On Monday, August 26, 2024, the city of Independence will install three temporary mid-block crossings on Monmouth Street (OR-51) at 13th Street, the existing mid-block crossing by Central High School, and 17th Street (see the photo). These temporary crosswalks aim to improve safety for students and residents, especially those from Ash Creek Mobile Home Park, by providing safer routes across the highway. Currently, no crosswalks exist between 7th Street and Gun Club Road or between 16th Street and the Monmouth S-curves. 
The crosswalks will be in place for one month, during which the city and the Oregon Department of Transportation will assess their effectiveness. This evaluation will inform permanent improvements and ideally help secure grant funding. The project aligns with priorities identified in the Independence Transportation System Plan and the Central Talmadge Plan. It is being carried out in partnership with our project consultant and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
To learn more about the Central Talmadge Plan, visit: https://www.ci.independence.or.us/central-talmadge-plan/
