"The capacity of Salem's streets and bridges is being stretched to the max and we need citizens feedback on our plan." - Mark Becktel, Transportation Services Manager
(SALEM, Ore.) - The Salem Public Works Department will begin a round of "Keep Salem Moving" presentations to neighborhood associations, business groups, civic groups, and other jurisdictions to outline various transportation projects that address citizens' concerns regarding congestion, maintaining existing streets and bridges, and safety.
Over the last several months, the Public Works staff conducted two focus groups and one independent poll, and solicited feedback from over 1,000 citizens regarding their perceptions of local transportation needs.
Citizens identified daily congestion, maintaining the existing infrastructure, and safety as their primary concerns.
"We have heard citizens' concerns regarding their needs and priorities and heard their concerns about cost and government accountability," says Mark Becktel, Transportation Services Manager. "The capacity of Salem's streets and bridges is being stretched to the max and we need citizens feedback on our plan."
Organizations, associations, or clubs who would like to receive a Keep Salem Moving presentation should contact Mike Gotterba at 503-588-6211 or email mgotterba@cityofsalem.net.
Another bridge across the Willamette River remains high on citizens' priority lists. Where will it be located? The Salem River Crossing project is working with the community to answer this question. This could be completed by spring 2009. For the latest information on this project, visit the project web site at salemrivercrossing.org.
Source: Press release from Salem Public Works
Keep Salem Moving Presentations in JanuarySalem-News.com