NE 72nd Drive Greenway Enhancements

What's Happening Now

This project design is complete and a contractor has been hired. Construction is expected in late September or October 2026. 

Project Description

NE 72nd Drive between NE Tillamook and Sacramento Streets

• Add signs, pavement markings, and install concrete separators along the northern section of NE 72nd Drive, adding to those already constructed by the 70's Neighborhood Greenway.
• Mark a crosswalk to support the Rose City Recreational Trail Project. In partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation.

Intersection of NE 72nd Drive and Sacramento Street

• Add one concrete island between the north and southbound travel lanes, hatched pavement markings and updated striping and signs to clarify lane designations and improve safety for people accessing the multi-use path on NE 72nd Drive.
• NEW: Design was updated at this intersection to ensure access for larger vehicles and delivery trucks. Hatched striping will help designate lane spacing while allowing wider turning movements. A basic diagram is included further down on this page. 

View full size image of Project map with new concrete islands, crosswalk, and concrete seperators highlighted

View full size image of Updated designs will use hatched striping in place of one of the concrete islands.

Background

In 2024, the 70's Neighborhood Greenway project re-purposed the northbound lane of NE 72nd Drive between NE Sacramento and Tillamook streets converting it to a car-free path for people walking and biking. As part of that project, concrete separators were installed on the southern portion of NE 72nd Drive near NE Tillamook Street to reinforce that the northbound lane was closed to motor vehicle traffic. 

PBOT received feedback from community members walking and cycling on the multi-use path that additional concrete separators along the rest of 72nd Drive would make their experience feel more comfortable and safe. 

The planned pavement markings and signs for the intersection of NE 72nd Drive and Sacramento Street are intended to improve user experience and ensure travelers are aware the northbound lane is closed to vehicles.

Community outreach & engagement

Neighboring residents and businesses will receive letters with project details in the coming months. Any outreach materials will be posted here.

 NE 72nd Drive Postcard 305.1 KB - mailed to project area residents the week of April 20, 2026

NE 72nd Drive Greenway Enhancements Construction Notice (PDF 321.82 KB) - mailed to project area residents in late August, 2026

Funding

This project is funded by the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) through Strategic Program 30, which provides small- and medium-scale investments to improve biking, walking, and transit and provide community members with safe, convenient ways to get around while reducing greenhouse gases. 

Project budget: $200,000

View full size image of PBOT and PCEF attribution logo