Friday, February 12, 2021
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Representative McLain talks transportation with WEA committee |
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The WEA Transportation Committee met with State Representative Susan McLain this week, who shared her insight about the Interstate Bridge Replacement program.
McLain co-chairs the Joint Interstate Bridge Committee, and she co-chairs the Legislature's Joint Transportation Committee.
The Representative said the Interstate Bridge Replacement program is in the early stages of listening and learning.
She said it's important to have an open mind during these discussions; to consider trips through the area, both short and long; to look at similar projects throughout the U.S.; to see the needs for both states and the west coast corridor overall; and to consider those community members who have historically been displaced by the roadway in the past.
McLain also said all modes will be considered - auto, freight, bike, pedestrian, bus rapid transit, and light rail.
She also took questions from the committee regarding tolling.
McLain encouraged members to participate in the process and to make sure their voices are heard sooner rather than later.
To learn more, visit the Interstate Bridge Replacement program's website.
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Local employment numbers finished the year in a 2020 mode |
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Like most things in 2020, the latest local employment numbers took a negative direction.
According to Workforce Analyst Brandon Schrader, Washington County lost 2,700 jobs in December, and the unemployment rate of 5.4% was more than double what it was at the same time in 2019.
Clackamas County was in a similar situation.
Workforce Analyst Lynn Wallis reported Clackamas County lost 1,900 jobs in December and had an unemployment rate of 6.1%.
The Oregon Office of Economic Analysis released its monthly data report yesterday, showing where Oregon's economy is at in terms of the pandemic.
State economists are echoing the same message they have been saying since about April, "First and foremost the current crisis is directly related to the pandemic. A fully healthy economy is unlikely unless businesses and households are confident in their safety. That will not happen until the pandemic is managed and brought under control."
University of Oregon Economist Tim Duy said in his latest report, " I anticipate growth will accelerate as the winter surge ebbs and the pace of vaccinations increases but the next few months will still be challenging. With sufficient control of the pandemic, the economy can experience a strong rebound later this year."
It will be interesting to see if the indicators change with some of the counties changing to a lesser risk category today and businesses in the Portland metro area are allowed to host more indoor activities.
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WEA welcomes Councilor Tivnon to its Board of Directors |
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Allison Tivnon from the Beaverton City Council has joined the WEA Board of Directors.
She is one of six public representatives on the Board - the WEA Board has about 30 directors, mostly from the private sector.
Tivnon was elected to the Beaverton City Councilor in 2020.
She has 15 years of experience in marketing, business development, and civic and philanthropic development.
Her professional world has revolved around city planning, partnering with cities, counties, regional governments, transportation departments, and others on behalf of urban planners, transportation engineers, economists, and policy analysts.
Most recently she was a partner and the director of marketing for ECONorthwest.
Councilor Tivnon is a graduate of California State University at Bakersfield and Portland State University.
To learn more about her and other members of WEA's Board of Directors, click here.
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If you have to travel this weekend, TripCheck is a good resource for road conditions. It includes cameras around the region. Washington County also has a road website with up-to-date information. Authorities are asking you stay home though if you can. Enjoy your neighborhood winter wonderland.
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The cities of Cornelius and Forest Grove will be hosting a virtual "State of the City" address on Monday, February 22 at 12pm. For more information, email Juanita Lint.
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Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty will be giving her first virtual "State of the City" address on Thursday, March 4 at 10 a.m. See Beaverton's Facebook page for more information.
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Ride Connection started some new expanded services in Washington County this week. The expanded services are funded in part from the 2017 State Legislature's transportation package. Click here to take a look.
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Washington County is hosting a virtual open house for its Complete Streets Design. Take a look and provide your input into the process.
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Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District has an opening or opportunity to serve on its Budget Committee. For more information, click here. Applications are due February 26.
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Fifty years ago Providence St. Vincent medical center's operations were moved over the hill to its current location from NW Portland. It took some foresight, as there was not much development or population on the Westside at the time. Take a look at the video below to see its story and to hear from former WEA Board members Dave Underriner and Nancy Roberts.
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Mon. 2/15 President's Day - WEA laptops will be closed - have a safe holiday weekend!
Wed. 2/17 at 12:00 p.m. - The Land Use & Housing Committee will meet virtually with the City of Tigard's Lloyd Purdy and Susan Shanks about the Washington Square Regional Center. All members are welcome. For more information, contact KC Reinhart.
Fri. 2/19 at 12:00 p.m. the Golf/Fundraising Committee will meet virtually. This committee is always looking for creative energy. If this sparks your interest to join, please contact Teresa Dunham.
Wed. 2/24 at 7:30 a.m. - The WEA Board of Directors will meet virtually.
Wed. 3/10 at 7:30 a.m. - The Transportation Committee will meet virtually. All members are welcome.
Th. 3/11 at 7:30 a.m. - The Government Relations Committee will meet virtually. All members are welcome.
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