Between 2017 and 2018, Woodfords Corner was at the center of a major construction project to improve safety and access for all modes of transportation. The construction plan included the installation of pedestrian-scale streetlights, but these lights were eliminated in response to cost overruns. Many nearby residents were blindsided by the elimination of these lights, which had been included in plans shown at public meetings and were seen as key to the project.
Traffic flows along Forest Avenue at Woodfords Corner in Portland in January. Derek Davis/Staff Photographer
Because of the high volume of fast-moving cars through the corner at all hours, good lighting for pedestrians is essential. Otherwise, Woodfords Corner will just be seen as a place to pass through, not a place to stop, shop or contribute to a vibrant neighborhood.
All of the commercial centers on the peninsula in Portland have pedestrian-scale streetlights. Woodfords Corner needs them, too. These lights will improve safety for local residents and help the business community expand their hours into the evening, contributing to the goal of the 2017 Portland Comprehensive Plan to make Woodfords Corner a “complete neighborhood.”
Portland’s 2023 Capital Improvement Plan currently includes funding to install the first six lights. This is a wise investment of capital funds that will pay for itself in terms of increased activity in the corner. While this is far fewer than the original number of lights that were planned for and promised, it would be a great start to a multi-year commitment to finishing this transformational project.
Andrew J. Zarro, MPA
city councilor, District 4
and Teresa Valliere
Portland
Send questions/comments to the editors.
