I-205 Multi Use Path Opens to Clackamas Town Center

Left to Right, Clackamas County Chairwoman Lynn Peterson, ODOT Region 1 Manager Jason Tell, and then BTA Executive Director Scott Bricker cut ribbon to open I-205 Multi Use Path.

Pelting rains greeted us on our way to the Foster Road/Lents Town Center Station of the new MAX Green Line for the opening ceremonies of the I205 Multi Use Path. Arriving at the station platform we found Tri-Met provided a large awning to keep those gathered for the event dry before the ceremonies, The Bike Gallery folks provided technical assistance for the ride, and Nadine Jones, The Outer Rim Bike Shop, provided moral support (and some cookies) for the riders.

The I-205 Multi Use Path had been closed for construction of the Green Line for over two years and everyone was anxious for the opening of the path south of Woodstock. Federal stimulus funding was available for lighting improvements on this portion of the path, and the lighting improvements delayed the opening of that portion until the work was completed. November 7th, 2009 marked the formal opening of the path.

After all the kudos, it was time for the ride. Dusk had settled in, the skies cleared, and the newly installed lights were illuminated for the ride to Clackamas Town Center. Ted Miller, ODOT's Region One Maintenance Manager, led the group of about 25 cyclists south on the path towards the Town Center. We encountered some new and improved portions of the path, such as the intersection with the Springwater Trail, and portions of the path which flowed directly through the Green Line stations. Older sections of the route, such as the crossing at Johnson Creek, required a detour to 92nd Avenue to cross, remained the same, much to our dismay. The ride went quickly and we arrived at the structured Park and Ride at Clackamas Town Center with a new look at the I-205 Multi Use Path, and several suggestions to make it even better.

The ride back took on a new look as people started peeling off to make their connections home, illustrating the point that the path was indeed an important piece of the transportation puzzle of Outer East Portland. ODOT's commitment to improving the path is evident with the study of the path by Alta Planning, results should be ready in December.

So if you haven't already, take time to ride the I-205 Multi Use Path soon. The path is completely lighted at night and a great North/South connection to where you need to go.

By Jim Chasse