Central Lane (Eugene-Springfield)

The work of our Regional Network Program ended in 2020, and staff in the Pacific Northwest shifted their roles for 2021.

During this uncertain time for health, economic, and community stability, we are all adjusting our routines to help combat the community spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). Through our mission-driven work to improve the health and well-being of people of all races, income levels, and abilities, and build healthy, thriving communities for everyone, we know that many families rely on schools to be more than just a source of education, but also as community, caregivers, and, most importantly, meal providers.

We’ve been supporting efforts in Eugene-Springfield to explore “tactical urbanism” options for the region. In other words, we’re interested in quick, affordable solutions to make conditions for people walking and bicycling, safer and more convenient.

The City of Eugene is preparing for an E-Scooter Pilot Program, and is currently in the process of drafting new city codes for adoption. Eugene is on track to launch a pilot program in the spring or summer of 2020, but before scooters are deployed, city planners want to hear from you! Feedback will be used to inform how e-scooter operator permit applications are evaluated, and to help determine where and how e-scooters may be used in the community.

This is an update to our earlier coverage of changes to speed setting authority and methodology in Oregon – read our previous post here.

Exciting news for students and families across Oregon - over the summer, community partners received notice of more than $3 Million in Safe Routes to School Non-Infrastructure Grants throughout the state.

June 26, 2019 Update: All eyes are on the Oregon Legislature as the 2019 Session comes to a close. Although we had hoped for a statewide policy to reduce diesel emissions and phase out old dirty diesel engines this session, HB 2007 has been limited to the tri-county area. Still, the bill is a meaninful step forward and necessary to allocate remaining VW Settlement funds. HB 2007 has successfully passed the House and, along with many other important bills, awaits the Senate to resume its business.

The Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) is a new dedicated source of funding for expanding public transportation service in Oregon. (Read our earlier coverage of STIF & activity in the Salem-area). Eighteen of the forty-two eligible transit providers in Oregon have submitted applications for the first STIF review cycle, which started in November 2018.