One-lane traffic both directions on Portland’s Park Avenue? Traffic is now backed up all day, not just during commute hours.

Adding to the problem, “No Turn On Red” signs posted on every corner in the area. Many are being disregarded, some lost in the clutter of three to four signs hanging from the same light pole. And none are illuminated. This will be more of a problem when it’s dark at 4:30 pm.

And when right turns are legally executed, traffic in the bike lane is difficult to see. The potential for accidents is exacerbated by bicyclists who don’t believe that traffic rules apply to them.

Entering and departing driveways on Park Avenue (there are 17) has become a dangerous adventure. The bike lane is in a blind spot, whether backing in or backing out, and with parked vehicles extending 6 feet into the street, it’s become a dangerous game just trying to merge into traffic.

Street cleaning is now a memory, as parked vehicles and road stanchions prevent cleaning vehicles from getting anywhere close to the curb.

This is not a “protected bike lane.” It is a dangerous bike lane for all vehicles, two and four-wheeled. Somebody is going to get hurt.

Michael Liff
Portland