
Problems and Negative Conditions:
1. Uses conflict on the road such as local and through traffic, walkers, bikers and
speeding cars. Multiple uses need to be resolved.
2. Too many and too fast cars create a noisy and dangerous situation and detract from
the road's positive qualities. This results in anxiety, fear, and anger. This diminishes
significantly the quality of life for users of the road and those who live along it. The
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road is being used, and will be increasingly used, by those wishing to avoid the
growing congestion of Highway 43.
3. Past planning efforts have attempted to manage people instead of traffic.
4. Most of the traffic that uses the road is not generated locally. Much of its comes from
West Linn. Through(cut-through)traffic is a significant problem.
5. Many wild animals and pets have been killed on the road.
6. Fear for the safety of children both by the residents and for those who use the road for
recreational walking and strolling.
7. Children(and adults) cannot safely walk or ride bikes to George Rogers Park. The
Glenmorrie Drive connection is treacherous.
8. Partying and drinking, especially at the corner where Glenmorrie Road and Old River
Road meet and on property owned by the Sisters of the Holy Names. During
discussion of this issue it was stated that a home had been burglarized by persons who
used this location to park and walk to the victim's house.
9. Trespass, especially on the Sister's of the Holy Names property.
10. Littering, dumping of garbage and occasional vandalism of riverside properties
especially of mail/paper boxes.
11. The ugly condition of the City's sewage pumping station at Glenmorrie and Old
River Road.
12. Late night speeding and drunken drivers.The non-patrolled road is used to avoid the
possibility of being pulled over on Highway 43.
13. Road design is an inherent problem. A potentially lethal situation exists at the hairpin
corner where Glenmorrie Drive and Old River Road meet for motorists, bikers and
pedestrians. Drivers do not slow down at this location and there have been many
wrecks. The guardrail at this location has been compromised. The way that the trail
from George Rogers Park intersects Glenmorrie Drive poses a hazardous situation by
exposing pedestrians and bikers to speeding cars, especially those who lose control on
the corner. It should be noted that many wrecks do not show up in the police reports
because of the degree of damage done and many persons do not want to face the
police.
14. Pedestrians/runners walk/run both with and facing traffic. Signs or education about
how to use the road are necessary.
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15. School bus stops/pickups are hazardous/scary because commuters don't slow down in
the morning. The road is narrow and any accident with a school bus could have
tragic consequences. Especially during inclement, icy/snowy weather school buses
could be pushed off the road and into the river if a wreck occurred.
16. The general attitude of drivers is a problem. They don't realize how fast they are
going and how dangerous the consequences are.
17. The geology underlying the road may be unstable. The road is prone to slides.
• What kinds of things can be done to Old River Road (the road itself and its 50-
foot right-of-way) to preserve and enhance its character and provide for the safe
use and enjoyment by the community?
1. The best and least expensive solution would be to close the road.
2. Measures should be taken to reduce traffic on the road to those who need to use it
(those who have no alternative route).
3. Traffic in places, like the hairpin turn at Glenmorrie Drive and Old River Road needs
to be slowed to a virtual stop. In this location particularly, drivers should be required
to stop and then negotiate a defined course of action dictated by traffic management
devices.
4. School bus stops must be improved to reduce the danger to children. In particular, the
road is narrow and entirely unsuitable for large vehicles, especially in inclement
weather. The need for a school bus route along this road should be evaluated . The
current use of the road for a school bus route seems to be a recent phenomenon.
5. The recreation, scenic values of the road must be emphasized over the road's
accommodation of through traffic. The road and its right-of-way should be treated
like a recreational resource and managed to ensure the safety of recreational users and
the quality of life of area residents.
6. If the road must remain open, then the traffic/pedestrian/bike conflicts must be
resolved. This requires more than just a modest solution. Traffic management/speed
deterrent devices and actions should be employed such as one lane queuing (pinch-
downs) in some locations, speed bumps, traffic circles (round-abouts) should be
employed. In addition temporary closure of the road to through traffic should, be
considered such as on the weekends and even at night on the weekdays, maybe
beginning at 10:00 p.m. such as is done for parks. The road could also be
periodically closed for special walking (Volkswalking) and recreation events.
7. Through-traffic should be discouraged by traffic management devices and
encouraged to use Highway 43. Use of the road by cars should be made more
complex. Now it is just a"straight-shot" that encourages speeding.
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8. Landscaping, and natural resource enhancement of the Willamette River Greenway.
Creation of a sense of narrowness along the road, through tree planting where
possible should be considered.
9. The road should not be widened by the construction of wide pathway as was proposed
before. If a pathway is necessary, then it should be narrower than previous proposals.
There was also discussion as to whether a pathway was necessary if the road
appropriately managed.
10. A neighborhood park is needed along the road for residents and others to use. There
needs to be place to go to, stop,rest, and picnic, view the river, etc. If the road is
developed more as recreational resource,there should be a beginning and a
destination to one's experience. Signage, especially"local traffic only", is needed to
let all users know that they are entering a special area..
11. Enforcement of traffic laws.
12. Traffic management is needed at the corner of Glenmorrie Drive and Old River Road.
Cars should not be allowed to park at the corner. Area lighting is needed at the
corner. Parking by private automobiles along the road, other than by service vehicles
should be prevented.
13. Those using Old River Road,walkers, bicyclists and especially cars, must realize that
they in a recreation/walking zone. Drivers must moderate their behavior to take this
into account.
14. Find examples of where this type of situation has been positively addressed
elsewhere. Examples must exist where recreational walkers, sight-seers, cyclists and
automobiles and adjoining private property interests have been accommodated and
made more compatible than exists in this situation. Washington Park in Portland
might be an example.
15. Long term management of the road must involve a partnership between the
residents/property owners, Glenmorrie neighborhood and the City. Planning efforts
such as this one must involve direct representation by those who live and own
property along the road.
Meeting Summary and Discussion:
Additional discussion followed the presentation of the above issues,problems and
solution concepts to the entire group. It was stressed that many more additional
recreational users will come to the road as result of the Mary's Woods project. Some of
these new users could have physical disabilities which makes it even more important to
manage the already existing pedestrian/vehicle conflict. Furthermore, the security
concerns of these users are very important to keep in mind.
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The City was advised to check on the actual right-of-way dimensions of the road. In
some places the r.o.w. could be as narrow as 30 feet. In addition,the road may be out of
the right-of-way. It was mentioned that the actual road pavement might be out of the
right-of-way in some places. A survey will be needed before any improvements are
engineered. The historic character of the road also represents a resource. Any future use
of the road should keep in mind the historic character that could be used as an interpretive
resource.
Several persons stressed that much traffic,which uses the road, is"discretionary" in
nature. In other words, alternative routes exist which are, or almost, as efficient as using
Old River Road/Glenmorrie Drive. If multiple uses of the road are to be accommodated
then much of this traffic must be encouraged to use other routes. An example that this
can actually happen was the substantial decrease in the amount of traffic, which occurred
during, and for a short time after, recent utility work being done on Old River Road. This
traffic had to go somewhere during this time and it was opined that it shifted to Highway
43.
In addition, there are many pedestrian circulation pattern/systems that occur in the
neighborhood which affect and are affected by the road. These should be considered in
the planning process. For example, pedestrians walk from Stonebridge to Glenmorrie,to
Old River Road and then to the public parks in Lake Oswego and West Linn. With this
in mind, other residents of the neighborhood, particularly those who live on Glenmorrie
Drive must also have an opportunity to participate in this and other planning processes.
The ongoing neighborhood plan is a good opportunity for this to happen to also address
other pedestrian and vehicular circulation issues in the Glenmorrie Neighborhood.
Future traffic counts and speed studies were discussed. There was concern expressed that
traffic counts may not actually express the speeds on the road since a tendency has been
observed that people slow down when they see the counters. New traffic counts and
speed studies, in the currently charged atmosphere might provide misleading information.
Also it was observed that following the Council meetings on Old River Road in October,
1998, traffic did go a bit slower,but has now speeded up. A suggestion was made to use
optic counters and or/video cameras. Video cameras would actually record license
plates and behavior of drivers and walkers.
Appreciation was expressed to the Old River Road Task Force for this opportunity and
those in attendance expressed the desire to continue be involved. It was once again
stressed that property owners on Glenmorrie Drive and Stonebridge Way not be left out
of this process. Future meetings could involve these persons.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Ron Bunch
Long Range Planning Manager
10 lId
ATTACHMENT A
OLD RIVER ROAD AD-HOC TASK FORCE
March 3, 1999 Meeting- 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Lake Oswego City Hall-City Council Chambers
Members Present: Sister Eileen Brown, Co-Chair, Mike Anderson, Co-Chair, Michael
P. Lammers, David Dodds (alt. for Duane Funk), Judy Dauble, Kelly Atwood, Marcia
Robertson,
Jamie M. Ellgen, Excused
Stan Aschenbrenner, Excused
Gordon Howard, Excused
Staff: Ron Bunch, Lake Oswego Long Range Planning Manager and David Ausherman,
Fregonese, Calthorpe & Associates
Others: Gloria Bence, Sandy Carter,Bob Howell,Kris Howell,John Panichello, Priscilla
Panichello
The meeting was convened at 6:35 p.m.
I. Review and Approval of Minutes and Work Program
The January 5, 1999 meeting minutes and the amended work program were approved by
general consensus.
II. Report on the Results of the February 16, 1999 Property Owner Meeting
The results of the 2/16/99 Property Owner Meeting were discussed. It was noted that the
issue of how to deal with conflicting modes of transportation and uses (traffic vs.
recreational walking and biking)has been a long-standing issue. It was stressed that, the
results of this evening's meeting, combined with ideas generated at the property owners
meeting, would be used by staff and the City's consultants as criteria to develop design
solutions.
Kelly Atwood noted that there was mention in the minutes, "that the best and cheapest
thing to do would be to close the road." He stressed that closing the road is not an option,
because of the Lake Oswego Council's direction to the task force. However, conflict
between cars and pedestrians need to be resolved. This conflict causes anger on both
sides. For example drivers are often accosted by the rudeness of pedestrians and
pedestrians feel threatened by cars. Staff stated that this statement was in the minutes
just as an accurate recordation of the proceedings of the minutes. Sister Eileen affirmed
that closing the road is not an option. The Council has, in its charge statement to the
Task Force, confirmed the point.
11 1�
David Dodds,wished to go on record by stating that fear for personal safety is very
realistic. Widening the street, or giving the impression of a wider street is not
appropriate. Speeds increase and the safety of, pets,wild animals, children, pedestrians,
bicyclists is lessened. It has been his experience, that controlling speeds by installing
speed bumps and other traffic management devices would address many of these
problems. In his own neighborhood in West Linn, speed bumps have caused many
speed-related problems to cease-- especially since installation;he has not seen any pets
killed. Speeds have been lessened to the extent that people walk in the road. Mr. Dodds
cautioned the City to be careful with plans to utilize right-of-way that had been developed
by the public for landscaping.
The Task Force reviewed the results of the citizen meeting held on February 16, 1999.
There was general agreement about the positive features of the roadway. In addition there
was general agreement about the problems along the road. It was stressed again that both
the positive and negative aspects of the road have been discussed for many years and a
solution needs to be proposed to resolve the obvious conflicts and stress the positive
attributes.
Staff was asked to address a list of"what kinds of things can be done to Old River Road"
from a design and City policy perspective and provide this information at the next
meeting in April 1999. It is intended that implementation of these suggestions will be
shown from a design perspective. It was stressed that Glenmorrie Drive in addition to
Old River Road also needs to receive attention through this process.
III. Summary of Draft Old River Road Technical Report, Past Correspondence
and Citizen Comment
Staff summarized the above material. The technical report was reviewed and it was
stressed that it was a step beyond an outline format and is essentially a work in progress.
It will be complete when the Task Force makes its recommendation. A substantial record
of past citizen comment and council action was provided for background and context for
issues surrounding Old River Road and Glenmorrie Drive. Staff wished to point out, that
the Committee's charge is to also make recommendations regarding pedestrian
improvements (multi-purpose pathway)to Glenmorrie Drive.
IV. Task Force Discussion of Old River Road/Glenmorrie Drive Design and
Management Criteria.
The task force divided the prospective design/management criteria into the following five
categories:
• Traffic Management and Safety
• Environment/Aesthetics
• Recreation/Scenic Quality
• Security
• Other
12 11
Members from the public were invited to comment and participate with the Task Force in
identifying design criteria associated with each of the above. The criteria/design issues
were not prioritized..
Traffic Management and Safety
1. Address the speed problem through traffic management devices such as speed bumps
and other types of engineered traffic calming devices such as one-way queuing
(pinch-downs).
2. Develop a traffic enforcement policy germane to the road and types of uses it
receives.
3. Ensure the (a) speed limit is posted, visible and enforced.
4. Stop sign on both legs, at the sharp corner where Glenmorrie Drive intersects with
Old River Road. Drivers should be made to stop, think and negotiate. Rumble strips
could also be used.
5. An entry notice(sign or monument) that tells people that they are entering a special
area.
6. A management policy that provides for weekend closure or special event closure
should be investigated.
7. A pathway that provides refuge for pedestrians from traffic.
8. Road maintenance issues must be addressed. The pavement is in poor condition.
Also, there is very poor surface water management (storm drainage) and no shoulder
what-so-ever in some locations. If improvements are funded to address
traffic/pedestrian conflicts, these types of deferred maintenance issues must also be
addressed.
It was discussed that some of the above proposals might not be consistent with the City's
policy of managing local residential streets. It was suggested that the road might be
treated more like a recreational resource than a street, which would allow for such things
as very strict speed controls,traffic management measures and landscape design.
Environment/Aesthetics
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1. Maintenance and enhancement of the natural environment is important. English ivy
is killing the trees on the Sister's of the Holy Names riverside property.
2. Public education is important such as providing information regarding the
responsibilities of living adjacent to the Willamette River Greenway,
3. Debris, unused vehicles, boats and equipment are stored within the road right-of-way.
4. Protect and enhancement, native plant species, esp. rare plants such as camas.
5. Provide an environment that provides wildlife habitat and protection
6. Any improvements must be designed and managed consistent with all environmental
regulations.
7. Maintain country lane/rural street quality of the road.
8. Provide the public (walkers only)some access to the river. This statement was
discussed at length. To many, it conflicted with the need to maintain security and
prevent trespass. This issue is especially important to the Sisters of the Holy Names
who experience significant problems currently.
Recreation/Scenic Quality
1. Strategic stopping for walkers—provide a park like experience. This statement
was also discussed at length. Some members of the Glenmorrie Neighborhood
are uncomfortable with the discussion of developing a park or promoting a park-
like setting. There are concerns about congregation and security. More definition
of this concept is needed. Is it a large or small area, would it provide fixed
facilities such as benches, picnic areas, viewpoints—would access to the river be
provided?
2. The road changes character during different times of day. During weekdays in the
morning and evening, it is hazard for pedestrians. During low traffic times it can
be a pleasant walking experience.
3. Pathway may or may not be necessary. Other traffic management devices should
be used and then perhaps a pathway should be installed. It was noted that
mention of a pathway needs to be in all the categories of discussion. The ability to
walk/bike safely for all ages is the focus of this process.
4. Parts of the road are also parts of people's yards. Landscape encroachment has
occurred into the right-of-way.
5. There is lots of recreation on the road. Sometimes it seems that all 20' paved
width of the road is needed for recreational walking and strolling.
14 2 I
Security
1. The ability to park on the road's shoulders poses security problems. Restrict parking
along the road, especially in places where access to the river across private property
has occurred. Of particular concern is the ability to park late at night on the road and
go to favorite "party" spots.
2. Car(parking) access to the road shoulder at the Glenmorrie/Old River Road
intersection is a problem.
3. Open and closing hours for the road as has been discussed before.
4. Signage that states certain laws are enforced and then enforce them. This will get the
word out that drinking, speeding, dumping garbage etc. will be prosecuted.
Other
1. People park their cars at Mr. and Mrs. Howell's property and trespass and even block
the driveway to get to the river.
2. No additional lighting along the road. There was a general sentiment against any
kind of lighting because of light pollution.
3. Convex mirrors at the sharp Glenmorrie Drive/O1d River Road Turn.
It was questioned by a member of the public why the process was going into such detail.
It was stated that the problems were obvious and the solutions were as obvious.
Connection to West Linn was identified as important and that people used the road on
foot and in cars because of its scenic attraction. Weekend/evening closure would have to
provide some kind of turn-around and may not be the best approach.
There was some disagreement between members of the audience if the general
philosophy of accommodating traffic and connectivity was appropriate. A Glenmorrie
resident stated that connectivity is not relevant because,these are two different
neighborhoods. Connectivity is important where necessary. In this instance West Linn
residents have an opportunity to get to Lake Oswego via Highway 43.
Speeds should be kept under 25 M.P.H., which is especially important for the safety of
children. If speeds were kept low, the marginal time difference of using Old River Road
would be nullified and traffic might decrease.
River access can be accomplished at George Rogers Park. There is no reason for river
access along Old River Road.
The guardrail at the Glenmorrie Drive/Old River Road intersection needs repair.
Reflective tape might also help.
15 ZZ
Co-Chair Sister Eileen Brown stated that staff would take the criteria generated by this
evening's meeting and also the results of the previous meetings and put pen to paper and
develop some design solutions for consideration at the Wednesday, April 7, 1999
meeting. Co-Chair Mike Anderson stated that after the next meeting another
neighborhood meeting would be held. Following that, staff would refine the concept at
the Task Force's direction, develop a preliminary report and then a general public
meeting would follow.
There was no further business and the meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
Ron Bunch
Long Range Planning Manager
March 11, 1999
16 g,j
ATTACHMENT C
CITY OF LAKE OSWEGO
Old River Road Ad-Hoc Task Force
Ad-hoc Task Force Mission/Charge Statement
October 27, 1998
OBJECTIVES
The Lake Oswego City Council has determined that it is in the City's interest to convene
interested and affected parties to:
1. Undertake a study of issues and c nditions which now, and will in the future
affect Old River Road
2. Reach a general consensus regarding the Road's future character and the level and
type of improvements necessary to ensure:
a. Safety of neighborhood residents, pedestrians, bicyclists and automobile
drivers;
b. Adequate emergency vehicle and school bus access.
c. River Road's continued function as a residential street consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan, in particular:
i. The need for safety for all modes of travel;
ii. The recognition of the multi-use function of neighborhood streets for
walking, bicycling and social interaction which preserves the privacy,
quiet and safety of neighborhood living;
iii. The provision of safe access to abutting lands;
iv. Adequate and safe circulation from residential properties to the major
streets system and neighborhood activity centers, and
v. The need for connectivity of local streets to the surrounding
transportation system.
d. Maintenance and where possible enhancement of the Willamette River
Greenway and other natural resources per the City's Sensitive Lands
Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan and Statewide Planning Goal 15:
Willamette River Greenway.
e. The preservation of River Road's character as a recreational resource for
walking, biking and sightseeing.
1 Z
DIRECTION
The work of Ad-hoc Task Force shall not depart from Council's decision of October 16,
1998 that Old River Road not be closed. In addition, Council has directed that the TSP
designate future shoulder pathways on the length of Old River Road within the City
limits and on Glenmorrie Road from its intersection with Highway 43 to Old River Road.
The Task Force shall determine alignments for these future pathways.
The Ad-hoc Task Force shall recommend measures to accomplish the above objectives
through study and analysis of issues which include but are not limited to the following:
1. Enforcement of traffic regulations;
2. Use of traffic management devices including those which direct and calm traffic;
3. Road maintenance (pavement, shoulder, clear vision requirements, and storm
drainage);
4. Alignment of the above shoulder pathways and mitigation, as necessary, of negative
impacts on the Willamette River Greenway and other natural resources such as tree
groves and stream corridors;
5. Encroachments of private improvements within the public right-of-way;
6. Parking within the public right-of-way.
7. Potential tree planting and other landscape enhancements within the public right-of-
way and Willamette River Greenway to enhance scenic quality and neighborhood
character;
Where possible, the Task Force's analysis of the above shall include identification of
costs and funding proposals.
ORGINAZATION
The Ad-Hoc Task Force shall consist of representatives from the following
neighborhoods, neighborhood organizations, public and private institutions/agencies and
the general public.
Lake Oswego (One position for each of the listed associations, institutions and general
public)
• Glenmorrie Neighborhood Association;
• Old Town Neighborhood Association;
• Marylhurst College;
ZJ,
2
• Sisters of the Holy Name, and;
• A citizen-at-large not from either of the aforementioned neighborhood associations.
The City Manager shall appoint a city staff member to work with the Task Force to
execute its charge.
City of West Linn (One position for each of the listed neighborhoods and public
agencies)
• Robinwood Neighbors
• Old River Woods Neighbors
• City of West Linn
Ex-Officio (Participatory but Non-Voting) Membership (One position from the
following Lake Oswego advisory boards)
• Natural Resources Advisory Board (NRAB)
• Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB)
State and Federal Agencies
The following local, county, regional, state and federal agencies shall receive notice and
be provided an opportunity to attend meetings and provide comment:
• Metro Green Spaces
• Clackamas County—Department of Transportation and Development
• Oregon State Parks —Willamette River Greenway Division
• Oregon Division of State Lands, and
• Oregon Department of Transportation.
• City of Lake Oswego School District
Chair: The mayor shall appoint a chair and vice-chair from the above membership. City
staff shall be responsible for assembling and compiling all information and reports
necessary for the progress of work. In the chair's absence, the vice-chair shall conduct
the meetings.
Meetings: Meetings shall occur at least once a month. The date and times of meetings
shall be established at the first meeting or by an indication of general consensus
thereafter.
Quorums and Decisions: No quorum shall be necessary to conduct business. Decisions
shall be made by an indication of general consensus. When this method does not serve to
establish a clear direction, the chair shall call for a roll-call vote. When agreement cannot
be achieved on an issue, business shall proceed and City staff shall present minority
positions for future Council consideration.
3 4� .
TIME FRAME AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
The work of the Task Force shall be completed in eight months. A report shall be
presented to the City Council no later than July 1999. Following its submittal to the City
Council, the term of the Task Force shall be concluded.
Approved by the City Council:
Date: Nnir mhP r , ] 9 9$
Mayor W.K. Klammer
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