What’s New in West Linn?
Hear about West Linn City Council 2024 Priorities and other updates including ODOT’s tolling plans, new transit services proposed by TriMet, tribal engagement, Willamette Falls Locks, and major planning efforts for our Waterfront area, and the Highway 43 corridor.
Speaker:
John Williams
– City Manager, West Linn
What was discussed
- West Linn’s Vision and Challenges: The discussion kicked off with an overview of West Linn’s vision, accomplishments, and shared challenges with Oregon City, especially highlighting the significance of the Willamette River and Willamette Falls to both communities.
- Infrastructure and Tolling: A significant portion of the conversation was dedicated to the challenges and opposition to tolling on local infrastructure, specifically the I-205 and the George Abernathy Bridge. The financial implications of tolling, its impact on traffic diversion, and the administrative costs associated with toll management were critically examined.
- Urban Development and Housing: The discussion also touched upon urban development initiatives, including tax increment financing for infrastructure improvements in the historic Willamette area and efforts to address affordable housing needs.
- Community and Recreational Projects: The event highlighted community engagement projects, such as the proposed indoor recreation center and the development of bike and pedestrian paths to improve connectivity within West Linn and between West Linn and Oregon City.
- Waterfront Visioning Project: The waterfront visioning project was identified as a significant opportunity for West Linn, aiming to transform the waterfront area into a vibrant community space while addressing environmental and industrial challenges.
- Collaborative Efforts: The importance of collaboration between West Linn, Oregon City, and other stakeholders, including the role of the Clackamas County and local tribes, was emphasized throughout the discussion, particularly in the context of shared resources, infrastructure projects, and addressing homelessness.
- Legislative and Financial Challenges: The event underscored the legislative and financial hurdles facing local projects, especially in light of Oregon’s tax system and funding mechanisms for transportation and urban development.
- Public Engagement: The importance of public engagement and input in shaping the future of West Linn’s urban landscape, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives was a recurring theme.
Thank you to The City of West Linn for sponsoring this event.
