ALBINA REZONING

City Hearing Examiner Public Hearing

January 22, 2003

At the hearing to rezone the Albina Fuel Co. to mixed-use development, testimony was presented by the City, Albina Fuel Co., Sullivan's Gulch Neighborhood Association, and many other residents and interested parties. The Hearing Examiner is expected to issue his recommendations around March 1. Key points from the hearing testimony:

  • City Staff report recommended approval of the zone change and City Comprehensive Plan, subject to certain conditions to upgrade 32nd Ave, prohibit left turns onto Broadway from 32nd Ave., and establish a TDM (Traffic Demand Management Plan).
  • The City's Traffic Analysis indicated that the projected increase in traffic was acceptable, and did not cause any intersection to "fail".
  • The Sullivan's Gulch Neighborhood Association presented its position: "We have agreed that the comprehensive plan and zoning changes proposed by Albina are appropriate on the condition that the negative traffic impact on Weidler between 28th and 32nd Avenues be reduced to such an extent that the livability of this area is preserved." (Read the entire position statement)

    Lynne Coward, Land Use Chair, stated that the neighborhood has worked with all parties over the past 2 years to shape this rezoning proposal to meet the goal of converting this industrial property into a high-quality, urban mixed-use development. Because of the convergence of issues and opportunities in that area, the SGNA has also applied for a grant to procure planning assistance to look at a broader area along and near Broadway. Support from PDOT(Portland Department of Transportation), Bureau of Planning, the prospective developer, Don Milliken, and Fred Meyer Stores has already been obtained.
  • Testimony was also given by a number of residents on Weidler, pointing out the likely negative impacts of additional traffic on their street.

The Hearing Examiner will accept additional written testimony until February 5, and plans to issue his recommendation by about March 1. The next step would then be a Hearing by City Council.