Scott Hanson of the city's historic preservation staff discusses the history of the area before the arterial's construction. He uses photographs taken in 1924 for a survey of the city's housing stock.
Franklin Arterial's future looks better than its past
There's no shortage of ideas for improvement, but there is of means to accomplish them.
[September 4, 2009]

Residents offer views on Franklin Arterial plans
Some prefer mixed-use development, others want to see more open space, and finding the money is still an issue.
[September 3, 2009]

City eyes roundabout route
A committee seeking to improve Franklin Arterial traffic and pedestrian flow looks into the idea.
[May 4, 2009]

New look envisioned for arterial
Residents get together to consider changes to make Franklin Arterial a better fit for the city.
[April 30, 2009]

Rethinking an urban vision
Portland planners are happy with how Franklin Arterial moves cars, but want it to better fit into the neighborhood.
[April 26, 2009]
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
In the late 1960s, city officials decided that the best way to revitalize downtown Portland was to make it easier for drivers to get there. So officials demolished a swath of neighborhoods and built a divided highway from Back Cove to the waterfront, creating Franklin Arterial.

Today, planners are working to find ways to make the area more walkable and appealing, while maintaining the arterial's ability to move thousands of motorists through the corridor every day. MORE MULTIMEDIA Slideshow: Franklin Arterial totally re-shaped the urban landscape, as seen in this side-by-side comparison of photos taken in 2009 and 1924.
Video Animated simulations of three Franklin Arterial plans
Moving forward: Traffic planner Lucy Gibson talks about design considerations and options for Franklin Arterial.
Learn more about roundabouts and watch a short demonstration video.
What's the difference? Rotary vs. roundabout

Audio: John Menario, who was Portland's city manager during the time Franklin Arterial was built, discusses the reasons the city built the arterial and why he believes it played a crucial role in the redevelopment of downtown.Excerpt of an interview with Reporter Tom Bell
Aerial view looking northwest 1982 (towards Back Cove) and same view in 1966 (enlarge) Aerial view looking northwest (towards harbor) 1982 vs. 1966 (enlarge)


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