February 9, 2003

NEWS & EVENTS

 

Sullivan's Gulch Sign Toppers for street signs, and a major art/sign "Monument" are in the works for the neighborhood.

Plans are almost complete for the sign toppers. The Monument Signage
Committee is surveying all street intersections to determine exactly
where to place each sign, and should be sent to the city within the next two weeks. City is prepared to install them after the survey is completed.

A related project to create a major monument at the neighborhood entrance at Weidler and 16th street is also progressing. The purpose of the this art/sign monument is to provide a sense of identity upon entering our neighborhood on Weidler St. The location of this monument, the former site of Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor is made possible by the proposed redevelopment of this block by Aiyana Group and through their generous support.

Please read Eric Hess's full report on this project on our web site.

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Albina Rezoning Hearing: A Report

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)

Check our web site for the full report on the project and hearing.

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Changes at Irvington Market

We bid a fond farewell to Pete Peterson (Porcinni Produce) and his wonderful produce and grocery section at Irvington Market. Pete has consolidated his operations at the City Market, 735 NW 21st. And in the flower section, Broadway Floral (1638 NE Broadway) has opened up a shop.

Newman's (fish and meat) and the Cheshire Cat (deli, wines, cheeses) are still offering up their specialties at the market.

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Farrell's Ice Cream Store to be Demolished

Work will begin shortly to take down the vacant Farrell's Ice Cream store, in anticipation of the multi-use development that will be built on that site. (Check Web Site for details on this mixed-use project)

The plants that surround the building are available to all Sullivan's Gulch neighbors for the taking, but you need to act fast before the demolishin begins.