Construction Announcement
Alternative Cross Section Drawing (JPG)
A steep section of NE 238th Drive between Arata Road and Oregon Street in Wood Village will close for construction on Thursday, April 1 at 7 a.m. The section will remain closed until early October while a contractor working for Multnomah County widens the road and makes other improvements.
Trucks longer than 40 feet are banned on the hill due to the narrow, steep and curving geometry of the road. The project will widen the road, including:
- A 14-foot southbound (uphill) lane with a 12-foot passing lane
- A 15-foot northbound lane
- 10-foot shared paths for walking and biking on both sides
- Improved drainage and vegetation
The project will allow longer trucks to use this arterial route between Interstate 84 and Highway 26 while improving safety for other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. The road currently has no bike lanes and a narrow sidewalk on one side. The project will also improve drainage that has led to icy conditions on the road in winter.
Traffic Plan
Alternative Routes During Road Closure (JPG)
During the road closure, through traffic should use north/south alternate routes such as 223rd Ave. and 257th Drive and east/west routes such as Halsey Street and Glisan Street.
Access will be maintained for local residents and businesses up to the hard road closure. One sidewalk will remain open to pedestrians between Arata Road and Oregon Street during work.
While closing the road is inconvenient for drivers, it improves safety, reduces construction cost, and shortens the schedule. The contractor plans to work on Saturdays.
The project was a top priority in the East Metro Connections Plan adopted by the cities of east county, Multnomah County and Metro. The purpose of the plan is to improve transportation along arterial roads between Interstate 84 and Highway 26.
Goodfellow Bros. of Wenatchee, WA was awarded the project’s construction contract. The total project cost is $9.1 million. Multnomah County is providing about $1.5 million with the balance coming from ODOT.
For information and to sign up for project updates, visit the 238th Drive Improvement Project webpage.