To Whom It May Concern:

Polk County, Oregon is a small rural county that lies between the rapidly growing Willamette Valley and the Oregon Coast. Highway 22 West is the critical link that supports Polk County and connects the larger communities of Dallas, Salem, Monmouth and Independence. Virtually every state highway within the county flows into this road or intersects it. Until recent years, the highway has adequately met the needs of the County.

However, Polk County began experiencing a substantial increase in traffic volume several years ago. Statistics show that from 1990 - 2000, the county population has grown at a rate of 26% (population rates were calculated from the US Census statistics), while the traffic rate has grown at an unprecedented 46% (based upon Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) traffic counts). A rapid expansion in tourist attractions at the Oregon Coast and Native American casinos has generated a tremendous influx of high-speed traffic via Highway 22 West. Of course, the increase in traffic created a corresponding increase in the number of traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities. It is obvious that the increase in accidents is directly due to the increase in traffic on this highway. In turn, the dangerous increase in traffic is a direct result of the tourist attractions and destination sites, not as a result of a population increase.

Polk County and ODOT became aware of the dangerous situation and declared the road a "Safety Corridor" in 1993. This is a term which designates an especially unsafe road that needs attention. ODOT, in partnership with Polk County, has corrected many of the dangers on Highway 22 West through physical improvements and support programs. Despite these ambitious efforts, the problem areas between Dallas and Salem continue to worsen. In this particular section of the highway, local traffic, commuters, school buses, and farm equipment are forced to mix with high-speed traffic traveling to destination tourist sites. This situation creates a deadly combination often resulting in accidents, injuries, and the tragic loss of human life.

This stretch of Highway 22 West:

		Connects most of the population centers within the County
		Intersects with two regional highways (99 West and 51)
		Intersects with two primary county roads (Greenwood and College)
		Is accessed by numerous business entryways

The following sections will:

· Identify Problem Locations;
· Provide an Overview of the Proposed Solution -- Project 22;
· Provide Historical Review of the Area;
· Examine the Solution in detail;
· Provide a List of Contacts;
· Include Letters of Support;
· Provide Sample Letters of Support which can be downloaded, so YOU can help.

Your consideration and assistance with Project 22 is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

POLK COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

PHILLIP J. WALKER Chair

TOM RITCHEY Commissioner

RON DODGE Commissioner

 

---

Go To | Project 22 Home | County Home Page | Webmaster |