Engineering implements key infrastructure projects in 2024

In 2024, the City of Eugene's Engineering team delivered several long-planned projects, focused on improved safety and accessibility for people walking, biking and rolling. These projects, along with several community events and programs, continue to make progress toward the City's goal to increase walking, biking and using transit.

"This year's projects were designed with safety at the forefront," said Willow Hamilton, transportation community engagement coordinator. "We worked to address long-standing safety concerns and create infrastructure that meets the needs of all road users."

Infrastructure Projects

The Eighth Avenue Streetscape project in downtown Eugene was one of the biggest changes made in 2024. The redesign turned a one-way, high-speed street into a two-way, urban street complete with protected bike lanes. The area around the Park Blocks was pedestrianized, with crosswalk murals and a curbless street that has improved accessibility and created a more inviting public space.

The High Street Bikeway, a long-anticipated connection in the City's All Ages and Abilities bike network, was also completed in 2024. High Street now provides a dedicated north-south route for people biking, scootering, skateboarding and using mobility devices, separate from car traffic.

The Howard Avenue Protected Walking and Biking Space introduced a new approach in a neighborhood without sidewalks. The project added a curb-protected lane for people who walk and bike, offering safer routes for children traveling to Howard Elementary while preserving existing street trees and the neighborhood's rural character.

The MLK Transit and Safety Project and the River Road Protected Intersection were both Vision Zero projects that made safety improvements to busy areas in town. MLK Boulevard, identified as a high-crash corridor, was reconfigured to include Bus and Turn lanes and a new crosswalk near Chevy Chase. The intersection at River Road and Irving/Hunsaker was redesigned to be Eugene's first protected intersection, a layout intended to reduce right-turn collisions and improve safety for people walking, biking and driving.

Lastly, the Fern Ridge Path Lighting project addressed issues with vandalism and poor visibility along the path. Lighting repairs were made at four underpasses, and new lighting was installed between City View and Bailey Hill Road, creating a more comfortable route for users.

Events and Programs

In addition to building infrastructure projects, the City also partnered in several events and programs that promoted active transportation and helped build community.

The annual E-Bike Expo created an opportunity for residents to learn about e-bikes, connect with local bike shops, and receive guidance on laws and purchasing incentives. The Learn to Ride events, organized in partnership with other local organizations, helped both children and adults learn to ride a bike for the very first time.

Events such as the BRiGHT Parade and May is Bike Month celebrated active transportation with community-wide participation, while programs such as Breakfast at the Bike Bridges connected commuters with City staff and offered resources for bike riding. Park(ing) Day explored creative uses of parking spaces by turning a few downtown parking spots into temporary community spaces for art, games and other activities.

Moving Forward

As the City of Eugene wraps up a productive year in transportation, plans are already underway for future projects and programs. The City will continue to focus on improving safety and connectivity for all modes of transportation and encouraging community involvement.

For more information on upcoming projects and events, visit the City of Eugene's transportation website at eugene-or.gov/transportation.

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