North Portland Latino Outreach

Increasing traffic and safety issues on North Fessenden and other streets in St. Johns are of concern to all residents.  COC Associate, Ellen Wyoming, and Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) Project Manager Rich Newlands had an opportunity recently to speak with Spanish-speaking residents at their weekly parents’ group meeting at James John Elementary School.  Ellen, speaking in Spanish, introduced Phase 2 of the St. Johns Truck Strategy project and interpreted answers to questions from the PBOT planner.  During a lively discussion, the attendees mentioned many problems they face, particularly crossing with their children to their neighborhood schools, and suggested locations for appropriate cross-walks and other possible solutions.  This information will be reviewed as part of the community outreach process that will result in recommendations by the City for improvements in the area.  Ellen will be attending another Spanish-speaking parent’s meeting at Sitton Elementary with a member of PBOT staff in early March to continue the project discussion with the Latino community in St. Johns.