Main Street in Oakridge is set to receive significant improvements aimed at enhancing safety for all road users. City officials announced that Oakridge has been awarded a $15.6 million grant through the Federal Highway Administration’s Safe Streets and Roads for All implementation program.
The initiative is designed to make Main Street safer for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Planned enhancements include traffic calming measures, upgraded signalization at intersections, wider sidewalks for pedestrians, and newly designated bike lanes.
Local business owners have expressed strong support for the project. Alex Carter, owner of Wheelhouse Bicycles, emphasized the positive impact on the cycling community.
“This is going to be a tremendous benefit for cyclists,” Carter said. “It’ll give people better opportunities to navigate the city and make it safer for group rides, many of which begin at our shop.”
Carter added that separating bike lanes from regular traffic will improve safety and encourage more people to commute by bike. “Having a dedicated space for bike commuters and minimizing interactions with vehicle traffic is a big win for Oakridge,” Carter said.
The upgrades are also expected to improve conditions for pedestrians. Jordan Lee, who owns Lee’s Fine Apparel, highlighted the project’s potential to boost foot traffic along Main Street.
“It’s going to be much more pedestrian friendly,” Lee said. “We’ll see more people walking from shop to shop and restaurant to restaurant, making it easier and safer for everyone.”
Lee added that the improvements will enhance the overall shopping experience and add value to the area. “Once everything is complete, I think it will make Main Street an even more attractive destination for customers,” Lee said.
According to city officials, construction is expected to be completed by spring 2028.
