A project advisory committee has been formed to provide input on two proposed alignment alternatives for improvements to Saltzman Road, between Bayonne Lane and Laidlaw Road.

The Saltzman Road Project Advisory Committee introductory meeting was Aug. 26. In subsequent meetings, members will learn about and discuss the pros and cons of the proposed alignments. In November, the committee will provide a recommendation to Land Use & Transportation (LUT) staff. The Washington County Board of Commissioners is expected to act on that recommendation in early 2021.

Saltzman Road has two narrow lanes without adequate bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Improvements are needed for safety, and will include road widening, bike lanes, sidewalks, street lighting, drainage, curbs and gutters.

The community, particularly those who live along Saltzman and/or travel it frequently, have been advocating for these improvements. In 2015-2016, Community Participation Organizations 1 and 7 and the Bethany Neighborhood Coalition requested a new Saltzman Road alignment, west of the existing road. 

Both alignments begin at Bayonne Lane and end at Laidlaw Road. (See map)

  • Eastern alignment (existing road): Connects to Laidlaw at NW Bannister Drive. Challenges include impacts to existing homes, a culvert over Ward Creek, tight curves and steep slopes.

  • Western alignment: Connects to Laidlaw at 130th Avenue. Challenges include potential wetland and floodplain issues, higher construction cost and proximity of the connections at 130th and Laidlaw and the existing Saltzman Road at Laidlaw.

At future meetings, engineers from Murraysmith, the County’s design consultant, will present analyses of both alternatives including safety, property impacts, environmental considerations, traffic and construction costs. Committee members and the LUT design team will discuss the findings, ask questions and share their perspectives. The meetings include time for public comments.

Both the eastern and western alignment alternatives are included in the County’s Transportation System Plan. In 2016, the Board of Commissioners adopted the Major Streets Transportation Improvement Program (MSTIP) Phase 3e which allocates $5.3 million for Saltzman Road improvements and proposes an additional $1.2 million from the Bonny Slope West funding plan for a total of $6.5 million. Learn more about the project and the committee.