The City of Corvallis and Oregon State University are collaboratively advancing the Monroe Avenue Corridor Study, focusing on enhancing transportation and connectivity along Monroe Avenue.
The stretch under consideration spans between 14th Street and 26th Street, aiming to accommodate various travel modes and improve the link between the community, the university and adjacent areas.
Assistant Public Works Director Greg Gescher and OSU’s Land Use Planning Manager Bob Richardson provide insights into the coming project.
“Monroe Avenue is vital in connecting the community with the university and local businesses,” Gescher wrote in an email.
While the study’s recommendations currently lack dedicated funding, the approach is to implement less expensive treatments quickly and save costlier improvements for a phased introduction, aligned with redevelopment opportunities or potential external funding.
According to Richardson, OSU’s Sustainable Transportation Strategy is one of 15 key actions which seeks to reduce drive-alone trips to the campus.
“This study will inform improvements along the Monroe Avenue frontage of the forthcoming Jen-Hsun and Lori Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex and the adjacent mobility hub,” Richardson said.
In his email, Richardson clarifies the term “mobility hub.” According to an explanation referenced by Richardson, “a mobility hub is a centralized location or facility that integrates various transportation services and modes to enhance connectivity and accessibility within a community.”
In December, the community engaged through an online mapping tool and survey, providing valuable feedback. Gescher shared that most visitors to Monroe Avenue are frequent, with a substantial number traveling to or from OSU several times a week. The survey revealed a preference for enhanced pedestrian crossings, better bike and car separation, improved lighting and more outdoor dining space.
According to Gescher, there is complexity in catering to diverse transportation needs within a confined space. The upcoming open house, tentatively scheduled for March, will showcase initial improvement concepts, further incorporating public opinion.
The exact day hasn’t yet been confirmed.
Monroe Avenue features a mix of businesses, faith-based houses and university facilities.
“The university is developing plans for the construction of significant projects along Monroe Ave, expected to align with the study’s recommendations,” Richardson said.
