Fix Rt. 2

8/13/2010

The congested, accident-prone eyesore that is State Rt. 2 in Oregon has needed a makeover for years. Finally, public and private interests are talking about how to improve the look, ride, and safety of the community's primary transportation route.

Better landscaping would go a long way toward changing first impressions of Oregon's commercial hub along State Rt. 2. Aesthetically, what greets drivers now is a depressing mixture of overgrown weeds, twisted vines, broken bricks, and barren concrete.

Officials from Oregon and the Ohio Department of Transportation and local business representatives are considering proposals that include installing a huge, granite welcoming sign at the I-280 exit and obtaining a state grant to pay for landscaping materials.

The Transportation Department has signaled its willingness to help if the city submits a detailed application for improvements to and around Oregon's chief commercial channel. Besides cleaning up the exits and entrances on Rt. 2, local leaders are looking at how to make the roadway safer.

A study that is under way could help secure another grant to fix problems. Access management on Navarre Avenue, where left turns have been troublesome, is of concern. A boulevard that would allow access through a series of U-turns is a possible traffic solution.

If talk turns to action and renovation, State Rt. 2 not only could be easier to navigate, but also could pay healthy dividends to the Oregon businesses adjacent to it. A more-inviting road with fewer accidents could draw more visitors and dollars to the region.