New Multnomah County initiative will help Sellwood businesses
The worker stepped off the ladder, pushed back his hard hat, and surveyed his handiwork. The new Tenino Street Exit sign was in place ahead of schedule… just the first of many such signs recognizing Sellwood businesses coming to Tacoma Street!
Usual Multnomah County spokesman Mike Pullen was unavailable, but temporary spokesman Norm De Guerre was glad to tell us about the project. “The plan is for a whole series of signs along Tacoma Street between the Sellwood Bridge and McLoughlin Boulevard. There’ll be one at each cross street, marking each street and giving directions to local businesses.”
A worker puts the finishing touches on the new Tenino Street Exit sign.
This is just the latest effort of Multnomah County to blunt the economic impact of the Sellwood Bridge project on the Sellwood-Westmoreland area. “Although we’re well past the 50% completion point, there’s still just over a year left” said Norm. “This project will help the mostly small, independently-owned businesses throughout Sellwood that have been hurt so bad these last couple years by the construction.”
Tom Dwyer, owner of the Tom Dwyer Automotive Services mentioned on the sign, was obviously pleased with this new outreach. “This is a great program, and we know we’ll be only the first of the many businesses to benefit. We have new clients all the time who have lived in the neighborhood for years yet never knew we were here! We expect this to be a welcome boost for our business!”
This sign at the East End of the Sellwood Bridge is the first of many signs planned along Tacoma Avenue
Asked what the world should know about the Bridge construction, Dwyer was quick to answer… “It’s sad that people think the construction is a hassle. Sure, there are some slowdowns, but the County has been fantastic about keeping traffic moving. I just want everyone to know that the Bridge is safe, open, and flowing smoothly!”
If you’re waiting for the construction to be finished before you visit Sellwood, DON’T! Spend the day eating, shopping, or relaxing in one of our many parks. And if you’re in the mood to try the new Tenino Street exit, maybe you can even drop your car off with Tom!
(and, if you’re interested, more details are available by clicking here)
