Dear supporters,

We hope you've been following the recent events regarding the pedestrian accident near Parkrose High School yesterday morning, as mentioned in this article: https://www.koin.com/news/portland/pedestrian-crash-near-parkrose-high-raises-concern-among-students-community/

The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) was quoted stating their commitment to making streets safe for everyone. However, their statements don't align with their previous decision to grant an exception for a 60-foot wide driveway for the proposed Prologis Distribution Center on 122nd Ave. One necessary approval that PBOT went out of its way to accommodate is the developer’s request for a code exception, allowing the developer to place a 60-foot-wide driveway (an additional 20 feet wider than what code allows for this type of zoning, keep in mind that most residential lots in Portland are only 50 feet wide) accessing 122nd Ave. without any discussion of crosswalks or proximity to schools. This exception being granted is an example of the PBOT's failure to take into account the safety of the people who actually live here. 

Clearly, the person who approved this exception did not prioritize our community's safety. This link will take you to the application and the decision made by PBOT on May 16th, 2022: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1BzW4atR55-KAO-VwGtp0hP2b5E8jCESd?usp=share_link

Following the tragic accident involving Sarah Pliner in front of Cleveland High School last Fall, a new Safe School Zone was established on SE Powell. When our school board inquired about the same possibility for Parkrose High, they were told that the school didn't qualify as not enough of the school is on 122nd Ave. Yet, our students use the athletic fields adjacent to 122nd Ave. for various sports and activities. Students regularly cross 122nd Ave. while waiting for the bus, heading to or from school, or getting lunch at nearby businesses. 

Please express your opposition to the Distribution Center and urge City leaders to find a better use for this site before the May 3rd meeting with Students and Community Members. Write to cctestimony@portlandoregon.gov.

Follow the Parkrose Argay Opportunity Coalition on Instagram and help spread the word: https://www.instagram.com/parkroseargay If you have a personal story to share, please email OldKmartOpportunity@gmail.com with your story and a photo to be featured.

Lastly, we ask you to keep the pedestrian and the driver involved in the recent accident in your thoughts. Our hearts go out to them and their families.

Thank you for your continued support in making our community safer and advocating for a better future for Parkrose Students and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Sincerely,

Breylan