In the bustling city of Portland, a dangerous intersection has sparked a much-needed conversation about pedestrian safety. This particular spot, where Franklin Street meets Marginal Way, has become a symbol of the urgent need for change. As an observer, I can't help but feel a sense of frustration and concern as I witness the daily struggles of pedestrians navigating this treacherous crossing.
The Intersection of Fear
Imagine standing at this intersection, waiting for the walk signal. The minutes tick by, and the sound of rushing cars drowns out your thoughts. This is Portland's purgatory, as one local put it. The wait is agonizing, and the risk of crossing against the light is all too real. Many pedestrians, out of impatience or necessity, take their chances, dashing across when they see an opening. It's a game of chance, and unfortunately, some don't make it.
The consequences of this dangerous game were tragically demonstrated last November when 75-year-old Diane Bell was killed while running with a group on the Bayside trail. The driver, speeding up to make a yellow light, hit Bell in the crosswalk, throwing her several feet into the air. Her death, and the deaths of four other pedestrians in Portland last year, have added fuel to the fire of this urgent debate.
A City in Crisis
Portland is facing a crisis of pedestrian safety, with a higher rate of per capita deaths than even Boston and New York City. The number of pedestrians injured or killed in 2025 was a five-year high, a stark reminder of the urgency of the situation. While the city has adopted a Vision Zero resolution, committing to eliminating pedestrian deaths, the question remains: is it enough?
Assistant City Manager Greg Jordan acknowledges the alarming trends and the need for meaningful improvements. The city is pursuing a complete redesign of Franklin Arterial, but this process takes time. In the meantime, temporary fixes are being proposed, such as installing flex posts and bollards to calm traffic. The challenge, as Jordan puts it, is attacking the issue from all angles, and that requires funding and attention.
Design Failures and Blaming the Victim
The advisory committee, chaired by Myles Smith, has identified design failures at the Franklin and Marginal Way intersection as a major contributor to the problem. The series of traffic lights in close proximity encourages higher speeds, and the slip lanes and curved corners allow for dangerous right turns on red. Smith believes these 'design failures' are prevalent across multiple high-crash areas in the city, creating an environment where pedestrians are at risk.
Additionally, the committee has taken issue with police reports that often place blame on pedestrians. In the case of Diane Bell, the initial report stated she 'crossed against the signal,' despite witnesses saying she did everything right. This victim-blaming culture is a concern, as it shifts the focus away from the systemic issues and design failures that contribute to these tragic accidents.
A Call for Action
The bicycle and pedestrian advisory committee has urged officials to pursue several changes this year. They want to see a crash response protocol implemented, with low-cost safety fixes and permanent solutions for unsafe street designs. They also recommend a '20 is plenty' campaign to lower speed limits and the introduction of red light cameras as an enforcement tool. These measures, while ambitious, are necessary to create a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists.
As an observer, I can't help but feel a sense of urgency. The stories of Diane Bell and Cynthia Karst, killed at this intersection, are a stark reminder of the human cost of these design failures and the need for immediate action. The city of Portland has a responsibility to its residents to create a safe and accessible transportation system. It's time to prioritize the lives of pedestrians and cyclists over the efficient movement of cars.
Conclusion
The dangerous intersection in Portland serves as a stark reminder of the work that needs to be done to prioritize pedestrian safety. While the city has taken steps towards change, the journey towards a safer city is far from over. It's a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach, but with dedication and a willingness to challenge the status quo, Portland can become a leader in creating a transportation system that serves all its residents.
