Expect Delays: PBOT Embarks on Safety Enhancements on SE Stark Street in Portland

Portland residents and commuters, brace yourselves for sporadic slowdowns on SE Stark Street. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is in full swing with their safety enhancement endeavors, specifically, they're constructing a concrete barrier to protect a bike lane stretching from SE 108th to SE 122nd avenues. This development is part of a chunky $23 million "Safer Outer Stark" initiative aimed at revamping the notorious high-crash corridor in East Portland.

During weekdays, through Jan. 6, traffic will be impacted intermittently as the contractor Titan Utilities, LLC, lays down the reinforced barriers within the one-foot buffer separating the bike lanes and the vehicular lanes. According to PBOT's announcement, work hours are pegged at 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, with one lane maintained around work zones.

The eastbound lane closures began last week, starting at the western end of the project area at SE 108th Avenue, moving eastward. The current leg is expected to wrap up by Dec. 5, followed by the westbound lane, initiating at SE 122nd Avenue and concluding by Jan. 6, 2026. Local access to residences and businesses will stand unaffected; however, PBOT advises travelers to expect delays, play it safe, and heed directions from flaggers, or to opt for alternative routes when feasible.

Previous phases have seen the installation of ADA corner ramps in 2023 and street resurfacing earlier this May, extending pavement longevity and staving off potholes. Pedestrian sidewalks will stay accessible during the entirety of the construction phase. Public transit users should peek at TriMet.org for potential service trajectory alterations. This work, however, is subject to the whims of the weather and may see schedule adjustments as needed.

SE Stark Street's transformation is rooted in extensive public engagement harking back to 2019-20, which illuminated significant goals such as slashing fatal and serious crashes, curbing excessive motor speeds, and elevating safety for pedestrians, transit patrons, and cyclists. PBOT's investment strategy also champions improved street conditions and visibility, aligned with the Vision Zero endeavor to eliminate traffic fatalities. The pot of funds fueling this comprehensive effort includes contributions from state bills, the city’s general fund, development charges, federal funds, and even a splash from Cannabis Tax revenues.

For further details or questions regarding the ongoing work and how it may influence your daily jaunt, reach out to the Safer Outer Stark Project Team at [email protected] or dial 503-318-8485.