The Farmington and River roads
intersection sees a lot of vehicle traffic. During commute times, travelers have to wait in long lines. An all-way stop is no longer the right traffic control for this intersection.
A traffic study was completed in early 2021 and the information was presented at an online open house. We found that a roundabout, off-center and southwest of the current intersection, is the best option.
All the intersection options impacted the Cruise In County Diner. We bought property in May 2021 to provide these much-needed improvements to the intersection of Farmington and River roads. The purchase benefited both Washington County travelers and the owners of the diner, who were ready to retire. The diner was demolished in 2022.
Concern was expressed throughout the development and design of this project about possible graves in the project area. The project team conducted a detailed survey and used Ground Penetrating Radar to locate possible historic graves, which were found on private property, outside the project area. The project design and utility relocation work avoids impacts to the location.
We have coordinated with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) as well as the Oregon Historic Cemeteries Program to develop a plan in the event any remains are discovered during construction. The plan includes immediately stopping work in the vicinity and creating a 100-foot buffer around the discovery. The area will be protected and secured. Notifications will be made to appropriate organizations including the SHPO, Oregon State Police, Commission on Indian Services, and the appropriate Tribes.
Appropriate survey reduces the possibility that any historic artifacts will be discovered. The plan is in place in the unlikely event that something is discovered.
The estimated $11.3 million project is funded through the Major Streets Transportation Improvement Program (MSTIP 3e) and Transportation Development Tax (TDT).