Feasibility Analysis of the West 11th Corridor. Is a multiway boulevard a possible alternative?

Abstract

I. Introduction The City of Eugene initiated the West 11th Corridor Study after the failure of the West Eugene Parkway (WEP), a planned 5.8 mile, four-lane arterial road connecting two state highways between Eugene and neighboring Springfield. The study, kicked off in November 2006, will develop several alternatives in response to increasing traffic congestion along West 11th Avenue and projected growth for the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area. Purpose This paper will look at the feasibility of expanding West 11th Avenue into a multiway boulevard along a section of the West 11th Corridor. Multiway boulevards are unique alternatives to major arterial roads, but they are rarely constructed in the United States due to perceived safety issues and strict building standards and codes that often prevent their construction. It is hoped that this study will provide a clear picture of the feasibility of a multiway boulevard including its impacts and social and environmental benefits.