Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Portland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in roads
Liberty Street traffic and parking complaints
A resident asked the council to consider making Liberty Street one-way after a new coffee shop brought speeding, traffic conflicts and street parking to a 15-foot-wide road that only six households share.
East Knight Street access and State Route 109 congestion
TDOT reversed its earlier denial of a Highway 109 access because the route will become a city road once the bypass is built. The commission approved an access-only site plan so the owner can secure the permit within TDOT's limited window.
Parkside Boulevard Street Acceptance
The city was asked to accept Parkside Boulevard in the Parkside Estates subdivision as a public street, shifting maintenance to the city.
State Street Aid and Highway 109 Sidewalk Repairs
About $110,000–$113,000 in unspent state street aid from last year rolls into this year's budget. Buckling sidewalks along Highway 109 are being repaired — the city must maintain them even on state right-of-way — and a storm drain issue at Jackson and Highway 109 near Valero needs resolution, though it appears to be the state's responsibility.
Lindsey Kala Circle bridge replacement
The bridge's crushed metal tile was temporarily stabilized but must be fully replaced for about $66,000. Residents will get a temporary gravel bypass during the roughly two-week closure.
Traffic-calming request policy
Everyone wants speed humps on their street after Strawberry Street got them. Staff proposed a neighbor-petition policy like other cities use, but aldermen want strict criteria and possibly resident cost-buy-in before adopting it.
Spring Paving and Park Access Roads
About $229,000 of spring paving is underway, plus $26,000 in storm damage repairs on Tom Ferrell Road. Council approved binder paving of both Richland Park access roads now, with top coat later, before the Strawberry Festival crowds arrive.
Hwy 31W & Hwy 109 turning lane restoration
TDOT removed a northbound turning lane at the intersection; the city pushed back and the state will reinstall it and fix the radius trucks keep destroying, possibly by March.
Jackson Road / Highway 52 Traffic Signal
After years of being told no, a traffic study now warrants a signal at Jackson Road and Highway 52 — but TDOT wants a broader study of surrounding intersections first, and the signal could cost over $400,000.