City seeks input on East Portal

Two events scheduled for next week at City Hall on Wednesday and Thursday, November 16-17, will provide the opportunity for public input on decisions that will have long-lasting impacts on the Sisters community.

The Sisters Planning Commission is holding a public hearing on Thursday, November 17, to consider Development Code text amendments that will alter density and height regulations, among other changes (see related story, below).

The City is holding an in-person open house in the council chambers on Wednesday, November 16, from 4 to 7 p.m., for the public to provide feedback on draft-concept layouts for the multi-modal mobility hub slated for the East Portal property. A mobility hub is a place where multiple travel options come together to increase transportation network connectivity and individual mobility.

Participants will be able to see the three concept layouts from Kittleson & Associates, converse with City staff and the project team, and provide input that will help shape development of the site. For residents who want to have input on how Sisters develops, this is a prime opportunity to have your voice heard.

The purpose of the concept plan is to provide a clear vision for how the site could be modified to operate as a transportation hub for the community. The concept plan will serve as the basis of forthcoming design and construction efforts as the site is developed in the future.

The concept development process to date has included engagement from local and regional providers, including participation from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), transit providers, community safety officials, and various representatives from City of Sisters committees and advisory boards.

According to the City, all concepts developed to date strive to balance future site uses and new amenities that could be provided onsite with features that exist today. All concepts retain the existing restrooms onsite, and the community labyrinth.

The City purchased the East Portal property from the U.S. Forest Service, utilizing a Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) grant from ODOT. The site is located between Highway 20 and Highway 242 at the entrance to Sisters. From a regional perspective, the site is critical to travel within, to, and through the Sisters Community. Cascades East Transit and Pacific Crest provide regional transit that could begin and end at the hub, with parking for riders’ cars and bikes onsite.

Participants at the open house will be able to view the three concept layouts, including examples of bicycle facilities, spaces for motor vehicle and RV parking, and electric vehicle charging, plus transit shelters for bus riders.

The key themes and outcomes that guided the design of the three concepts said the site should:

• Provide adequate space to expected transit service
• Incorporate planned walking and biking infrastructure
• Provide efficient motor vehicle access
• Provide efficient motor vehicle parking
• Provide a variety of bicycle parking options
• Promote safety and security
• Utilize existing onsite features
• Provide waiting areas. Following the public open house, a preferred concept will be developed based on input.