A protected pedestrian crossing in the area was first suggested by a community member as a Pedestrian and Biking Improvement Project candidate. The Urban Road Maintenance District Advisory Committee (URMDAC) reviews the candidates for funding every other year. They approved funding for this project and 11 others in August 2021 after a public comment period. URMDAC then recommended the projects to the Board of County Commissioners. The Board approved them in October 2021.
Pedestrian-count data was collected at the intersection before URMDAC considered the project. The data showed that similar levels of bicyclists and pedestrians cross Garden Home Road at 82nd, 83rd and 84th avenues. This information helped us develop our strategy for upgrading this crossing.
Cyclists use 84th Avenue as the neighborhood bikeway, as it has lower speeds and traffic volumes. A crossing at 84th Avenue will create a direct connection for those accessing the Fanno Creek Trail and Garden Home Park. Fewer people will use the park trails for transportation, making them more inviting for recreational users.