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Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)

View this project in the Capital Improvement Program document here.
 
Schedule: TBD
 
For more information, contact: 

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle?

Anyone under 16 years of age must wear a helmet unless it violates a religious belief. ORS 814.485

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are bicycle riders required to have lights?

Yes. After dark and during limited visibility conditions, a cyclist must have a white light in front and a red light or red reflector in the rear. This also applies when riding on sidewalks. ORS 815.280

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are racial restrictions enforceable?

No.

Racial restrictive covenants have been unenforceable since 1948 based on the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and illegal since 1968. The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits the enforcement of racial restrictions.

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
But we get so much rain in the Willamette Valley... water conservation isn't really that important, here is it?

In the summer, water usage increases most with single family residential customers. A single family residential customer is equal to an average of 2.38 people per household. As a comparison, a single family residential customer uses approximately 234 gallons per day during the winter months. During the summer, a single family residential customer uses approximately 341 gallons per day. That is an increase of 46%! 

As you can image, this adds up to a lot of water use in the summer. In Corvallis, we have less rainfall during the summer months than Houston, Texas! Although, we have not experienced a substantial drought condition in recent years, it could very well happen if customer demand for water during the hot, dry summer months exceeds the treatment plants' capacity. In such a situation, customers may be asked to voluntarily reduce their water use on a temporary basis until drought conditions subside. 

Category: Water Conservation
Can I change my initial court date?

It is possible to change your initial court date. You must contact the court office to make arrangements.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I change my trial date?

To get a trial date changed you must write a letter to the Judge requesting a continuance and the reasons why. Your letter must be received in the Court office within 10 days of receiving your trial notice. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I get a copy of my case?

Yes. You need to go to or call the City Attorney's Office at 456 SW Monroe Avenue, Suite 101, Corvallis, Oregon 97333 and request a copy of the police report. This is known as "Discovery" and there is a $20.00 fee. Please call the City Attorney's Office at (541) 766-6906 for more information.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Can I have a court appointed attorney?

You may request a court appointed attorney at your arraignment date. Keep in mind, however, that only misdemeanor charges qualify. You will be required to fill out an affidavit that states your financial status. The court will then decide if you qualify. 

Category: Municipal Court
Can I speak to the Judge in private?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can I talk to the Judge in person or by telephone?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can the Clerk at the counter take my pleas or reduce my fine?

The Municipal Court does offer a violations Bureau in traffic cases for non-moving violations. You must contact the court to see if your citation would qualify to be handled by the clerk.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Compensation - How are City employees contributing to the City’s financial situation?

Exempt employees (primarily managers and supervisors) have foregone cost of living increases from FY 08-09 through FY 14-15, and together with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), have moved to a single lower cost high deductible health care plan effective January 2015. The Corvallis Regional Communications Center Association (CRCCA) and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) both followed suit in January 2016. Via the bargaining process, members of the Corvallis Police Officers Association (CPOA) agreed to change from a 10-hour work shift to a more efficient 12-hour work shift. The 12-hour work schedule distributes existing staffing numbers across four shifts instead of six shifts under the 10-hour schedule. This provides more officers per each work shift, which enhances officer safety and prevents significant operational overtime expenditures. Additionally, CPOA has gone to the least expensive, composite rate health plan option available to that unit through the Teamsters Trust, which is considerably less costly than what is provided to other units, since they unfortunately cannot avail themselves of the same insurance option. Members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) agreed to forego their contractually negotiated cost of living adjustment for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011. This action saved the City an estimated $46,590 assuming the members would have gotten a 2% COLA. Some employees took voluntary leave without pay to help reduce the City’s costs. A number of currently vacant positions continue to be held open, with other employees taking on more work to cover the vacancies. Per the FY14-15 Adopted Budget, the City had eliminated 2.6 full time equivalent (FTE) in order to meet a sustainable budget, after several years of other staffing reductions. Additionally, per the FY 15-16 Adopted Budget, the City reorganized Public Works FTE to decrease total FTE by 1.25 and per the FY 16-17 Adopted Budget, the City eliminated a total of 6.75 FTE due to departmental reorganizations and budget reductions. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11 as known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %

 Bargaining Unit

 FY 16-17

 FY 15-16

FY14-15 

 FY13-14

 FY12-13

 FY11-12

 FY10-11
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -      -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How come City employees get cost-of-living-adjustments (COLA) raises in a bad economy?

Most City employees are members of a collective bargaining unit with an existing labor agreement in place. However, in recent years, some units have elected to forego a COLA in a particular year in order to help keep costs down. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11, as far as what is known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %:

Bargaining Unit  FY16-17  FY15-16 FY14-15 FY13-14  FY12-13  FY11-12  FY10-11 
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -  -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How do Corvallis salaries compare with other similar-sized cities?

Under the State of Oregon Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act, municipalities compare to similar sized cities during labor negotiations. In addition, the City Council has adopted a Compensation Policy for the City to set total compensation based on the mean of comparable sized cities and internal equity, that is how City employees compare to one another. Generally, the comparable cities the City of Corvallis uses include at least: Albany, Bend, Lake Oswego, Medford, Springfield, and Tigard. Generally Corvallis' total compensation is within 5% of the mean of these comparators. Some Corvallis positions are paid higher or lower than the 5% differential. In the case of public safety units, which are not allowed to strike, arbitration guides many labor decisions including wages, and these wages have generally risen faster than non-public safety. This can also impact management salaries where there is a need to maintain a pay differential between staff and management in order to avoid compression and attract relevant expertise with the increased responsibility.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How much would the City save if all the employee groups agreed to forgo their cost of living adjustments (COLA) this year?

his calculation can be complicated based on certain contractual increases where the COLA for a given bargaining unit may receive equity changes in job class for certain positions. One way to put the cost in perspective is to consider that a 1% reduction in projected FY 12-13 salaries (including an estimated impact for FICA and PERS contributions that are based on a % of pay) would result in savings of around $233,000 a year for all regular employees in the General Fund.
In the short term such salary savings would carry forward; in that future increases would be built on a lower base salary than would have been the case with the COLA. However, such savings would be temporary due to the way Oregon collective bargaining law works and would not continue to provide savings for the long term, structural funding problem. Under state law, represented employees are categorized as either eligible to strike or as "strike prohibited" which are public safety units -- in Corvallis police, fire, and dispatch. These employees have a system of binding arbitration that is based largely on comparable total compensation. So, if Corvallis does not increase its wages and benefits while other cities do, we fall behind. This can impact recruitment and retention, and also leaves the City vulnerable under state law to having an arbitrator impose increases on the City as a later date, bringing us back to where we would have been had we taken the cost-of-living adjustment. That is, while we would save money initially, foregoing an increase is not sustainable over the long term because the labor market would continue to increase.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What does the City pay on behalf of current employees (vs. retired employees) for medical/dental/vision/RX premiums as a % of both personnel service costs and total operating budget?

Currently just over 7% of the City’s total operating budget is spent on active employees’ medical/dental benefits and roughly 14% of total personnel service costs (not including retiree benefits) is made up of these benefit expenditures. Medical/dental coverage for retired employees who were hired prior to August 1992 (employees hired after this date are no longer eligible for city paid coverage) represents almost 2% of total personnel service costs. 

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What is the practical application of furloughs to non-public safety employees?

There are a lot of issues, which are more questions than answers, about furloughs. A furlough is a change in wage and hours which requires collective bargaining for represented employees. The method used to implement a furlough makes a big difference. The most common form of furlough in current practice is to close facilities for a day; other alternatives include shortening the work day (i.e., open offices at 10 AM instead of 8), closing facilities for a one week period (for example closing from Christmas to New Year's), or having employees take mandatory “floating” furlough days. The model chosen influences such questions as:
• If facilities would all be closed at one time, would furloughs apply to all City operations except Police/Fire front line responders or just to property tax funded services? There are operations not funded by property taxes that would require at least one employee to be on duty (i.e., Wastewater Treatment Plant). Library branches, funded through the Benton County Library Service District, would be a lot like the city’s non-property tax funded services, so it would have to be determined whether a City furlough would apply to these operations. If Parking Enforcement Officers were furloughed, there would be no enforcement of parking regulations. If the Utility Billing Office (funded by the utilities funds) is furloughed, there would be no meter reading or turn on/off services that day of the week. Exempt staff (mostly managers) would not be allowed to work on a furlough day or their exempt status for the week would be jeopardized and they could be eligible for overtime for any hours over 40 for that week which would not normally be the case. Part-time employees who have a regularly scheduled day off on a closed furlough day would have to have other time off or not contribute to savings.
• If the furlough was taken as a “floating day” and facilities were not closed, there could be undue burden in some locations to meet customer service coverage issues, especially when other staff members are on leave such as a sick day. There would also be an increased administrative burden to be sure all employees were taking their required furlough days. This is the model that was implemented for the AFSCME union members for the 2-days of furlough leave agreed upon for a one year contract in fiscal year 2011-12.

Regardless of the model, issues that arise include:
• Compensation when employees are called out on a furlough day to address a short-term emergency (i.e., a Battalion Chief to oversee a fire incident or for a Fire Prevention Officer to investigate; the on-call Public Works Supervisor called in for a broken water line; an IT systems administrator is called in for a network of public safety system outage). This issue is exacerbated for a longer-term emergency (i.e., snow/ice storm, flooding).
• Work on capital projects may have to be stopped on a furlough day because there will not be inspection services/project manager availability to answer questions, meet inspection requirements, etc. If so, this could increase costs for certain projects.
• Work on private construction projects may also be a concern if the Development Services inspectors are furloughed and unable to inspect as timely as in other situations. All these questions arise each time the City considers and/or works with union negotiations to implement furloughs and do serve to influence the amount of savings a furlough produces. There are several agencies which have implemented furloughs that do help provide models for the City to use, should with this suggestion become a viable longer term solution.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why did the City add staff when they knew there was a long term funding City services issue?

In FY 08-09 the City had an $8 million fund balance in the funds that receive property taxes and cautioned the community that harder times were coming. All staff additions are made after careful consideration by the Budget Commission and City Council, and staff additions may be made knowing there are future funding issues involved. But because the staff additions are deemed "critical" by elected and appointed officials the staff additions are authorized. City staffing has decreased overall in the last few years; however, the downward trend in FTE stopped in FY13-14 when net total staffing increased by 10.025 FTE (full time equivalents): 0.750 FTE increase due to reorganizations; 3.500 FTE added for enhancements; 4.375 FTE funded by the 2013 Operating Levy (although in total, the Levy will now fund 22.500 FTE, including previously authorized staffing for the Osborn Aquatic Center, Chintimini Senior Center and Library Monday hours, as well as 3.0 FTE Police Officers previously unfunded); 4.000 FTE added for the new Residential Parking District; and 2.600 FTE eliminated to meet a sustainable budget. However, this trend did not spill into FY 15-16 as the Residential Parking District positions did not come to fruition due to the unsuccessful outcome at the polls and overall authorized FTE decreased by a net 1.25 FTE due to reorganizations.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why doesn't the city do furloughs or work 32 hour weeks for non-emergency personnel?

The City has considered and continues to look at potential savings if non-emergency staff worked four 10-hour days and offices were closed one extra day each week. Furloughs have also been discussed and were implemented (2 days) by the AFSCME unit for FY 11-12, as a mechanism to help maintain their benefit levels for an additional year. Because furloughs are a reduction in work hours and therefore pay, implementing additional furloughs would require bargaining with the appropriate labor representatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Does the City add fluoride to the water?

Yes, we do. In 1952, the citizens of Corvallis voted to have fluoride added to City drinking water. Several years later, a group of residents wanted the City to stop adding fluoride, so a second vote was held in 1960. Citizens voted 2-to-1 to continue adding fluoride to the water. 

Fluoride, known for its cavity-fighting benefits, is of special interest to parents with young children. Studies have shown that it strengthens tooth enamel and inhibits acid production by decay-causing bacteria in dental plaque. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends a fluoride concentration of 0.7 to 1.2 ppm in drinking water. Our target fluoride level is 0.8 ppm. 

Category: Water Treatment
Expenditure - Why doesn’t the City lower its costs?

Over the past decade the City has taken numerous steps to lower costs. Examples are wide ranging and include implementing energy efficiency measures such as facility heating/cooling systems, changing lighting, and decreasing paper usage; increasing the share of medical/dental insurance employees pay and changing benefits; and entering into numerous partnerships with other governments and non-profits to jointly provide services. Even with these measures, the City’s costs continue to rise. Services supported by property taxes and other non-designated revenues are heavily invested in personnel – police officers, fire fighters, lifeguards, librarians, recreation program staff, and parks maintenance workers. Most of the staff positions for the City are paid according to collective bargaining agreements, and in some cases these agreements are subject to arbitration to ensure that Corvallis staff are paid at a comparable rate to similar sized cities.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Did balancing the budget for FY 11-12 resolve the problem?

It did not. $2.5 million in expenditure reductions, in FY 10-11, and another $1.8 million in reductions for FY 11-12 combined with a successful, voter approved 3-year operating levy in May 2011 improved the financial outlook for FY 12-13 but not enough. In staff’s future financial projections, revenues and expenditures remain unbalanced with expenditures exceeding revenues by several million dollars each year. The long-term structural imbalance still needs to be addressed. The efforts made during the previous budget planning periods have provided additional, but limited time to develop the community-wide process needed to discuss revenue alternatives as well as service reductions and how best to proceed to meet the community’s needs and priorities. In FY 12-13 Council bought off on a new Financial Planning model that looks at rebuilding reserves and enacting a more sustainable budget that balances recurring revenues and expenditures. In addition, during the FY14-15 budgeting cycle, the expenditure limit concept was implemented for each department, ensuring that revenues would equal expenditures within a five-year planning window.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought passage of Measures 66 and 67 would mean no cuts, so why is this happening?

Measures 66 and 67 increase income taxes paid to the state and increase funding for state funded programs. They have no direct impact on the City’s funding.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought that in FY 09-10 the City had plenty of money. What happened?

While the budgeting process based on past historically normed averages appeared promising, revenues in the property tax funds in FY 08-09 ended up being about $1 million lower than expected, and expenditures were almost exactly as expected. As a result, some of the “usual” annual savings were not realized. That, combined with fairly flat revenue projections for FY 09-10 and future fiscal years, and increasing expenses, leads to a structural problem where annual revenue is lower than the annual operating expenses. This situation continued to worsen in all recent year actuals through to and including FY 12-13 actuals.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Is there a way to get the 3% growth in revenue matched better to the 6% growth in expenditures?

There is no easy answer on this one. Growing property taxes beyond current projections is limited by Oregon State law through state-wide voter approved ballot initiatives (Measures 5, 47 and 50 for property taxes). Although new development would allow more significant increases in property tax revenue, the City would need to add nearly $200 million in new development to raise $1 million in revenue. Some new revenue sources are subject to state preemptions (i.e., local real estate transfer tax). Others are subject to difficulties associated with collections or administration (i.e., states that have a local sales tax often use state collections processes for local revenues; states that have local income taxes use the state income tax as a base and the state collects). Oregon has a long history of voter dislike of new taxes (i.e., Oregon’s many failed attempts to put in place a statewide sales tax).

In the last several years Corvallis has attempted to improve local revenues through adoption of a local telecommunications tax that was referred to the voters and failed, and through discussions of a business license fee, local meal tax, and local entertainment tax. All of these had strong local opposition and never moved forward. Added to the challenges associated with adopting a local, significant new tax would be the market difficulties Corvallis’ businesses might face if there was a local income or sales tax that did not apply in Philomath, Albany, etc. Basically, to expand the local revenue stream in any significant way for tax-based services will require some movement on the State’s part.

Some of the services which get discussed for possible cuts, most notably Parks & Recreation services, charge fees for most programs. Fees are set based on City Council financial cost recovery policies, market tolerance, including competitors and direct costs to deliver the program while balancing the mission of Public Recreation to be accessible to all community members. Fees are reviewed annually by the Parks, Natural Areas and Recreation Board and City Council. A simple analysis that assumes no change in participation (which, due to elasticity of demand, is unlikely to be true), but full cost recovery through fees at the Aquatic Center would increase charges 176%. Daily entry for one swim session is projected to increase from $4 to $11 – likely pricing most users out of the use of the pool. Parks & Recreation staff completes a fee comparison of local and state-wide aquatic centers as part of the annual fee review. Corvallis rates are generally at or above the median fees charged for almost all activities (child through senior) and for annual memberships. Review of fees of Parks and Recreation programs, including the Aquatic Center, occurs each spring through the Department's advisory board and City Council. Staff anticipates recommending some increase in fees each year, but not at a level that recovers all costs in order to remain competitive with other aquatic facilities and fulfill the mission of Public Recreation as outlined in its cost recovery model.
Like the revenue picture, the expenditure side of the equation is equally challenged by State laws. In particular, the State’s collective bargaining laws, that require comparisons with similar sized governments, in many cases means that labor negotiations are not completed solely within the discretion of the City Council. Arbitration requirements for Police, Fire, and 9-1-1 units do not necessarily allow the City Council to include “ability to pay” among the factors to be considered in labor negotiations as the primary factor. All of this means that as Corvallis’ comparators increase compensation, Corvallis must follow.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Please explain the "structural problems with how local government services are financed" in Oregon; what are these structural problems and what does this concept mean?

Cities have fairly specific limits on how they can raise revenues, with property taxes as the primary revenue source for many services. Although Corvallis has been assertive in pursuing alternative revenues (i.e., fees for participation in Parks & Recreation classes, implementation of the Library Service District) there are not a lot of alternatives that produce significant revenues. Also, often times services which are funded with property taxes and other non-dedicated revenues (franchise fees, state revenue sharing, transient room taxes) cannot actually be funded by charges for service since a specific user cannot be identified.

Furthermore, property taxes were limited in 1996/97's statewide elections on Measure 47/50. Property tax growth is generally limited to 3% per year, and most people who live in Corvallis would agree that their assessed value (AV) (and the taxes paid to the City) have gone up close to 3% each year. This assumption is generally true for residential and commercial property, where real market value (RMV) continues to increase -- usually faster than 3% annually -- so that most residential and commercial property now has an AV rating that is about 60% of the RMV. However, industrial property has an AV that is generally equal to a declining RMV. In Corvallis, industrial property has decreased in value about 10% annually since 1997. In some years this decrease has been offset by added value from new development. However, there has been no real new taxable development in the past several years, so property tax revenue to the City is pretty flat.

Other non-dedicated revenues are also holding flat or growing very slowly -- franchise fees have been flat or in some cases declined as people quit using land lines, conserve energy and water, etc. Transient room taxes declined for several years as people travelled less for business and/or for pleasure. While the parts of State Revenue Sharing tied to alcohol taxes have continued to grow in general, they are not growing enough to offset property tax losses.

All this adds up to a total revenue stream that is, at best, growing 2.5% to 3% annually.

At the same time, expenditure growth, which is predominantly in salaries and benefits, has been around five to six percent annually. Drivers of this growth include:
 

 

  • Wages/salaries - As with revenue limitations, many of the compensation issues are governed by Oregon law that sets requirements for labor negotiations and include comparing total compensation with like-sized cities. Furthermore, City Council compensation policy has been to attempt to be at or near the mean of compensation in like-sized Oregon cities (which includes total wages and benefits) as well as balancing external comparators with internal equity and avoiding salary compression between jobs.
  • Benefits -- in particular for medical and dental insurance, have been increasing in the range of 10% annually for many of the past years.
  • PERS payments -- Oregon Public Employee Retirement System (OPERS) employer rates are set for a biennial period to follow the State's budget. The City's employer rates have been increasing, especially for the older PERS Tier 1/2 employees. The Oregon Supreme Court's decision that a significant share of the legislative changes to the Tier 1/2 benefits were unconstitutional, combined with the PERS Board's reduction in the assumed rate of return from 8% to 7.75% for 2015 and 7.5% for 2016, and anemic earnings during the same period will lead to significant increases in PERS rates beginning July 1, 2017; however, a firm rate will be provided to the City in the late fall 2016. Additional rate increases of a similar level are expected beginning July 1, 2019 and July 1, 2021.
  • Binding arbitration drives wages for three of the City’s public-safety related bargaining units: CPOA, IAFF, and CRCCA, which in turn drive some of the internal comparators when Human Resources staff review positions. It also, to some extent, drives wages for exempt employees to be sure that a supervisor is compensated higher than the people supervised.

Combined, these factors drive the lion's share of the City's expenditures. Even some of the non-labor expenditures can see significant increases in costs (i.e., a proposed 20% increase in electricity, rising fuel costs, etc.) that all work together to cause expenditures to grow faster than revenues.
Over time, this structural issue – where revenue grows at two to three percent and expenditures grow at five to six percent – creates an untenable situation where the level of services provided cannot continue because they simply cost more than the City will raise. Other cities are experiencing very similar issues as outlined in the League of Oregon City's recent publication "State of the Cities."

Category: Financial Budget
General - Why is the City in budget trouble?

The City’s major revenue sources for certain functions, collectively called the property tax supported operations, have been growing more slowly than the costs to provide services.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Won’t this get better when the economy gets going again?

Probably not. Significant new taxable development would have to occur to raise property tax revenue. For example, to increase revenue by about $1 million annually, about $195 million in assessed value, or 652 homes each with an assessed value of around $300,000 would have to be added. Franchise Fees, the second highest non-designated revenue, have been decreasing as more people are conserving energy and water, and as people drop land line telephones. Transient room taxes are picking back up as the economy has shown some improvement. However, at around $1.5 million, even 10% growth will not bring in enough revenue to solve the City’s funding challenges. The state taxes alcohol and cigarettes and shares the revenue with local governments, but with the state’s financial challenges there is discussion at the legislature about ending the revenue sharing arrangement.

Category: Financial Budget
How can I report hazardous road conditions?

Residents may report problems or concerns to Public Works (541-766-6916) during regular business hours (M - F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.). To report hazardous situations after hours, weekends or holidays, please call 911.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
How do I report a concern or request a transportation-related improvement?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Staff will investigate and determine if there is an issue that needs to be addressed, and if so, how it compares with competing priorities, and whether there is staffing and budget capacity to address it. Examples of more easy-to-implement improvements include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. In contrast, if the request would result in the installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have un-budgeted funding readily available. These types of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How does citation fees in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

Corvallis’ citation fee is currently $10, and the new fee will be $15. The average citation fee for the comparator cities listed above averages $18.40. It averages over $23 when Davis, CA is included.

How often is our drinking water quality tested?

Drinking water is perishable. That is why the City of Corvallis takes steps to prevent water quality degradation from the time the water leaves the treatment plant until it gets to your tap. Laboratory professionals take routine samples from sampling stations strategically located in the distribution system. Routine sampling lets the staff confirm that our water is free from harmful bacteria and that there is sufficient chlorine for continued disinfection throughout the system. Automated, continuous water quality monitoring stations also take real-time samples from the distribution system throughout the entire day, every day, all year long. The data are continuously relayed to water system staff to assist them in optimizing water quality. See the annual Consumer Confidence Report for more information about our water quality and testing.

Category: Water Conservation
How will the City know if violations occur?

For implementation of this ordinance to be effective, the City needs your help! Citizens who witness a possible violation are encouraged to contact the Public Works Department by calling the 24-hr pollution prevention hotline at 541-766-6565.

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How will the implementation of this ordinance be paid for?

There will be no additional fees to rate payers as a direct result of this ordinance. The implementation of this ordinance, in addition to other programs aimed at reducing stormwater pollution, is funded through stormwater utilities fees, which you can see on your monthly utility bill. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How would I know about a problem with the water supply?

The City of Corvallis keeps close watch on your water supply. The law requires that you be informed if there is a problem with your water. Potential sources for this news are the radio, television, newspapers, the Benton County Environmental Health Department, the Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Program, or directly from the City of Corvallis.

Category: Water Conservation
I heard that lawns need one inch of water per week. Is this true? How much water should I put on my garden or landscape plants?

It's true! In the early spring, the soil has all the water it can hold. As the temperatures warm and the daylight hours lengthen, plants increase the amount of water they remove from the soil, and the amount of water that evaporates from the soil also increases. The amount of water that you apply to your lawn or landscape should equal the amount of water lost through evaporation and transpiration, often called evapotranspiration, or simply ET. Corvallis averages about 34 inches of rain and 34 inches of ET each year. Theoretically, nobody should ever have to water their lawn at all! Of course the rain comes when plants are not growing as rapidly, so many people irrigate. While one inch per week is a good average for the growing season, the amount of irrigation you apply should change from week to week. Your plants need more water in July than in May or September. Check out the Smart Irrigation and A Golden Landscape and Water Efficient Plant Guide for more information about irrigation, lawns, and conserving water.

Category: Water Conservation
I don't feel like driving in these conditions. What are my options?

Residents are encourages to use alternate modes, such as public transportation, if roads are icy. Visit www.corvallistransit.com for route and schedule information.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
I want to store some water for a possible emergency. Is bottled water ok to store?

Bottled water can be a good source of drinking water during an emergency, but it does not store well for long periods of time. Generally, bottled water does not contain a disinfectant, so microbes may grow in it over time. Because of this, bottled water should be treated as a perishable food product. Tap water does contain low levels of disinfectant and should be stored in capped plastic or glass containers. However, even properly stored tap water will not last indefinitely and should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. 

Category: Water Treatment
If I plead guilty, do I have to pay today?

Yes, if possible. If you need time to pay, be sure you ask the Judge when you enter your plea. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
If I plead not guilty, when will my trial be?

Trials are set for Mondays and Thursdays. Cases are set in advance about two months. If you plead not guilty today, your case will be set within approximately two months. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
In the event of bad weather, which City streets will be cleared first?

For snow and ice events, plowing and sanding in Corvallis are prioritized into four categories:

  • Priority 1 
    The following streets are considered to be the minimum network which must be kept open to provide a transportation system that connects to essential facilities, hospitals, fire stations, police stations, and emergency response units: Good Samaritan (Samaritan Drive and Emergency Room access); Fire Station access (5th Street, Circle Boulevard, 35th Street, Tunison Avenue); all Corvallis Transit System routes; select streets within the Central Business District connecting to essential facilities (2nd Street, Jackson, Tyler, Polk & Adams Avenues); and Corvallis Public Works access (Waterworks Drive). 
  • Priority 2 
    The following streets provide significant secondary access routes for emergency responders and community travel: arterials and collectors—Circle Boulevard, Research Way, Brooklane Drive, 49th Street, 45th Street, Birdsong, 26th Street, 29th Street, 30th Street, Grant Avenue, Washington Avenue, Alexander Avenue, Thompson Street, Harrison Boulevard, Van Buren Avenue, Garfield Avenue, Glenridge Drive, Ponderosa Avenue, and lower elevation areas of Witham Hill Drive and Elks Drive. 
  • Priority 3 
    All other local roads and facilities not listed as Priority 1 or 2. Streets and areas include residential streets that connect to arterial and collector streets listed in Priority 2 and City owned public parking lots. 
  • Priority 4 
    Streets and areas in this category include: Higher elevation areas (Skyline West, South Hills, Garryanna, Rolling Green, Estaview, Elmwood, Myrtlewood, Witham Hill, Elks Drive), the Corvallis Municipal Airport, and Cul-de-sacs.

Note: Except when requested by fire or police, plowing and sanding will not take place in the following areas: private streets, streets and cul-de-sacs exceeding 15% grade, alleys, and streets maintained by other agencies (ODOT, Benton County, and OSU).
Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Is bottled water safer than tap water?

Like tap water, the safety of bottled water depends both on the source water and the treatment process. Because bottled water is considered a food product, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Starting this year, the FDA will require bottled water manufacturers to test their source water and the finished product once a year; however, the quality of the finished product is not government monitored. Any bottled water that contains contaminants in excess of the allowable level is considered mislabeled unless it has a statement of substandard quality. If you use bottled water, consider it a food product and refrigerate it after opening. 

The use of bottled water or home treatment devices is a personal choice, which may be based on taste preferences. If however, you use these products for health reasons, we suggest that you thoroughly research the product you are selecting to assure that it offers the level of protection you are seeking. 

Category: Water Treatment
Is it safe?

Where necessary, the sealant will be covered with a fine layer of sand to limit tracking. However, caution is still advised. When the material is first applied, it is extremely hot (400°), wet, sticky, and very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings. For the safety of children and pets, please keep them off the streets on the day your street is sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Is it true that City of Corvallis property owners are taxed twice for the library district because they are both in the county and the city?

It is true that Corvallis residents pay for the Library in both City of Corvallis property taxes and in the Library Service District property taxes. This was known and discussed at length at the time the Library Service District was put into place by voters.

Category: Financial Budget
Is washing my personal car in my driveway or street considered a violation?

Discharge from individual residential car washing would not be a violation of this ordinance (Section 4.04.030). Although residential car washing is allowed, the City encourages citizens to prevent soap and car grime from entering streams by taking cars to a commercial car wash. In Corvallis, commercial car washes are connected to the City sanitary system, which can treat and remove pollutants. The City Stormwater Program also has a free SudSafe carwash kit for loan to keep suds, dirt, and oils out of the storm system,. This kit is available for stream-friendly car wash fundraisers! 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
I’ve heard about dioxin. What is it?

Dioxin is one of a group of chemicals called chlorinated organics. These compounds form when chlorine reacts with organic materials, like leaves, woody material, or decaying plants, in the water. Formation of these compounds depends on several factors including: the amount of organic material present, the concentration and form of chlorine, and the amount of time the chlorine is in contact with the organic material. Dioxin is a highly complex compound that generally only forms when large quantities of organic material and chlorine are in contact for long periods of time. The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level for dioxin in drinking water is 30 parts per quadrillion (ppq). We have been testing for the presence of dioxin in city water since 1991. To date, dioxin has not been detected in our finished drinking water. 

Category: Water Treatment
I’ve heard about THMs in the news lately. What are they?

When organic materials (such as the algae, leaves, or decaying plants found in untreated source water) react with the chlorine disinfectant during the treatment process, disinfection by-products can be created. Some of these by-products form a group of chemicals called trihalomethanes, or THMs. In excessive quantities, these by-products may have harmful health effects. The maximum contaminant level (MCL) of trihalomethanes allowed in drinking water is 100 parts per billion. 

As part of the 1997 Taylor Plant upgrade, enhanced treatment processes and four new filters were installed to help us meet federal drinking water regulations regarding THMs. These improvements have dramatically increased the plant’s efficiency for removing particles that may contain organic material from the source water. The treatment process has also been modified so that chlorine is only added to the water in the final step of treatment. These improvements will help ensure that the formation of disinfection by-products is kept to a minimum. 

Category: Water Treatment
Other Services - If the City is in so much financial trouble, why doesn’t it just not do . . .

There are a lot of suggestions made about ending programs. This FAQ is a gathering spot for some of the ideas suggested in public forums, editorials, or community gatherings. Some of the more common suggestions and the City’s response include:

  • Cut the Housing Assistance program – this program is not funded by any property taxes.
  • Cut the newsletter – the City is often cited as the best source of information for many in the community about what is going on in the City. The print version was cut in 2002, replaced as an on-line only publication, but it was quickly added back due to the complaints and the dramatic drop in survey respondents reporting they had enough information about the City. Nevertheless, when additional reductions were required in City services for the FY12-13 cycle, budget for the newsletter was cut again; as of July 1, 2012 the newsletter is available as an online-only publication.  Those interested in receiving the newsletter via e-mail may sign up for the e-notification system on the City’s website.
  • Cut maintenance workers or decrease maintenance of flower beds instead of Police or Firefighters – this can and is considered each budget cycle, as noted in previous discussions with the Budget Commission. However, only cuts in Parks and Recreation or certain General Fund Facilities Maintenance work would impact the property tax funds. Workers in utilities or street maintenance are not funded by property taxes.
  • The City’s web site fails to tell us how many are on the City’s payroll – the City’s entire FY16-17 Adopted Budget is on the web site. Page 35 shows how many positions the City has authorized for the year. All told, the City employs between 500 and 650 people annually when summertime seasonal and temporary employees are working.
  • Cut the most recent additions - more recently added programs are considered for elimination by all departments when cuts are needed. However, each Department Director, along with Advisory Boards and Commissions, need to prioritize the entire menu of services offered to determine what to put on a cut list; the newest programs may be the most cost/beneficial to citizens, and so are not always the most reasonable to eliminate in all circumstances. 
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Is there a list of enhancements and FTE changes over the last several years updated for the current status of same?

Answer: In Attachment 2 of the February 4, 2010 special Budget Commission meeting packet there is a list of enhancements added in the six years prior to that date and the status of each at that time. In Attachment 3 from that same packet is a table of FTE counts by Department dating back to 2000. This table summarizes the increases and decreases in staffing for each department over the last decade. The FY 16-17 Adopted Budget Document also shows trending information on City staffing beginning on page 35.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What can the City do to be more efficient?

City staff have taken a number of actions over the last decade to become more efficient in operations, and in how monies are expended and continuously look for improvements to City operations ongoing. Departments have been reorganized, new data management systems implemented to both improve staff efficiency and customer service, positions reduced or eliminated, public and private partnerships put in place/maintained, and bond issues have been advance refunded to take advantage of the market and achieve real dollar savings in debt service payments. Up until FY12-13 when the membership cost was eliminated from the Budget, Corvallis participated in the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA) – Center for Performance Measurement (CPM) process where a set of standard measures are tracked each year. Corvallis has usually shown high marks when compared to similar sized cities from Oregon and the nation. The City also has tracked historical trends on its own operations that it reports quarterly to demonstrate improving efficiencies or potential for same with a change in related resources. Some examples of such measures are included in the Quarterly Operating Reports published on the City's website.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What does the City really do with the donations I make on my utility bill?

It depends on the donation since there are several types.

  • For the Voluntary Low Income Assistance Donation Program donations, the City provides the monies to the United Way. When citizens approach the City for help with their bills the City refers the person to the United Way, which uses the donation monies to pay the person’s City utility bill. The United Way works with people who are in need to facilitate assistance for a wide variety of payments (City utility bills, electric bills, rent assistance, etc.) and can also work with people on getting them into counseling, job re-training programs or similar safety net programs.
  • For the Voluntary Parks Donation Programs donations, the monies are deposited in the Parks & Recreation Fund and are used to pay for a portion of the costs for the Youth Parks Corps program which is a part-time summer employment opportunity for youth between 14 and 16 years of age. Youth learn some basic employment skills working on a wide variety of projects in City parks.
  • For the Voluntary Library Donation Program the monies are deposited in the Library Fund and are used for the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Which City facilities (senior center, aquatic center, etc.) pay for themselves, and which don't? Why don't the ones that don't cover their expenses raise their fees?

None of the City’s facilities pay for themselves except the Water, Wastewater, and Storm Water systems and the Corvallis Municipal Airport. Fees for activities are reviewed annually. The review takes into account both the coverage and the elasticity of demand related to the fee. For all City facilities except those which currently cover all costs, if the City set fees high enough to cover all costs without the use of property taxes, many people who currently use the services and or facilities would not be able to afford it, which could lower total fee revenue and as fewer people use the service, would defeat the purpose of having these as public facilities.

Category: Financial Budget
Please provide information on the amount spent on law enforcement in Corvallis and the % of those expenditures as part of both the property tax funded expenditures as well as of total Citywide ops?
 
The best source of info for questions like these is the City's most recent Budget Document. Within the FY16-17 document, this particular information can be found on pages: pg. 22 (for total Police budget vs. total Citywide or for General Fund Police budget vs. total General Fund budget); or pg. 146 (Department summary for Police Dept - breaks down General Fund/9-1-1 Fund and Parking Fund portion of the total Police Budget). Although Parking Fund information was not specifically sought in the question above, the provision of same helps paint a more complete picture. Some data has been summarized in the table below:
 

 FY 16-17 Exp. Budget

 % General Fund Exp. Budget

 % Citywide Oper. Exp. Budget
Police - General Fund (1) 

 $12,549,750

28.8% 

12.9% 

Police - 911 Fund (2)

 2,388,730

 see footnote (2)

 2.4%

Police - Parking Fund (3) 

 291,420

 0%

 0.3%
Police - Vehicle/Equip Reserve Fund 

 88,920

  

 0.1%

Total Police Dept. Operating Bgt.

 15,318,820

 

 15.7%

Total Property Tax Funds - Oper. Exp. 

 43,554290

 100%

 44.6%

Total Citywide Operating Exp. 

 97,633,900

 

 100.0%

(1) Primarily property tax funded - included in General Fund.

(2) Approximately 50% funded by Property Taxes via Police & Fire in FY 16-17 (but in its own fund).

(3) Primarily funded by parking fine revenue in own fund (no property taxes). Additional interesting and helpful information regarding both the Police Department and the overall City budget is available on the City's website under the Finance Department “Financial Documents & Resources” location.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - How come the "important" stuff, like police and fire, are always at the top of the chopping block?

Police and Fire are not always on the top of the chopping block. However, combined, these two departments represent almost 56% of the total operating expenses in the General Fund, and nearly 68% of the draw on non-designated revenues. If cuts are not discussed or considered then there is no way to balance the impact of cuts on other services – Parks, Library, Land- Use Planning, Municipal Court, Economic Development – against alternatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Is there a study of Police Management and Detectives staffing levels?

The Matrix Police Staffing Study did not highlight anything on supervisors to line staff ratios as an area where management could be decreased to allow more line officers. Since Council did not support pursuing a comparable jurisdiction survey by the Local Government Performance Institute (LGPI) during the FY 11-12 budget process, due to the timing and cost of the proposal, staff did some additional research on both Police Department management to officer ratios in other cities and all other departments’ management and line staff FTE to workload ratios which was presented during the January 27, 2011 presentation to Budget Commission.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why can't we reduce Police staffing?

The City has commissioned staffing studies for both Police Officer staffing levels and 9-1-1 Dispatch staffing levels. Both reports indicate that additional staff is needed to meet minimum standards and best practice levels of service. To read more, see these reports. In addition, the League of Oregon Cities published a research report titled “City Police Officer Data – 2009” that provides detailed tables and analysis of the number of full-time officers in city police departments. LOC developed this report using data from the Oregon State Police, Law Enforcement Data Systems (LEDS). In order to look at the trend in city police departments, LOC’s data tables look at the number of officers and the officers per 1,000 people in 1999 and 2009. LOC also formats the data to look at trends based on population size. It is important to note however, the number of officers used in this study are from LEDS and not from the individual departments. LEDS numbers of sworn officers is based upon a moment in time and based upon the number of officers currently listed with LEDS to access the LEDS system. The department staffing numbers may not necessarily represent authorized FTE counts since vacancies, at a minimum, are excluded.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why did the City build/staff another firehouse when they should have seen money getting tight?

A considerable amount of work was done when the Zimbrick Station (located on Walnut) was built and staffed eight years ago. Fire Department response times are critical in cases of both fire and medical emergencies. To meet minimum response times in the growing northwest part of town and for the Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District a new station was needed. While calls for service in the intervening years have continued to grow, and despite the strong probability of increased response times for Fire-related emergencies, the Zimbrick Station was closed effective June 16, 2012 based on cost reductions necessary to balance the City’s budget. A study was conducted for the FY 12-13 budget cycle that determined closing the Zimbrick station in combination with moving an ambulance and reorganizing response team staffing should result in improved EMS response times for medical emergencies, which represent the largest number of calls received by the department. With growing northwest populations however, it is not clear that keeping the station closed long-term will be viable for life safety issues. There is increased risk that may be apparent in insurance premiums paid by homeowners in recent and ensuing years.

Studies done when the Zimbrick Station was being considered, as well as the 2012 study that resulted in the Station's closure, are available for review here:

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the City get franchise money from Comcast? If so, hasn't that been increasing enough to offset the Qwest land line losses?

Comcast began paying franchise fees on phone service in FY 2009. Annual revenues although growing, are still less than $170,000 per year, so have not served to offset the land line losses.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the property tax budget issue affect all City operations?

No. It only affects the operations funded by property taxes and other non-designated revenues. The primary services funded by these sources include Police, Fire, Library, Land-Use Planning, Economic Development, Municipal Court and Parks and Recreation. While there are always financial challenges to do with user fee rate setting in the water, sewer, storm water, airport, housing, parking, transit or development services funds, these services do not receive any property tax revenue so service priorities are more standalone in nature.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How can you say that property taxes are not growing – my taxes went up last year?

Oregon constitutional tax limits allow each property’s assessed value to increase 3% every year unless the property’s real market value is reduced to below the assessed value. In Benton County, residential property is generally assessed at about 60% of the real market value, so even in the down economy, drops in real market value have not stopped the 3% increase in assessed value on many parcels of property. For example, if your home had a real market value of $300,000 and assessed value of around $180,000 (60% of real market value), your property’s real market value would have to drop to below $180,000 to see a reduction in property taxes.

Other classes of property, like industrial property, have real market value close to the assessed value, and with declining real market value the assessed value, and the taxes that are paid, decline each year. Industrial property is such a large proportion of the City’s total assessed value that the overall reductions in their value, particularly with successful revaluations by tax payers such as Hewlett-Packard, bring the total growth in all assessed value down to less than 3%. For FY13-14, the City’s total assessed value, and property tax revenue, increased by only 1.49%; however, FY 14-15 saw a 4.28% increase, and FY 15-16 saw only a 2.49% increase, bringing the average over the prior ten years to 2.73%.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How much franchise fee revenue has been lost from Qwest by the move from land lines to cell phones?

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - If the proportion of the total revenues impacted by property taxes is less than 50% of total revenue, why is this such a big deal?

Though property tax sources are only about 30% of the City’s total operations, when looking at General Fund operations alone, the combination of permanent rate taxes, Operating Levy dollars, Library district and Rural Fire district monies as well as other non-dedicated revenue sources provide more than 70% of the monies for the fire, land-use planning and police and more than 50% for library, parks & recreation and economic development services. Many of these are services where there is either no real way to charge specific users or where the charges would be so high that very few could afford to use the service.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Is there a way to have a tiered tax rate levy?

There does not appear to be anything in statute that would allow a multi-rate levy. However, a higher rate levy can be underlevied – as has occurred with the 509J levy where voter approval is for a maximum rate, but the District has chosen in some years to levy less than the maximum allowed.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Since there is a declining industrial property tax base, what contributions does OSU make for City services that are provided to campus (and other state/federal property in the city limits)?

OSU, along with all other state property used for state purposes, is exempt from all property taxes. So when the Hilton was built, on OSU land, there was some talk about it being tax exempt -- not true since it does not provide a governmental (or educational) purpose. In Corvallis, OSU has a significant presence and also a substantial amount of land and value in buildings. In the late 90's OSU had insurance coverage for $800 to $900 million -- it is likely safe to assume the real market value for this land may well be in excess of $1 billion now. In addition to OSU, all City, County, School District, and federal government facilities are exempt from property taxes as long as the property is used for governmental purposes. While not discussed much in the popular press, this is a big issue for county governments where the county has a significant chunk of land tied up in federal or state forest land. For cities, Salem, Eugene, and Corvallis all have significant state/university presence that takes a fair amount of property off the tax rolls. In addition to government, taxes are not levied on churches or synagogues, or on non-profit facilities such as the Boys and Girls Club. In general, the City provides all services to all facilities inside the City limits. About the only exception is that the Police Department does not provide police service to the OSU campus, but they certainly have a fair share of work in the neighborhoods around the campus. The Transit System has built a number of routes designed to get people to and from the campus, and the Fire Department responds to all emergency calls there. The City does not maintain the roads on campus, but has all the responsibility for the roads (and bike paths) that get people to the campus. As for payment from these non-profits: OSU, other governments, and all non-profits pays for water/sewer/storm drain service monthly based on usage. By extension, they all also pay the Transportation Maintenance Fee on the City Services Bill. OSU makes an additional contribution each year to the Transit System for operations and the ASOSU assesses fees to OSU students which are passed on the City to help pay for the late night Beaver Bus program. OSU also provides funding for a portion of one Fire Prevention Officer's time onsite, which is FY16-17 amounts to a payment of $90,000. Beginning in FY 17-18, OSU will be providing $400,000 in funding toward 3.0 FTE Police Officer positions. By using departmental savings from FY 15-16, these three positions will be hired in FY 16-17 so that they can be fully trained in time to provide services in FY 17-18.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - What are non-designated revenues?

Also referred to as "non-dedicated," these are the revenues which the City receives without strings attached on their use by other entities, and include property taxes levied for operations, franchise fees, a portion of transient room taxes, plus certain state shared revenues (cigarette and alcohol tax based). Combined, these revenues typically total just 30% of the City’s total revenue stream, but are more than 70% of the revenue for the property tax supported operations. All of the City’s other $60 million in revenue is designated, meaning there is a mandate from another entity (usually state or federal law) that limits what the money can be spent on.

Category: Financial Budget
Sometimes my water smells like chlorine. Why is that?

The Taylor and Rock Creek facilities both treat the water with chlorine. Low doses of chlorine act as a disinfectant protecting you against disease-causing microorganisms in the water. We are required by law to add disinfectant in order to meet state and federal regulatory mandates for safe drinking water. 

If you find the chlorine taste unpleasant, try filling a container with water and keeping it loosely capped in the refrigerator. 

Category: Water Treatment
The City plowed snow into my driveway and onto my sidewalk, when are they going to come back and remove it?

Our goal is to clear the roadway for safe travel. Unfortunately, berming is an inconvenient result of plowing. Adjacent property owners are responsible for clearing the berm to gain access to the roadway. We do not have the available resources to provide this service, and this is one way you can help.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What are some examples of ordinance violations?

A few common example violations include dumping used car oil or washing paint brushes into City storm drains, connecting a sink drain to the City storm system, or dumping litter or yard debris directly in a Corvallis stream. This is, however, not a comprehensive list of violations. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to review the ordinance to learn what personal activities may be affected by this new ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What are the meanings of sharrow markings (two chevrons with a bicycle symbol) on the road?

Sharrows are road markings used to show motorist that people riding bicycles may “take the lane” and helps show the bicycle rider good lane positioning. Use the sharrow marking to guide you where to ride within the lane.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If you need non-emergency assistance, please call 541-766-6924.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What does the ordinance cover?

The ordinance protects all parts of the City stormwater system, which includes City infrastructure, as well as natural features like streams from any pollutant that changes the physical, chemical, or biological properties of the stormwater. (For more information, see section 4.04.020 for a definition of pollutant and storm drainage system). 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What else is Corvallis doing to protect water quality through stormwater pollution prevention?

Since 2004, the City has taken steps to improve water quality and reduce The City is Doing It's Part Preventing Stormwater Pollution stormwater pollution in a variety of ways. We've enacted land development codes that protect waterways from pollution that can occur from urban development and created a robust program to monitor construction activities to ensure best practices. In addition, the City Stormwater Program regularly educates and engages Corvallis residents, students, and businesses in preventing stormwater pollution prevention. For more information, please visit the City Stormwater Program. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What happens if I violate the ordinance?

If the City becomes aware of a violation, the first step taken by the City will be to contact the responsible party and provide information about the issue and the water quality implications. If no action is taken to address the issue, then a formal letter will be sent, as is outlined in section 4.04.090.020 of the proposed ordinance. If sufficient action is still not taken then a fine no less than $100 and no more than $20,000 and/or 30 days in jail may be issued. In some cases, an alternative compensatory action may be substituted for fines and jail time. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What if I don't know what to do at an arraignment, how to plead or proceed?

The Municipal Court Judge can grant you a continuance for you to get legal advice. You must ask the judge, at the arraignment time set by the officer, to get additional time and to have a new date to appear assigned to you. Neither the Judge nor court staff can give you legal advice.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What if this happened in another city?

If the incident you would like to report took place outside of the City of Corvallis, please call the police department for that city.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on a state freeway?

 If this took place on a state freeway please call the Oregon State Police Office nearest you.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on the Oregon State University campus?

If your incident occurred on the OSU campus, please call 541-737-3010 to file your report.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you, or someone you know, has information that you believe will identify the person(s) who committed the crime.  This could include video surveillance, someone who can identify the suspect, or license plate information for the suspect's vehicle.  If there is a known suspect, please call us at 541-766-6924 so we can investigate the incident.  

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a violation? What is a misdemeanor?

A violation is a minor infraction in which punishment is limited to a fine only. A misdemeanor is a minor crime in which punishment is limited to imprisonment of up to one year, a fine or both. 
 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is the first appearance before a court to answer to a charge. When you receive a citation, you must enter a plea of either guilty, no contest, or not guilty to the court. This entry of plea is done at arraignment. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What is crack seal?

Crack seal is a hot, sticky, petroleum-based pavement crack and joint sealant. It does not resurface the entire street – it just fills cracks. The sealant forms a long-lasting, resilient seal which is flexible and expandable in varying and extreme pavement temperatures. Crack sealing prevents the invasion of surface water between the layers of asphalt and sub-grade rock, thus preventing premature pavement failures, deterioration and potholes. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
What is the overall purpose of the “Maintaining Public Streets during Snow and Ice Events” policy?

The purpose of this policy is to clarify and describe the City’s snow removal and sanding priorities and the level of service that is intended to be provided by City crews. The City does not guarantee that streets will be free of snow and ice after plowing and/or sanding. Bare, dry pavement should not be expected. The City will attempt to maintain adequate traction for vehicles properly equipped for winter driving conditions.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What is the risk of Cryptosporidium in our water?

Cryptosporidium 

(krip-toe-spor-ID-eum) is a microscopic organism that is naturally present in bodies of water throughout the world. Swallowing these tiny organisms can cause an intestinal illness known as cryptosporidiosis, although some persons infected with Cryptosporidium do not get sick. Symptoms include stomach cramps, upset stomach, and diarrhea. For most healthy people, the illness runs its course in a few weeks without serious consequences. However, for the elderly, young children, or for people with weakened immune systems, the disease can be life threatening. 

Cryptosporidiosis can be transmitted by swallowing contaminated water or food (such as unwashed fruits and vegetables), or by touching your mouth or putting anything in your mouth that has touched the feces of a person or animal with cryptosporidioisis. This includes diapers, farm or yard equipment, and pet waste. Studies have shown that about 1/3 of the population has been recently exposed to this germ, indicating that there are many sources of exposure. 

We have been testing city water for Cryptosporidium since 1994. The results indicate that no Cryptosporidium organisms have been detected. We believe the risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis from city tap water is quite low, however, if you are infected with HIV or have AIDS, are a cancer patient, are taking immunosuppressive drugs after a transplant, or were born with a weakened immune system, we encourage you to consult with your physician. Health officials may suggest that you take additional precautions, such as boiling drinking water for one minute before consuming it. 

Category: Water Treatment
What should I move out of the street during snow and ice removal in my area?

Residents are asked to remove their parked vehicles, boats, and trailers from city streets if possible. The City will not be responsible for vehicles parked on the street that are isolated by snow piles due to plowing operations. 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What was the impact on the City of the Court decision to uphold Hewlett-Packard’s (HP) appeal of its assessed valuation (AV) for property taxes?

In the summer of 2013, after the City’s FY 13-14 Budget was adopted, the State Department of Revenue filed an appeal of the award made to HP by the Oregon Supreme Court, thereby deferring the requirement to refund about $385,000 (city’s share) in interest until this later appeal is resolved. This adjustment, as well as other refinements for reserves held by the County, reduced the City’s direct portion of monies owed to HP to $1.4 million. This amount was paid in July 2013; additional revenue impacts to the City were monies owed by the Corvallis Rural Fire District ($88,726) and the Corvallis-Benton County Library Service District ($149,421). This $238,000 in payouts has decreased FY 13-14 payments to the City by these entities. The County has indicated that additional holdbacks will be made in FY 14-15 for the interest that is still potentially owed to HP. This situation impacts all General Fund services (i.e. Police, Fire, CD-Planning, Parks & Recreation, Library, Economic Development and Municipal Court), but was somewhat alleviated for future years with the passage of the November 2013 Five-year Operating Levy which provides approximately $600,000 per year in non-designated revenues designed to replace the lost funding for the lower HP valuation. City Council was provided with the linked memos below, as staff continues to work on a resolution of this financial situation. Ultimately, as of August 6, 2015 the Oregon Supreme Court reaffirmed the Tax Court's decision. 

HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome
HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome - Second Memo
Property Tax Assessed Value FY13-14
Benton County Press Release August 2015

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
When do you have arraignments?

Arraignments are:

Mondays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

  • 3 p.m. Criminal Arraignments

Thursdays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
When do you plow?

Plowing will begin when accumulating snow exceeds approximately two (2) inches.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
When do you sand?

Sanding will begin as soon as slick street conditions materialize. Sanding operations will stop if snow accumulations are covering over applied sand, making sanding operations ineffective.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Where can I get a copy of an ordinance?

The City Recorder at City Hall has all ordinances and you may request a copy. There is a 25¢ per page copy fee.

Please contact the City Recorder at (541) 766-6901 for more information. You may also go to the Public Library (645 NW Monroe, Corvallis, Oregon, 97330) where the Library staff can assist you in locating specific ordinances. 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Who clears the sidewalk in front of my business or residence?

All sidewalks and walkways adjacent to City-owned and maintained property and public parking lots are cleared by the City. Public sidewalks and private parking lots are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. Sidewalks not cleared within 24 hours after the snow and/or ice event has concluded can be subject to code enforcement actions (Municipal Code 5.04.050, Nuisances affecting public safety). 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Who should I contact if I notice plants, branches, leaf piles or other obstructions in the bike lane? What if objects block my line of sight?

We look toward our community in assistance for identifying issues like these and have set up an online form so you can quickly report hazards 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Once our team receives the issue you have identified, we quickly take steps on proper mitigation if there is a problem. You can get started by visiting Corvallis Connect, our online service request portal, to report the issue. 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Who will be affected by this ordinance?

The Corvallis storm system connects most of our City to waterways via storm drains. This means that all residents, businesses, and industries could be potentially impacted by this ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
Why are city staff releasing water from fire hydrants? Doesn't that waste water?

Technicians routinely flush water mains to keep our drinking water clean by removing rust and sediment that might be trapped in the distribution system. Flushing also allows crews to make sure all the valves and fire hydrants are operating as they should. To help protect the environment, the chlorine is removed from this water before it is discharged into the storm drain system. The chlorine in the water could be harmful to aquatic life, and most storm drains discharge directly into Corvallis’ urban streams.

Category: Water Conservation
Why are some bike lanes painted green?

A green bike lane enhances the visibility of a bicycle lane in places where there is a potential for conflict with motor vehicles. In Corvallis, we add these to bike lanes where automobile traffic crosses a bike lane. The dashed green strip shows a mixing zone where all users must be most cautious.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Why does the snow plow go down the street with the plow up?

There are many reasons for them to be traveling with the plow up. For example, the plow could be traveling back to the shop for repairs or there may not be enough snow on the street to plow.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Why is the flight path for the Corvallis Airport over the heavily populated area rather than away from it? Is this really something that cannot be changed, or attempted to be changed?

This question comes up each year when the weather gets nicer and people start working outside or keeping their windows open. This approach can’t be changed because it is the all-weather Instrument Landing System (ILS) precision approach to Runway 17, our main runway. Instrument landing systems are one of two types of precision approaches which allow an aircraft to safely land in all types of weather. Usually, they are only found at commercial airports because they cost millions of dollars. Ours was installed in the 1980’s when commercial flights were operating out of Corvallis. It is maintained by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is part of what draws business jets and charter flights into Corvallis, especially in the winter. It is setup on our main runway coming from the north because 70% of the time that is where the prevailing winds are coming from (the south). The safest direction for aircraft to land is into the wind. Aircraft use that approach each day, usually one or two dozen aircraft, including the US Army National Guard helicopters from Salem, the USCG helicopters from Newport and Astoria, FEDEX, UPS, business jets, and our local REACH Air Medical air ambulance. REACH requires this approach for operation out of Corvallis. They use it when returning from ambulance calls at night and in bad weather, and would have to relocate to another airport if the ILS was shutdown. Again, no other runway or direction would work for this approach. While we could ask the FAA to decommission the ILS at Corvallis, they normally require the airport sponsor (City of Corvallis in this case) to repay the FAA for the last 20 years of maintenance and improvements that have been made to that system. This is one of the “Grants and Assurances” we signed as part of our acceptance of FAA grant funds over the years. This would also reduce and possibly eliminate any business or charter aircraft coming into Corvallis, especially in the winter and bad weather months. Why is this approach used during the nice weather when you can see forever? Pilots are required to recertify on this system regularly, and they are not allowed to practice or get this certification training in bad weather.

Category: Airport
Why should we be concerned with water conservation in Corvallis?

Even when the water supply is adequate, conservation is simply a wise use of a precious resources. Conservation can contribute to a healthy environment, reduce your water bill, and ensure an adequate water supply for years. Using water wisely just makes good $ense! 

Category: Water Conservation
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water interferes with the crack-sealing process, so we ask residents not to water lawns, wash cars, or engage in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day their street is crack-sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will access to my street be affected?

You may drive on the street, but on-street parking will be prohibited. Sidewalks will not be closed. Postal, garbage, and recycling services will be notified before work begins, and there should be no or minimal interruption of these services during the work. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will you be clearing bike paths?

We will attempt to plow or sand bike lanes on the streets; however, limited time and resources prevent us from plowing or sanding bike paths that are separate from the roadways.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
¿Qué es un sospechoso conocido?

Un sospechoso conocido es cuando usted (o alguien presente) conoce a la persona o donde encontrar a la persona que cometió el crimen o el número de la patente del auto donde iba el sospechoso.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué hago si realizar una denuncia en línea no es lo apropiado en mi caso?

Si su incidente es una emergencia, llame al 911. Si no es una emergencia llame al 541-766-6924.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué pasa si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal?

Si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal por favor llame a la Patrulla de Autopistas de más cercana.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Si el incidente ocurre en otra ciudad, puedo utilizar este sistema de denuncia?

 No, si el crimen ocurrió fuera de la ciudad de Corvallis Police Department por favor llame al departamento de policía de la ciudad que corresponda.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
Is the City of Corvallis budget in line with other cities?

The budget for Corvallis is comparable to similarly sized cities, though a straight apples-to-apples comparison can be difficult. The City’s comparators include Albany, Bend, Springfield, Tigard, and Medford. In some of those communities, Parks and Recreation, Library, and Fire services may be provided by a separate taxing entity. This can make city-to-city comparisons more difficult. But where comparisons can be made, we line up.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Can we do more with less?

The City’s costs to continue providing existing services grow faster than revenue grows. As a result, the City has been cutting back on costs for a number of years, even as the total budget has grown. The City actively pursues methods for conserving and cutting costs. Significant efforts in recent years have included building solar power stations using grant monies to help offset significant electrical costs, changing to LED street lights as well as moving to LED lighting in buildings. Even with these changes and the cost savings associated with them, other costs are growing faster than revenues.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Should salaries be adjusted downwards? Can we put a hold on raises?

Salary and benefits for most City employees are negotiated with the four labor unions that represent them (Police, Fire, 911 and General Service Employees). The only group not represented by a labor union is management staff and a few confidential employees who are exempt employees.

Negotiations with the labor unions must meet the requirements set forth in the Oregon law, known as the Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act. This law requires us to look at what similar sized comparator agencies are paying in total compensation. In addition, the City has a compensation policy that states the City will be within +/- 5% of the average of our comparators.

The City is unable to decrease salaries or withhold negotiated pay increases without bargaining those changes with the labor unions that represent City staff.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
I pay over $4,000 a year in property taxes. How much goes to Corvallis?

Roughly one-third of your total property tax bill goes to the City of Corvallis. If you are paying $4,000 in property tax, you are paying City taxes of $1,119 for the permanent tax rate, $180 for the local option levy, and $55 for voter-approved debt for a total of $1,354. This is about 34% of the total property taxes you pay.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
With all the new apartments I’m seeing around town, why isn’t there more funding for our services?

All newly developed property is added to the tax rolls at lower than real market value as a result of tax laws in Oregon. Multi-family property added in 2016 has an assigned assessed value of 62% of the real market value, so if you look at an apartment with a $1 million value, the assessed value would be $620,000 and that tax bill for the City’s permanent rate would be $3,166.

As an example, The Retreat at Oak Creek, which was added to the tax rolls with fully developed real market value of $95 million has an assigned assessed value of $58.5 million. The taxes they will pay for the City’s permanent rate total $299,000, not the $485,140 they would have paid if assessed at full market value.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
How are OSU and Samaritan Services contributing to the City’s Budget? How are their property taxes assessed?

Neither OSU nor Samaritan Health Services pays property taxes on their facilities used for their operations. Both pay taxes on parcels used by for-profit operations. For example, the Hilton Hotel parcel is taxed even though it is on OSU property.

However, OSU voluntarily contributes to Transit, Fire Prevention and Police Department staffing.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Have you considered taxing Oregon State University?

Yes. However, state law does not allow it. OSU contributes to Transit Operations, Fire Prevention, and funds three police officers. OSU also pays all required fees (e.g., building permits, transportation maintenance fees, system development charges).

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why not require Oregon State University to create their own Police force or pay Corvallis to Police for them?

OSU uses the Oregon State Police Department for on-campus policing service. The City Police Department provides all policing services off-campus. In 2016, the City and OSU agreed on a cooperative effort and OSU is granting $1.2 million to Corvallis Police over 3 years to support local law enforcement. This is an unprecedented collaboration.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
We spend the bulk of City funds on Police. Is this needed or can we become more automated and efficient?

The City has made significant investments in efficiency automation for the Police department over the years, including investigative technology, online self-reporting of certain allowable offenses, social media and text-to-911 for emergency dispatch. The City implemented e-citations for both Police and Parking with automated download features. In short, the Police Department is a technologically advanced department and currently maximizes allowable public safety technology.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why are the calls for service for the Fire Department going up? Do we charge people for these calls?

Corvallis Fire Department is an ‘all hazard’ department, meaning we provide fire, rescue, emergency planning and prevention services for the City of Corvallis and Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District.

In addition, we provide transport ambulance services for the majority of Benton County and a portion of Linn County (765 square mile area). Also, we provide hazardous materials response in partnership with the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Albany Fire Department and Lebanon Fire District covering Linn, Benton, Lincoln and Polk counties.

Calls for service increase as our population grows and as our demographics change with people getting older. As mobile phones have become commonplace, calls for service have increased. In addition, the Fire Department role has evolved – when people have a problem they don’t know how to handle, they often call the Fire Department. We are often called to assist community members with everything from personal care issues to actual hazard mitigation such as ruptured gas lines.

The Fire Department ambulance service is supported by user fees, and there are a number of cost recovery fees in place for responses such as non-resident motor vehicle crashes; violations of the fire code; out of district responses to ‘un-covered’ areas.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Is the City’s fareless transit system really sustainable?

Fareless Transit was implemented by the City Council to achieve several goals.

One was to increase ridership by creating a barrier-free system, especially for low income residents. This goal has been achieved by a system generating more than 1 million rides a year in a town of 58,735 people.

Another goal was to improve the system’s on-time operation by eliminating the time it took for people to drop fares in the box and obtain transfer tickets. The efficiencies gained in this area have been somewhat offset by the on- and off-boarding of more passengers. However, there have been staff time savings from not having to process the coinage and produce transfer tickets. The Transit Operations Fee has the added benefit of being able to match federal transit operating grants, while fare box revenue cannot. This ensures we are able to use 100% of our federal grant allocation and not leave any federal funding on the table unspent.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why and how were these streets chosen and prioritized?

Between 2015 and 2018, the City engaged the community through open houses, public hearings, work groups, advisory committees, and a community-wide survey to create the Transportation System Plan (TSP), which was adopted by the City Council in 2018. It was during this process that the low-stress network was identified to improve walking and biking conditions throughout Corvallis. The streets chosen provide an alternative to adjacent, higher volume roadways for those on foot, wheel or mobility device.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why does the City run a parking program, anyway? I should be able to park where I want.

Parking in Corvallis is managed by the City to balance the availability and convenience of public parking in neighborhoods and business districts throughout the community. Public parking is not intended for long-term vehicle storage, nor does any business, neighborhood, or household “own” the public parking spots in front of their property. The Corvallis community is also interested in minimizing vehicle trips to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adjusting the pricing for public parking meters in Corvallis is one of the tools that can help achieve those goals.

Category: Parking
If we don’t have money, why are we funding low income housing which will not provide revenue?

Most of the funding for affordable housing comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), not local funds. The City enacted a new affordable housing Construction Excise Tax in 2016 which is assessed against building permits and not funded by property taxes. By state law, the City can utilize this excise tax revenue to support affordable housing.

Additionally, there is a strong desire for people who work in Corvallis to be able to live here. Without additional affordable housing opportunities, many people who work in Corvallis will continue to live outside the city and commute, adding to street congestion and carbon emissions.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Where does the money I pay in meter fees and citations go?

All fees collected from parking customers stays in the Parking Fund and is used to maintain, operate, and regulate parking facilities. Parking Fund money doesn’t go to pay for police cars or fill potholes or replace streetlights. Rates are adjusted as needed to ensure that the system is used consistent with adopted goals and practices and to ensure that the fees collected cover the costs associated with managing parking for the entire Corvallis community. The City provides a transparent accounting of the Parking Fund each year as part of the annual budget process.

Category: Parking
Will we lose on-street parking?

Removal of on-street parking is not typically part of a Neighborhood Bikeway. However, there may be a small number of locations where parking may need to be restricted. For example, areas adjacent to intersections or where a speed hump is installed.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Could a local gas tax be used to fund streets?

It could. Some communities around Oregon have been successful at implementing a local gas tax. However, there are challenges when one community in an area implements a local gas tax and other nearby communities don’t.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
What about emergency vehicle access?

Emergency vehicle access will not be affected. The Fire and Police Departments review plans for treatments like speed humps and traffic circles to ensure they are designed to maintain emergency vehicle access. By their nature, Neighborhood Bikeways are almost entirely on low volume residential streets, which are not considered backbone emergency response routes for Police and Fire.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are parking meter rates being raised?

Meter rates haven’t been raised since 2008, while costs to maintain the system have increased. The Parking Fund can no longer sustain needed operations without borrowing from the General Fund, which is not sustainable.

Category: Parking
How do meter rates in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

We completed a parking audit recently and meter rates were compared with Eugene, Hood River, Missoula MT, Salem, and Spokane WA. Corvallis’s current typical hourly rate is $0.50, the new typical hourly rate will be $1.00, and the hourly rate of the comparator cities averages $1.23. We are still below many of our comparator cities in terms of hourly prices.

Category: Parking
What is the City doing to attract new businesses to town? What about locating businesses in the Hewlett-Packard building targeted for demolition?

The City operates the Economic Development Office through an intergovernmental agreement with Benton County. The office is charged with implementing the Economic Development Strategy.

While its focus is primarily assisting existing businesses, the Economic Development Office routinely responds to recruitment leads from the State’s Economic Development Department (Business Oregon), as well as leads from other sources. The Economic Development Office also looks for businesses to fill vacant spaces throughout Benton County, including buildings on the HP Campus. Unfortunately, there just has not been a market for 62,000 square feet of office space in the building mentioned.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will other neighborhood streets see more traffic as a result?

Though proposed treatments are designed to achieve safer, slower speeds on Neighborhood Bikeway routes, we do not expect a significant diversion to nearby streets.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are citation fees being increased?

Fees for meter and overtime violations (also known as parking tickets) have not been raised since 2003. Similar to meter rates, these fees no longer pay to cover the costs associated with managing public parking for all users, both residents and visitors.

Category: Parking
Why doesn’t the City get out of PERS and move to a defined contribution plan for all new hires? Can the City Manager stop giving PERS benefits?

By Oregon law, the City may not exit the PERS system. Even if an exit was allowed, the City would have to pay its share of the PERS Unfunded Actuarial Liability since that cost is based on benefits already earned that PERS will be required to pay out.

The City Manager does not make any decisions with regard to PERS benefits. The PERS benefit structure is the responsibility of the Oregon Legislature. If you would like to see changes, we recommend you talk with your state legislators or the Governor’s office.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will my street be closed to cars?

No. All streets will remain open to vehicle traffic. Access to homes and businesses will be unaffected.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Are you installing designated bike lanes?

The vast majority of Neighborhood Bikeway streets will have shared roadway markings (also known as “sharrows”) to indicate that the streets are shared by people bicycling and driving. Some routes are on collectors or arterials for short segments and these connections will typically have already-existing bike lanes.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What about speed limits on these streets?

All local streets in Corvallis currently have a speed limit of 25 mph. Traffic calming may achieve lower speeds without changing posted speed limits.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, they will be made available at the links below.  

Road Safety Audit: <link>

Intersection Control Evaluation: <link>

Staff Response Document: <link>

Category: CIP Project Status template
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Road Safety Audit: 

Highland / Grant / Alexander 

Staff Response Documents:

NW Highland Drive 

NW Grant Avenue

SE Alexander Avenue

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Western Blvd - 35th St. Safety Evaluation 

35th St. Lighting Analysis

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Road Safety Audit: 

Conifer / Walnut 

Staff Response Documents: 

NE Conifer Boulevard

NE Walnut Boulevard

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Intersection Control Evaluation:

NW 9th Street & Buchanan Avenue 

Staff Response: 

NW 9th & Buchanan Intersection

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Road Safety Audit: 

NW Garfield Avenue / Appendix

Staff Response: NW Garfield Avenue 

Intersection Control Evaluation: 

NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue

Staff Response: NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue Intersection 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Staff Report (January 9, 2025 Council Work Session)

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Will these streets get repaved?

Some segments of Neighborhood Bikeways will see localized repairs or patching. However, due to limited budgets, the priority for major rehabilitation projects is the collector and arterial system. For more information on future resurfacing projects, please visit the Capital Improvement Program’s latest adopted plan. To learn more about how Corvallis streets are assessed and prioritized for repairs visit the Street Maintenance webpage. If you see a small scale repair like a pothole you can report it to the City via Report A Problem (select “Pothole”). City staff will assess the location and determine if it is able to be repaired.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I ride an e-micromobility device on the sidewalk?

No. Oregon State Law prohibits riding e-bikes and e-scooters on the sidewalk.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction.  Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project.  Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on.  For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input."  Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards.  An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project.  The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will also be provided below when available. To sign up for notices about upcoming TAT meetings, [ADD HOW TO SIGN UP FOR TAT MEETING NOTICES]. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD (meeting dates/materials will be added here when available) 

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Status template
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting (Took place June 27, 2024) 

TAT Meeting Presentation (with graphics)

TAT Comment Responses

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

For more information about traffic circles, visit the Traffic Circle FAQ page.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why is the speed limit changing on Circle Boulevard?

When Circle Boulevard was extended from Dale Drive to Harrison Boulevard, a temporary speed limit was posted by the City knowing an official speed zone investigation would be required by state law. This speed zone investigation was delayed for several years because of the Covid-19 pandemic. After the pandemic when traffic volumes rebounded to more historic levels, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), who regulates speed limit postings statewide, contacted the City to initiate the speed zone investigation process. Like other states, Oregon relies heavily on the measured operating speed of vehicles using the corridor when establishing speed limits. Public perception of speed, or the speed we may want people to drive, are not factors that the State considers when setting speed limits.  Due to the outcome of this recent speed zone investigation, speed limits along this portion of Circle Boulevard must be changed.

Information on speed zones in Oregon can be found here.

Information on speed zone investigation basics can be found here.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Status template
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Construction (current phase)

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

Week of September 15, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

  • No work is planned this week.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 8, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • No work is planned for the next few weeks.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 1, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Waterline installation under Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will continue.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled start is 9/29.
    • Waterline testing, servicing and tie-overs of the new line to occur in early October.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • There will be a push to final pave the waterline trench before the rains come. Right now it is looking like that will be happening middle to late October. This will require a return in the spring to grind and final pave the remainder of Western and 35th.
  • Traffic patterns for game day, Saturday, August 30th
    • 35th Street will be closed north of the OSU Student Farm entrance (AKA Oak Creek Center for Urban Horticulture, OSU Apiary)
    • Access to the OSU Student Farm driveway will be two-way traffic on 35th Street from Western Blvd.
    • Both east side and west side sidewalks on 35th Street will be open between Sagebrush and Washington Way.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 9/1 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at the north side of Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be maintained, but there may be changes in whether it is the east or west side sidewalk that is open depending on how the waterline work is sequenced. Ped detours will be clearly marked.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 25, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Boring and insertion of waterline through casing beneath Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will be underway this week.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled  for 9/29.
    • Final asphalt trench patch to follow waterline testing and servicing.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • Timing for final paving is being evaluated. Given impacts to the schedule due to the delays with obtaining the railroad permitting, it is likely final paving will wait until Spring 2026.  More to come on paving status with next week’s update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/25 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits have been constructed at Oak Creek. The boring will begin Monday.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Resurfacing
    • Will continue on 35th, Western, and the short section of W. Hills once the waterline has been installed, tested and put into service.
    • Paving is anticipated to begin mid to late September. More defined dates on this to come in the next couple of weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/18 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

This is the last weekly update for 11th Street. The following work will occur next week and in the coming weeks as specified.

  • Striping around the traffic circle at 11th/Tyler is expected to be completed mid-week.
  • Installation of the speed hump between Taylor and Fillmore will be installed when the paving contractor comes back to complete paving on Western and 35th in mid- September.
  • The re-installation of the bike hoops in front of the Corvallis Bicycle Collective will be occurring this week.
  • Remaining landscape restorations are expected to occur in a few weeks once the weather improves to support seeding.
  • 11th Street will be opened to traffic. Expect there to be some short duration traffic pattern changes when the above-mentioned work occurs.

Week of August 11, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits will be under construction at Oak Creek.
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/18
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/11 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Deon, Western, West Hills and Ivy will remain open to traffic. Possible lane shift at 15th/Western intersection.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 11, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Grinding and paving will continue 8/11 thru 8/13.
  • Paving limits on 11th are from Van Buren to Fillmore.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to traffic during the day and reopened after working hours. Detours will be in place.

Week of August 4, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Aug 4th 35th St Sketch (click to view) 

Aug 4th Western 26 to 15 Sketch (click to view)

Aug 4th Western Hwy to W Hills Sketch (click to view)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will resume on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits either side of Oak Creek will take several days to construct
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/11
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Street grinding and paving will be occurring this week at the following locations.
    • Western Blvd – 8/4 to 8/5 between Hwy 34 and West Hills Rd.
    • Western Blvd – 8/6 to 8/7 between 26th and 15th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Western Blvd
      • 8/4 to 8/5 Western will be closed to traffic from Hwy 34 to West Hills Road. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
      • 8/6 to 8/7 Western will be closed to traffic from 26th to 15th. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
    • West Hills Rd
      • 8/4 will be closed to eastbound traffic, but open to west bound traffic. A detour will be in place for eastbound traffic that utilizes Hwy 34.
    • Ivy Pl.
      • 8/4 will be closed at Western. A detour will be in place that utilizes Deon
    • Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 4, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) is in progress at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk. These surfaces will be maintained as rock until 8/8 when base lift paving will occur.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to occur 8/11 and 8/12
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) will be occurring at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk.
    • 11th will be closed to thru traffic during the reconstruct excavation / prep activity. Open at end of shift. Intersections will remain rock until base lift paving on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to begin the week of 8/11
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 21, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 15th/Western
  • Electrical work on the 15th/Western traffic light will be occurring mid-week.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided in the next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week July 21st will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes to accommodate construction.
    • On Wednesday, 7/23, the intersection of Western Blvd and 15th St. will be reduced to one lane in each direction and controlled by 4-way stop. Temporary stop signs will be installed. The traffic signal will be turned off to accommodate electrical upgrades.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 21, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Construction of the traffic circle at 11th and Tyler will be ongoing.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.
  • Street reconstruction at the intersections of Polk/11th and Tyler/11th may get started by the end of the week.

Week of July 14, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Saw cutting will be occurring on Western between Stadium Ave and 15th.
    • Street dig outs will be occurring in Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work and or street dig outs will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when travelling in this location.
    • Flagging control on Western between 26th and 15th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • The new ADA ramps at Stadium/Western intersection will be open and fully accessible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 14, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Work will begin on construction of the Traffic circle located in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.
    • 11th street will be closed to through traffic between Harrison Blvd. and Polk Ave. during working hours.
    • Tyler Ave. will be closed to through traffic between 10th St. and 12th St. during working hours
    • During nonwork hours use extreme caution when maneuvering around the construction zone in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.

Week of July 7, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Western/Stadium Avenue
    • Sawcutting will be occurring on Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • Flagging control at the intersection of Western and 26th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 7, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 14th.

Week of June 30, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  30th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic, however lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 30, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 11th.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Ivy/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will begin;
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  23rd will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • Flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western will be in place at times.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Landscape restorations and cleanup will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 23rd will include;
    • 11th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours may still be in place a select location or two.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will start up again this week and will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work at Deon/Western and at Ivy/Western and possible work at Sagebrush/35th will be taking place and expected to last a couple of weeks.
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs were almost completed last week. They will be finishing up this week.
  • Some landscape restoration may be occurring this week behind and around the new concrete sidewalk.
  • Street paving is not planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • 11th Street will be opening back up to traffic toward the end of this week.
    • Pedestrian detours will be removed once the ADA sidewalk ramps are opened back up to travel.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week. Refer to the June 2nd weekly report for project status.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs will be finishing up this week.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 9th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted into the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week.

Schedules have been re-evaluated from last week’s update and will start up again as follows.

  • Week of June 16th – ADA work will begin on 35th Street
  • Week of June 30th – A full time closure will begin on 35th Street at Oak Creek Bridge to begin digging and preparations for the waterline boring at the creek. More details on the closure will be provided as we approach this date.
  • Preparations for the railroad crossing will commence following a completed crossing at Oak Creek contingent upon final rail permitting. More detailed information about street closures and detours will be provided for the rail crossings in a few weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks will be ongoing.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause will be for one more week.

Work is expected to begin again on 35th Street the week of June 2nd. Work will begin on the waterline crossing at Oak Creek. A full closure on 35th Street north of Sagebrush and south of Washington Way will be required to complete this work. The closure will be in place 24/7 from June 2nd through June 20th. Updates and details on this closure will be provided with next Friday’s posting. Local access to the few residents and OSU facilities in this closed section will be coordinated. Emergency access through this closure will be evaluated and communicated with Fire and dispatch.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp replacements will continue at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause is still anticipated at 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
    • No sketch this week. All roads will be open as specified.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be starting Monday on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp removal and replacement work at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 12, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

The work on 35th/Western will be taking a pause starting mid-week and will resume once our contractor has their final railroad right of entry permitting in place. Estimated pause is going to be 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Temporary paving of the of the remaining trenches will be occurring early next week at two locations.
    • On Deon Drive at Western Blvd.
    • On Sagebrush Drive at 35th Street.
  • General clean-up and opening of all bike lanes and sidewalks will be occurring prior to the pause.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 12th will include;
    • West Hills Road, Western Blvd. and 35th Street will all be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Sagebrush Drive will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Deon Drive will be in place.
    • Deon Drive, south of Western, will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Ivy Place will be in place.
  • Emergency access will be maintained during trench paving on Sagebrush and on Deon Drive. No impacts to CTS or Beaver Bus is expected.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of May 12, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work on 11th Street is planned for this week; however, work is expected to begin the week of May 19. More detailed information will be provided with next week’s update.

Week of May 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will continue on 35th Street this week.
    • The focus for the week will be to construct the water pipeline on 35th Street, north of Sagebrush Drive, and continue up to the bridge at Oak Creek.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 5th will include;
    • West Hills Road will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western Blvd. will remain open under signal control at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Sagebrush Drive will remain open at 35th Street, south, to Western Blvd.
    • 35th Street north-south travel will remain closed to thru traffic between Western and Washington Way during working hours, and will open back up to normal travel at the end of each work day.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western Blvd. to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison Blvd. to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalks.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd 
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 28, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will be occurring in the 35th/Western intersection and then moving north into 35th Street.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of April 28th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western will remain open under signal control or may be flagged at times at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the  highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd.
    • Detours for the 35th Street closure will be in place during working hours. 35th Street will be opened back up to travel at the end of each working day. Typical work days have been running between 7 am and 4: 30 pm. The contractor has approval to work until 6 pm if needed.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalk. The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will remain closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 21, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Potholing and exploratory work into the intersection of 35th/Western is expected for Thursday and Friday of this week. Our Contractor is preparing to continue with pipeline installation into the intersection and moving north into 35th Street for the week of April 28th.
  • Road dig-outs and repairs will continue on Western Blvd between Ivy Place and the highway Monday thru Wednesday of this week.
  • Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 21st will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Monday thru Wednesday - A road closure and detour on Western Blvd. between Ivy Pl. and Highway 34 will be in place to allow for the continuation of the road dig-outs discussed above.  Westbound traffic on Western will need to use West Hills Rd. to 53rd St., and eastbound traffic will need to use 35th Street from the highway to get back to Western to avoid this specific closure.
    • Thursday thru Friday - The potholing and exploratory work mentioned above will require flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western. We will be adding signage at the entrances to the Western Building off of 35th to help keep these access points clear.
    • Normal traffic flow will be re-established at the end of each work day throughout the project.
    • 35th Street is slated for closure between Western Blvd and Washington Way starting on Monday, April 28th. This will be an extended closure on 35th Street to accommodate the water pipe installation there. More detailed information regarding the 35th Street closure will be provided with the next update, including how work will progress and how local access will be impacted. Emergency vehicle access on 35th Street will be maintained.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed at times and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. As mentioned above, additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Building clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be modified to account for the detours.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service may be modified to account for detours and closures. More to come on this with the next weekly update.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

Week of April 14, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will continue along Western and possibly into the intersection of 35th/Western. Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 14th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions, but may be flagged at times.
    • A lane shift and/or lane closure on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place, and single lane east-west travel will be controlled via flagging.  
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western the signal will be turned off and controlled via flagging. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • This first closure at 35th/Western intersection is coming up the week of April 28th.  More detailed information regarding the intersection closure will be provided in the next update.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. Additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Bld. clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

[Pre-Notice] Week of May 19, 2025 - Start of Construction (11th Street)

  • Our Contractor is planning to mobilize and begin work in mid-May on 11th Street. Work is expected to last through mid-June. Our contractor will clean up the area following their month of prep work, and will return in August for the street paving.
  • The work that occurred this past week with the saw cutting was a pre-cursor of the work to come.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
  • Please notify me if you have any specific needs that I should know about.

The next 11th Street update will be distributed a couple of weeks ahead of the work starting, and then every week while work is active in the area.

Week of April 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will move out of West Hills Rd and into Western Blvd this week.  Installation will approach the intersection of 35th/Western.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 5th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • A lane shift on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place.  East and west travel on Western will be maintained. As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off.  Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • Trenching will be crossing Deon St. entrance from Western (north leg) at some point. There will be no access to Western from Deon (north leg) while pipe is being installed. The contractor will reopen Deon St. as quickly as possible. Pipe installation and backfill associated with this closure at Deon should last a few hours. Access from Sagebrush will remain open. NOTE: Fire will be able to access Deon from Western in an emergency.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

April 3, 2025 – Special Update (35th/Western)

Pacific Excavation will begin water pipeline installation tomorrow, April 3rd. This is work ahead of schedule and will result in the following traffic impacts;

  • West Hills Road will be closed  between Hanson Street and Western Boulevard for a couple of days for the start of pipe installation.
  • A detour for traffic on West Hills Road will be in place as follows;
    • Eastbound traffic on West Hills road will need to use 53rd Street to Highway 34, and then either Western/35th/26th/15th to get back to Western Boulevard.
    • Westbound traffic on Western Blvd will need to continue on Western Blvd to Highway 34 to 53 Street and then back onto West Hills Rd.
    • Bike and pedestrian travel will still be permitted on West Hills Road. Follow the signing for this.
    • School Bus and Fire access will be maintained on West Hills Road. Our contractor will make the necessary accommodations to keep this area accessible to those needs.
  • Once construction has moved beyond this intersection of West Hills Road and Western Blvd, the detour will no longer be in place.

Week of March 24, 2025 – Start of Construction (35th/Western)

  • Work will be occurring on Western Blvd and West Hills Road, between 35th Street and Hanson Street.
  • Contractor will begin mobilization on Monday, March 24th.
  • Work likely will include surveying, saw cutting, and potholing in preparation for waterline installation.
  • Waterline pipe installation in Western and West Hills is tentatively scheduled to begin the week of March 31st, and will start at Hanson and work easterly toward 35th Street.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of March 24th will include;
    • A lane shift on Western. East and west travel on Western and on West Hills will be maintained. We plan to restore all lanes of travel on Western and West Hills by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, the intersection will change to a single lane of travel in each direction. Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
What is a TSAP?

A TSAP is a document that reviews transportation-related crashes involving vehicles, pedestrians, or bicycles to find trends and identify strategies to reduce crashes throughout a city. TSAPs are comprehensive safety plans aimed at reducing and eliminating serious injury and fatal crashes, and use data analysis to characterize roadway safety problems and strengthen a community’s approach through projects and strategies that address the most significant safety risks.

The TSAP developed through this process will serve as a foundation for future transportation safety projects and initiatives, helping the City of Corvallis identify priorities and secure funding to implement solutions over time. It is important to understand that the benefits of the plan will be realized incrementally, and the planning process itself is a critical step. While the adoption of the TSAP is a milestone, it is not an endpoint; successful implementation will depend on available funding and prioritizing efforts to address the most critical safety needs first.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
What is slurry seal?

Slurry seal is a petroleum-based emulsion product mixed with fine aggregate rock to provide a new surface to an existing asphalt street. It slows down aging and significantly reduces vehicle road noise. 

Using slurry in conjunction with a crack seal program provides the most cost-effective method to prevent premature aging. First, sealant is applied to any cracks in the street to prevent water from entering the sub-base and causing further deterioration. Then a layer of slurry is applied. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
What vehicle movements are being restricted at Tyler Avenue and 2nd Street?

All left turns will be prohibited as well as straight through movement on Tyler Avenue. Vehicles will still have the ability to make right turns into, and from, Tyler Avenue.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

Category: Traffic Circles
Why is ODOT providing the speed zone investigation? Does the City have any control?

Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Will a shared e-scooter or bikeshare program be coming to Corvallis?

Oregon State University launched a one-year Shared Micromobility Pilot Project in August 2024. Current City Municipal Code prohibits shared micromobility to be parked in the public right-of-way, including on the sidewalk, in the street, or in a park strip (the space between the street and the sidewalk). Shared micromobility is allowed to travel on City streets, within the service boundary, and to be parked in designated areas on private property.

If you see a shared scooter or bicycle that is parked in the public right-of-way, please report it to hello@veoride.com. Please include the location, vehicle ID number and mention OSU in your email.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I adopt a segment of path that is not identified on the map?

If it is a city-owned paved path, we’ll consider requests. However, if the path is maintained by ODOT, Benton County or a private entity, it is beyond the scope of the City’s program. The City also has an Adopt-A-Park Program facilitated by the Parks & Recreation department that includes unpaved trails. For information about that program, visit: https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/parksrec/page/parks-recreation-volunteer...

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Do I need a license or insurance to operate an e-micromobility device?

No insurance, license or registration is required.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Do the search results include the contents of PDFs and other documents?

Yes.  The website indexes web pages as well as PDFs, Microsoft Office documents, and text documents.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
How large of a bike will fit in the cargo bike locker stalls?

Four of the locker stalls will fit a bicycle up to 87” in length. The locker doors are 45” tall and 30.75” wide.

Category: Bike Lockers
Is it safe?

When the slurry is dry, it is safe. When it is first applied, the slurry is in a liquid form consisting of asphalt and rock. Because liquid asphalt is potentially hazardous to health and is very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings, please keep children from playing near the street until the slurry material dries. Pets should be kept from running free during the slurry application for their safety. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Registering to Vote

To be a registered voter, you must be 18 years of age on the date of the next election, a resident of the State of Oregon (and the City of Corvallis for local measures and candidates), and a citizen of the United States.

If you have not been registered to vote previously in the State, you must file 20 days prior to the next election date. If you have voted previously within the state, you need to check with Benton County Elections and you may be eligible to vote immediately. All prospective voters register with Benton County.

Category: Elections
What is a Home Energy Score?

A Home Energy Score is a report created by a certified home energy assessor that provides information on estimated home energy use, associated costs, and provides options to cost-effectively improve your home’s energy efficiency. Each Home Energy Score is shown on a simple one-to-ten scale, where a ten represents the most efficient homes. See a sample Home Energy Score report here. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Provider?

A person who furnishes temporary overnight lodging is considered a lodging provider. Lodging facilities includes any hotel, motel, inn, condominium, house, cabin, apartment, public or private dormitory, fraternity, sorority, public or private club, space in a mobile home or trailer park, tent camping locations, or similar structures or spaces or portions thereof so occupied; provided such occupancy is for less than a 30-day period.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the Rental Housing Fee?

The Rental Housing Fee was created in 1999 in response to the increasing number of rentals in Corvallis. The fee is used is to improve housing standards through education and assistance.  The objectives  are to: (1) Assist community members in finding the rental related resources; (2) Educate through partnerships and outreach, to increase knowledge about fair housing regulations, Landlord / Tenant law, and the Corvallis Livability; (3) Inform by collecting data to improve the City’s understanding of local rental housing trends.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What makes this traffic circle different than the circle that was removed at 10th Street and Grant Avenue years ago?

10th Street and Grant Avenue are both classified as collector streets with marked vehicle, bike, and parking lanes. Collector streets have higher volumes of vehicles traveling through the intersection compared to the intersection of two local streets, such as 11th Street and Tyler Avenue. This intersection, compared to 10th Street and Grant Avenue, shows roughly 1/6th the amount of vehicle throughput, making a traffic circle an appropriate treatment. Neighborhood traffic circles already exist within our community where two local streets intersect, such as at 11th Street and C Avenue.

Category: Traffic Circles
What speeds are changing?

The speed zone investigation for Circle Boulevard was conducted by ODOT between Kings Boulevard and Harrison Boulevard. Based on the outcome of the investigation, ODOT is requiring several changes to speed limits along this corridor. The existing and new speed limits for this portion of Circle are:

 

Segment

Existing Speed Posting

New Speed Posting

Kings to Lantana

25 / 30 MPH

25 MPH

Lantana to Dale

25 MPH

30 MPH

Dale to Harrison

25 MPH

35 MPH

 

A copy of the ODOT’s Speed Zone Order and Speed Investigation Report can be reviewed by clicking on the links provided. To reiterate, public input is not considered under the law as part of speed investigations and does not affect their outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Where are the bike racks located?

The bike racks are located on the north side of the Public Works compound, at 1245 NE 3rd St.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where can I dispose of unused, unwanted, and/or expired medication?

To find nearby locations visit one of the following websites:

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office also organizes an event every April. Click below for more info. 

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Why are vehicle movements at 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue being restricted?

Tyler Avenue is designated as a Neighborhood Bikeway and is currently being constructed. The intersection of 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue is difficult to cross for people walking and biking due to the street often being used as a cut through for vehicles traveling through town. The installation of a median island will reduce cut through traffic and vehicle volumes on residential streets, as well as provide a safe space for people walking and biking to stop midway through the intersection. It will also reduce conflicts between turning vehicles, creating a safer intersection for all.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why are we using ranked choice voting?

After Benton County’s successful use of ranked choice voting, in 2022 the City adopted the ranked choice voting method for elections for Mayor and City Council races with three or more candidates and for advisory questions.

 

 

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What properties are required to register?

All residential rental properties are required to register. A residential rental property is considered a property with one or more dwelling units that generates rental income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I register and update my rental property information with the City?

Visit www.corvallisoregon.gov/RHPupdate to register or update your rental property information or to request a Section 8 fee waiver. Please note: Failure to register a rental property can result in up to a $1000 fine per rental unit.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Can I reserve a locker in advance or check online for availability?

A reservation feature is not currently available, but you can view the map on the Movatic App to see continually refreshed openings.

Category: Bike Lockers
Can the City prevent changes in the posted speed limit?

The City does not have the ability to change the outcome of the speed zone investigation. ODOT conducted the study per the requirements of state law which considers actual measured speeds when establishing posted speeds. However, in conjunction with ODOT performing the investigation, the City reviewed existing signs and striping on this corridor. The City is planning to implement several changes to coincide with the new speed limit signage in order to mitigate some of the concerns surrounding changes to posted speeds. When the City installs the new speed limit signs, we will also provide the following enhancements:

  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Lantana Drive.
  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Duniway Drive.
  • A new marked crosswalk and pedestrian crossing signs at Dale Drive.
  • New advisory speed signs added to the existing speed bump signage. Advisory speed signs will inform drivers that a speed lower than the legal limit is recommended as vehicles approach the bumps.
  • A new radar speed feedback sign addressing northbound traffic as it transitions from the 35 MPH to the 30 MPH posted speed south of Witham Hill Drive
Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Does my medication need to be in its original container?

No. It can be in a sealed bag.

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I mark my ballot with ranked choice voting?

Voters mark their ballots in order of preference – 1st choice, 2nd choice, 3rd choice.

  • Use blue or black pen.
  • Fill in the ovals next to the candidates of your choice.
  • Make only one choice per column.
  • Do not skip columns.
  • You may rank as few candidates as you would like.
  • You may rank up to three candidates.

Voting instructions from Benton County.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How is a Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) different from a Transportation System Plan (TSP)?

A Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) and a Transportation System Plan (TSP) work together to improve how people get around safely and efficiently. The TSP sets broad safety priorities within the context of the overall transportation system—like roads, sidewalks, and bike paths—planning for growth and future needs. The TSAP builds on these priorities by diving deeper into safety issues, using data-driven methods and different metrics to identify safety problems and recommend targeted solutions. By focusing on crash prevention and reducing serious injuries or fatalities, the TSAP complements the TSP to ensure a comprehensive approach to transportation safety. Together, they create a safer and more effective system for everyone.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
If I search for a phrase (e.g. alarm permit), will the results only show exact matches?

No.  By default, the search results will show matches for any word within the phrase.  In this example, you would receive results for all web pages and documents that contained either the word alarm or the word permit or both.

In order to search on an exact phrase, enclose your search phrase in quotations.  The search results for "alarm permit" will show matches for that exact phrase.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Initiative and Referendum Information

The initiative process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 15% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is generally initiated by citizens. Examples include the measure to allow smoking in bars, the recall of an elected City official or a Charter amendment.

The referendum process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 10% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is used to refer legislation adopted by the governing body to a direct vote. Corvallis City Charter, Chapter 6, Section 32  

Initiatives and referenda are only permitted in May and November elections. House Bill 2957, passed at the 2015 Regular Session

Category: Elections
Is there a Rental Housing fee?

Yes. An annual fee is assessed for each rental unit based on Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065. The fee increases by one dollar every odd year. Property owners who receive partial or full payment through a Section 8 voucher may request a fee waiver.

The fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What are the benefits of a Home Energy Score?

A home energy score is an informational tool that provides potential home buyers with knowledge about how energy efficient a home is. Unlike getting a sample utility bill for that home, which measures individual behavior as much as efficiency, a home energy score more accurately represents how much energy will be lost or retained when a resident heats or cools the home.  There is also research that suggests that mandatory energy usage disclosure policies incentivize homeowners to invest in energy efficiency upgrades in their homes. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Intermediary?

A lodging intermediary is a person, other than a provider, that facilitates the retail sale and charges for the occupancy of short term lodging. Lodging intermediaries include, but are not limited to, online travel companies, travel agents, and tour outfitter companies (such as Airbnb or Expedia). 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the purpose of a traffic circle?

Traffic circles are effective at reducing crashes at intersections because there are fewer conflict points. They also reduce speeds at the intersection and multiple traffic circles can help reduce speeds along an entire corridor.

Category: Traffic Circles
What Lodging Intermediaries are registered with the City?
  • AIRBNB, INC
  • EGENCIA, LLC
  • FERNWOOD CIRCLE
  • HOTEL TONIGHT
  • HOTELS.COM, LP
  • HOTWIRE, INC
  • NAT COR HOUSING
  • ORBITZ, LLC
  • PRICELINE.COM
  • TRAVELSCAPE, LLC
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
When can I pickup/return the racks?

The Public Works compound is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Borrowers can pick up and return racks only during open hours.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where and when can I pick up equipment?

Equipment can be picked up from the Public Works admin office, at 1245 NE 3rd St, Monday - Friday, between 8 am and 5 pm. Pickup should be arranged ahead of time with the Program Coordinator.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Who is required to get a Home Energy Score?

As currently proposed, if your home is within the Corvallis city limits and you are publicly listing or advertising your home for sale in any manner, you will need to get a Home Energy Score and Report before listing it. Common ways people advertise a home for sale include online listings, posters, yard signs and ads in print publications. Some homeowners are exempted from getting a Home Energy Score. Please see below for examples of exemptions. 

If you are selling your home privately between two parties and the home is never publicly advertised for sale, then the requirements do NOT apply.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for paying the lodging tax?

For the privilege of occupancy in any lodging, the occupant shall pay the Lodging Tax.

The Lodging Tax Collector shall remit the Lodging Tax for the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and State of Oregon to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will access to my street be affected?

During the slurry seal application, access to your street will be interrupted for a maximum of ten (10) hours — for one day only — unless the contractor is delayed due to equipment failure or rainy conditions. You may not park or drive on the street from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The post office, garbage service, and 911 emergency dispatch will be notified before work begins. We do not expect any interruption of mail delivery, garbage collection or emergency services. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will there be any impacts to parking?

One parking stall will be removed at the southwest corner of 4th Street and Harrison Boulevard. This vehicle space is part of a realignment of the street with the removal of the concrete bulb out and trees, providing a straight path for automobiles traveling along Harrison Boulevard. No other parking along Harrison Boulevard will be affected. Work on Tyler Avenue is limited to the corners of the intersections, where parking is already prohibited.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Is the Rental Housing Program fee pro-rated?

The RHP fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full RHP fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Are the existing speed bumps being removed?

No. The existing speed bumps will remain in place and advisory speed signs will be added informing drivers that a lower speed is recommended around speed bumps compared to the new overall posted speed.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Are there any incentive programs for buying an e-micromobility device?

There are currently no incentives available for electric mobility devices open in Corvallis/Benton County. However, there are funds available for other neighboring communities and states. Keep apprised of the revolving door of funding by finding a website that tracks this information. We like this one from RideReview. 

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I exclude a word from a search (e.g. all pages that have the word "alarm" but not the word "permit"?

Yes.   You can exclude words by using the minus sign (-).   In order to find the results of all pages that have alarm in the result but not permit, you would search for alarm -permit.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Does my vote still count if I rank only one or only two candidates?

Yes, your vote will still count if you rank only one or only two candidates. However, your ballot has more power if you rank all three choices. If you choose not to, your ranked vote may not be counted in later rounds if your top candidate(s) are eliminated and the lower choice position(s) are left blank.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I dispose of medicine discretely?

You may mark out your name or any other identifiable information

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I transport the racks by bike?

Step 1: Place one of the base racks with a coupler onto the bike trailer, making sure that the rack is centered. Stack up to 3 additional racks (without couplers) on top.

Step 2: Affix the hitch to a rear bike rack. The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team can provide hitches upon request.

Step 3: Attach the coupler to the hitch.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a bicycle or motor vehicle?
  1. Slow your speed as you approach the intersection. 15mph is ideal.
  2. Stop in advance of the sidewalk if pedestrians are crossing.
  3. Yield to vehicles that arrive first at the intersection.
    Yield to vehicles on the right if arriving at the same time.
  4. Keep to the right and travel around the traffic circle in a counterclockwise direction.

Traffic circle navigation

Category: Traffic Circles
Political Action Committees

Political Action Committees (PACs) are formed for both candidates and measures; they can be either in support of or opposition to the candidate or measure. PACs must be formed and registered with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division before any contributions are accepted or monies expended.  Once the election is over and all monies are accounted for, PACs should be discontinued. Please visit the Secretary of State Political Action Committee page for more information.

Category: Elections
What can I do to reduce my exposure to PFAS? 

Small changes can reduce you and your family’s exposure to PFAS chemicals. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to PFAS, but there are ways to limit it. For example: avoid re-heating foods in fast food packaging and take-out containers; look for take-out food packaging that is certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI); replace non-stick cookware with alternatives that don’t contain PFAS; look for “PFAS-Free” when buying waterproof or stain-resistant items, and dental floss, cosmetics, or other personal care products; and choose household cleaning product with EPA Safer Choice, UL Eco-Logo, or Green Seal labels. 

Category: PFAS
What equipment is available for checkout?
  • Reflective vest (10)
  • Trash grabbers (11)
  • Work gloves (5)
  • Limb loppers (3)
  • Pruners (2)
  • Rakes (2)
  • Shovel (1)
  • Standard Broom (1)
  • Push Broom (1)
Category: Adopt-A-Path
What items can I leave in a bike locker?

In addition to your bike, you can store gear like a helmet, bags, bike tools, bike clothing and shoes. 

Category: Bike Lockers
What rental units are subject to the RHP annual fee?

Any residential rental unit within Corvallis city limits is subject to the fee. There are two exemptions, a landlord may request a fee waiver if they accept Section 8 (staff confirms this before the fee is waived) or if the rental unit has a deed restriction that requires the unit to be rented to low income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What would a Home Energy Score Ordinance mean for homeowners in Corvallis?

A Home Energy Score Ordinance would require homeowners to get a home energy score from a certified home energy assessor before selling their home, if the home is going to be publicly advertised for sale.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for collecting the lodging tax?

Transient lodging providers and transient lodging intermediaries must collect and remit the tax. Under the law, whoever collects payment for occupancy is responsible for collecting and remitting the tax as the Lodging Tax Collector.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water will damage both the appearance and sealing capabilities of the slurry. Please refrain from watering lawns, washing cars, or engaging in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day your street is slurry-sealed.

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will street trees be removed as part of this project?

Yes. A total of 13 existing street trees will be removed along the north side of Harrison and corners of 3rd and 4th streets. All other trees within the project limit will be protected. The City of Corvallis has collaborated with the ODOT project team, and landscape architect, to mitigate the removal of the trees with project landscaping and tree replacement with 13, Red Rage Tupelo trees. 

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Are there any prohibited medicines?

Yes. These items are prohibited:

  • No sharps
  • No illicit drugs
  • No herbal remedies
  • No vitamins or supplements
  • No personal care products
  • No medical devices
  • No batteries
  • No mercury-containing thermometers
  • No pet pesticide products
  • No animal medicines
  • No biologics
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Campaign Finance

Political Action Committees (PACs) file contribution and expense reports with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division on an established schedule. 

If candidates act as their own Treasurers and expect to spend or receive less than $750 during the entire calendar year, reports do not need to be filed. If candidates subsequently exceed that amount, reports do need to be filed.

Please visit the Secretary of State Campaign Finance page and review the Campaign Finance Quick Guide for instructions and a schedule of filing deadlines.

Category: Elections
Does my vote count if I vote for the same candidate three times?

Yes, your vote will still count, but it will not help your candidate's chances of winning. If a single candidate is selected for all three choices, it will be tallied as if you only ranked a first-choice candidate.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How far off of the path am I responsible for?

You are responsible for cleaning up the 3 feet adjacent to the path. No trespassing on private property is allowed.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
How is the TSAP funded?

The TSAP is primarily funded through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) federal grant program, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Corvallis was awarded $664,000 for this initiative with the City contributing a required match of $110,000 plus $56,000 in in-kind support. This will build off of the strong foundation set in the 2019 TSP planning effort. This alignment with past planning efforts creates a unique opportunity for Corvallis to fill existing safety related gaps and advance the City’s transportation safety objectives through a data-driven, equity-oriented approach.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a pedestrian?
  • Watch for incoming vehicles.
  • Wait until traffic yields to you when crossing.
  • Do not cross to the middle of the circle.
Category: Traffic Circles
What are the dimensions of the racks?

Length: 10’, Width: 44”, Height: 36”

Weight: 65 pounds

A minimum of 4 feet of space between the racks is recommended for comfortable maneuvering of bicycles.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
What can I do to reduce my exposure to phthalates?

Small changes at home can reduce your exposure to phthalates. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to phthalates, but you can try to reduce it. For example: microwave and store foods and liquids in glass containers. Avoid plastic food containers and plastic wrap with the Recycling Label #3 on it. Steer clear of the words “fragrance,” “perfume,” or “parfum” in their ingredients. Seek out phthalate-free cosmetics found in the Skin Deep® product clearinghouse. Look for products with EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, and Eco Logo certification labels that are phthalate-free. These are safer choices!

Category: PFAS
What happens if I exceed the maximum rental time on the locker?

If you exceed the maximum rental time of 7 days, the rental automatically ends and the door is locked (with everything inside). In order to retrieve your bike and any items in the locker, you will need to contact us.

Category: Bike Lockers
What if my home gets a low score?

That's fine. A Home Energy Score is simply an informational tool for property owners. There is no "passing" or "failing" a home energy score and there are no requirements that go along with a score. Your report will show you or any future property owners where there are opportunities for increased energy efficiency. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is the definition of a "rental unit"?

The term “unit” is the equivalent to the number of individual leases held by a tenant or tenants. For example, if a five bedroom house is rented on a single agreement, it is one unit. If the same house is rented on 5 separate agreements, it is five units.  

Category: Rental Housing Program
What is the expected completion date?

The project will go through summer 2025.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
When will the new speed zone signage and enhancements be installed?

The work will be completed later this year as weather and staffing allow.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What else can you do?
  • Only buy enough medication that you can use before it expires.
  • If you know a friend who uses the same over-the-counter medication, consider combining purchases.
  • Ask your pharmacist if the drugs will become dangerous after expiration. Some drugs lose some potency, but can still provide some benefits.
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Can I give multiple candidates the same ranking?

No. If multiple candidates are chosen for the same ranking, the voter’s intent cannot be determined, and the ballot will not be considered.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Can I rent a locker without a smartphone?

Unfortunately, there is no way to rent a locker without a smartphone.

Category: Bike Lockers
City of Corvallis Campaign Sign Regulations

Political signs shall be erected and maintained entirely on private property with the consent of the occupant of the premises.

No signs are permitted on public property, including rights-of-way, streets, boulevards, bridges, rights-of-way to bridges and streets, medians, parks, planting strips in front of parks, and any other public property.

The area between the sidewalk and the street is not private property; it is a public right-of-way and signs are not allowed.

Political signs shall not be erected prior to 60 days from the applicable election and shall be removed within 15 days after the election.

Corvallis Land Development Code Sections 4.7.50 and 4.7.70

Category: Elections
How do I learn if racial restrictive covenants appear in my property's deed and CCRs?

The documents you signed when you purchased your home will include the deed and CCRs. A close review of these documents will reveal whether racial restrictive covenants were applied to your property. Note that the restrictions are often embedded and may be limited to a single sentence or short paragraph.  

If you are not able to locate the documents, you can obtain a copy of the deed from the Benton County Records & Election Department or by contacting a title company. A fee may apply.

Benton County Records & Election Department

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
How do I signal at a traffic circle?

A traffic circle is similar to an intersection with signals in which you need to signal the direction in which you are going to take. When turning right, you need to signal right, when going straight you do not signal, and when turning left or doing a U-turn you signal left. Whenever you exit a traffic circle you need to signal right to show you are exiting. Cyclists should use hand signals.

Category: Traffic Circles
If my home receives a low score, will it be harder to sell?

Low Home Energy Scores won't necessarily impact your ability to sell your home. Energy performance is just one of many factors people consider when buying a home. The information from a score helps both a seller and buyer understand the opportunities to improve energy efficiency and lower utility costs. It also allows potential buyers to understand how much monthly utility costs will be.

Category: Home Energy Score
Only 6 PFAS are required to be tested in drinking water according to the EPA. What about the others?

It should be noted that testing for PFAS compounds is currently limited. The City is testing for 29 PFAS compounds, including the six  compounds that the EPA is going to be regulating in drinking water.  The City is monitoring advancements in laboratory capabilities and will expand its PFAS compound testing as the industry shifts with improved analysis methodologies over time.

Category: PFAS
What about future speed zone investigations?

The City of Corvallis has been awarded a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant from the State of Oregon.  In addition to developing a transportation safety action plan, this funding will be used to produce a speed limit investigation framework.  This framework will include guidance and criteria that will be used by the City to guide future requests to ODOT for speed zone investigations.  One likely candidate is the Circle Boulevard corridor extending east of Kings where it is anticipated that a study may result in a reduction in the posted speed limit consistent with the reduction being implemented west of Kings.   

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What do I do with the trash that is collected?

If it is a large amount of trash, you can arrange a pickup by City staff and place the bagged trash by the side of the path at a designated location. Otherwise, please bring the trash bags back to Public Works at the time of your equipment return.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
What is the amount of the tax?

In the City of Corvallis, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 9 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.

In Benton County, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 3 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.  For Benton County, there is an administrative fee reimbursement of 5 percent of the tax due.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the mechanism that allows the City to charge a fee for rental properties?

The Rental Housing fee is established in Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065.  The code states the annual fee will increase by $1 every odd numbered year. 

Category: Rental Housing Program
Does anyone qualify for an exemption from a Home Energy Score requirement?

As currently proposed, under some circumstances, a homeowner may qualify for an exemption from the Home Energy Score requirement. As a reminder, the Corvallis Home Energy Score ordinance is still a draft and has not been finalized. The following are examples of exemptions in the proposed ordinance. This may not be the full or final list. Some exemptions may be applicable for properties sold under the following circumstances:

  • Transfer of title due to inheritance
  • Involuntary transfer of title resulting from default on an obligation secured by real property 
  • Title change due to marriage or divorce
  • Condemnation of the property
  • Other involuntary changes of title 
  • Certain situations of undue hardship for the seller
Category: Home Energy Score
How do I appeal my RHP late penalty fee?

Residential rental properties within the City of Corvallis are assessed an annual Rental Housing fee. The fee is assessed on a per unit basis. Account balances that become 91 days old and 61 days past due are considered delinquent and are assessed a penalty fee of $100 per unit.

A property owner may appeal the penalty fee. Appeals are considered on a case-by-case basis. To appeal the penalty fee, please follow the directions below:

  • If your total statement is $400 or less, contact the City Finance Department by phone (541-766-6990) or by email.
  • If your total statement is $401 or more, submit your request to Housing and Neighborhood Services (HNS) Division here. A

  

 

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I vote for a write-in candidate?

You may use the Write-In space to enter a candidate’s name that is not on the ballot and fill in an oval to rank your choice.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How often does the City of Corvallis test for PFAS?

Water systems have five years to comply with the EPA rule (see EPA Rule FAQ). The City of Corvallis does the following:  

  • Drinking water: The City of Corvallis did voluntary PFAS and phthalates testing in drinking water twice in 2023 and will continue to test twice a year in 2024. PFAS and phthalates have not been detected in Corvallis drinking water. The official PFAS and phthalates tests required by the EPA will occur sometime in the Fall of 2024.

 

  • Wastewater: The City tested wastewater for PFAS and phthalates four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024. The City also tested biosolids from the wastewater treatment plant four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024, to further investigate sources and levels PFAS.
Category: PFAS
What charges and fees are taxable?

Gross lodging receipts are all amounts received, including all non-optional fees, other than taxes that are paid for lodging in Oregon. Rent includes all fees and assessments based on the number of occupants, human and pets (including but not limited to cleaning, pet, or smoking fees) for which payment is not optional to the occupant. If the operator offers a lodging package that includes something that is not associated with the actual lodging or is provided by a third party, the rent is the price of the package less the cost of the non-lodging portion of the package.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What happens if an emergency vehicle comes through the traffic circle?

Do not stop inside the traffic circle. If you have not yet entered the traffic circle, pull to the right and let the emergency vehicles pass you. If you are in the traffic circle, exit as normal, then pull to the right and let the emergency vehicle pass you.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the process to remove discriminatory restrictions?

The laws passed in 2018 aim to ease the removal of discriminatory restrictions from property records.  Requests are submitted to the State's area Circuit Court using the procedure detailed in ORS 93.274. Efforts are underway to refine this process and our website will be updated as information becomes available. Please note this is not a City process. All inquiries should be directed to the Benton County Circuit Court.

Benton County Circuit Court

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
Are all cleaning fees taxable?

It depends on the nature of the charge. If the fee is non-refundable, it is part of what the guest pays for occupancy and is therefore subject to Lodging Tax. Conversely, if the cleaning fee is fully refundable or withheld only for specific damages, it is not subject to Lodging Tax..

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I slow traffic in my neighborhood?

It Starts with You

  • Set the pace! Drive the speed limit. A National Highway Safety Council survey found 70% of drivers acknowledge they speed themselves.
  • Utilize on-street parking. A narrow street can slow traffic. However, when possible please also be mindful of moving your vehicle on scheduled street sweeping days for your area. Learn more about sweeping here.
  • If you have a neighborhood or homeowner’s association (HOA) ask them to include slow speed reminders in your neighborhood newsletters.
  • Allow more time for travel. Accidents happen at any speed, but injuries and damage are more significant at speeds over 25 mph.
  • Directed Patrol for targeted enforcement may be requested from Police here. However, please keep in mind that the ability for Police to respond is dependent on staffing and many other competing needs to keep the community safe. 

Signs and enforcement can only do so much to influence driver behavior. The most effective speed control is a safety conscious culture.

 

Category: Traffic Engineering
I can't afford to pay for an inspection. What do I do?

The City does not want to place undue financial hardship on lower income homeowners. Addressing this is a top priority for staff and Council. City staff is exploring ways to assist lower income home owners obtain a Home Energy Score. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I make a mistake?

If you make a mistake in marking your ballot, place an X over the mismarked oval and fill in the oval of your preferred choice and circle that oval.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What is the new EPA rule?

The new EPA rule—the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR)--establishes   legally enforceable levels for six PFAS known to occur individually and/or as mixtures in drinking water. EPA will regulate five PFAS as individually. They are PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA. EPA will regulate four PFAS as a mixture: PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS. PFAS can often be found together and in varying combinations as mixtures. Decades of research show mixtures of different chemicals can have additive health effects, even if the individual chemicals are each present at lower levels. With this rule, EPA has set limits for these chemicals individually and/or as mixtures. See the following FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information.

Category: PFAS
Will a large truck fit?

Yes, the apron of the traffic circle is built with a height so that it can be driven over if need be. It should be done very slowly to prevent damage to the vehicle.

Category: Traffic Circles
How can the speed limit be changed on a street?

In Oregon, speed limits are set by and changed through specific procedures defined in state laws and regulations. The primary consideration of this process is the measured speeds of drivers on the street currently. This means that sometimes if a street is studied, the process may actually result in a higher speed limit being posted. The City may occasionally request review of speed limits through the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), however the process can take upwards of six months or more for a determination on whether or not any speed changes may occur. Information about the speed setting process in Oregon is available here.

Recent changes in state law now allow some cities in Oregon to complete speed studies themselves, subject to State oversight. However, the same statewide rules and regulations must be followed. Due to staff workloads and the time-consuming nature of speed studies, this is not something Corvallis plans to take on in the near future and will therefore continue to work with ODOT when considering speed limit evaluations.

At this time, before forwarding a request for a speed study to ODOT or not, the City considers the context of the street, recent speed data if available, changes to the street that may have an effect on speeds, law enforcement support, and the likelihood of the speed changing through the study process.

Category: Traffic Engineering
I am planning on selling my home soon. If the ordinance passes, what will I need to do?

If the Home Energy Score passes, it will likely not go into effect until early 2023. In the meantime, the City will work with our partners at Earth Advantage to train home energy assessors in the Corvallis area. If you are planning on selling your home after the ordinance goes into effect, you would need to schedule an appointment with a home energy assessor to obtain a home energy score report. Once that is done, you will need to provide that report to any listing agent or service you use to advertise your home. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I damage or lose my ballot?

Contact the Benton County Elections Office for a replacement ballot.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I request traffic calming such as speed bumps or radar speed feedback signs?

The City has adopted a policy and procedure for considering requests for neighborhood traffic calming. You can read more about the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP) here. Requests are only considered for local, residential streets, as traffic calming through the NTCP is not allowed on arterial and collector streets to minimize disruptions to emergency services and transit routes. While there may be past traffic calming that was installed on some of these main streets, new installations are not allowed.

The neighborhood traffic calming program and procedures require broad support from the residents along the subject street and any improvements must be paid for by the adjacent properties. Currently, the City does not have a budget for installing traffic calming on streets by request without neighborhood financial support.

Permanent radar speed feedback sign installations have been used in Corvallis at a small amount of locations, typically at or near school speed zones thanks to special funding from the State or school district. Additional radar speed feedback signs may be installed on arterial and collector streets where speed limits drop, mostly when entering into the City. These devices can have significant ongoing maintenance needs and be costly to replace if struck, vandalized, or they fail. The Police Department has a small amount of portable speed radar feedback signs, however their ability move these around frequently and widely in response to traffic concerns is limited due to staffing and upkeep.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How will my ballot be counted?

The Benton County Election Office will tally ballots in accordance with the County and City’s ranked choice voting rules for implementation. A detailed description of the tallying process can be found on the Benton County’s Benton Better Ballot site.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Is this another government fee or tax on Corvallis property owners?

No. The fee collected by the home energy assessor goes directly to the assessor, with the exception of a $35 flat fee that goes to Earth Advantage to support assessor training, marketing, and administration of Home Energy Score policies across the state.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about snow or general debris removal?

Generally, there are no problems with snow or debris removal in traffic circle.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the City of Corvallis doing to address PFAS and phthalate in wastewater and biosolids?

The City is looking at different sources of PFAS in wastewater, including our industrial customers. The City is also working with biosolids researchers at OSU and professional groups in the Northwest and is engaged in regional and statewide efforts to increase knowledge about PFAS risks and how to minimize those risks. The City is also sharing information about PFAS so the public can make educated choices.

Category: PFAS
What lodging facilities are exempt from the tax?
  • Health care facilities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and residential care facilities that are licensed, registered, or certified by Oregon Department of Human Services.
  • Drug or alcohol abuse treatment facilities and mental health treatment facilities.
  • Facilities with less than 30 days of rentals in a calendar year.  The exemption granted under this subsection does not apply to a dwelling unit that is rented out as a lodging using a lodging intermediary platform of any kind.    
  • Any Facility whose rent is collected for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter, with a voucher bearing the seal of the City of Corvallis, issued by a tax-exempt, non-profit charitable organization, as defined by the Oregon Department of revenue.  
  • Nonprofit youth or church camps, nonprofit conference centers, and qualifying nonprofit facilities.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business.
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
  • Non-profit charitable organizations for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter.  See the City of Corvallis code 8.04.050.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I get a certain sign, pavement markings like a crosswalk, or flashing beacon for crossing installed?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Many transportation-related items reported to the City come in the form of a suggested or requested treatment. Staff will investigate and determine if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed and if the suggested or requested treatment is appropriate. If staff does find an issue, and believes it may warrant addressing, we may agree with the treatment proposed (if there was one) or choose a different one utilizing our best judgment. Issues needing to be addressed will have to compete with existing priorities, including staff time and budget. We have a limited range of tools within our annual budget. Examples of more easy improvements to implement include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. However, please know that if the reported issue or request would require installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have this type of un-budgeted funding readily available. These kinds of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval. You can learn more about the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) here.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How do I determine if my short-term guest is exempt from the LRT?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
Category: Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
So why is the City interested in a Home Energy Score ordinance?

As part of its commitment to mitigating climate change and curbing emissions, the City sees this as an opportunity for community members to better understand their energy usage and to increase energy efficiency in the built environment in our community. The implementation of a home energy performance rating is an objective in both the City's Climate Action Plan (page 12), adopted in 2016, and the City's 2022-2026 Strategic Operational Plan (page 13). If the ordinance passes, Corvallis would be the fourth municipality in Oregon to require a Home Energy Score, following Portland, Milwaukie, and Hillsboro. 

Category: Home Energy Score
I still have questions about this proposed policy.

That's understandable! Please contact Kathryn Duvall at (541) 766-6423 or kathryn.duvall@corvallisoregon.gov.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about home water filtration? Does that remove PFAS?

PFAS have NOT been detected in Corvallis drinking water. According to the EPA, a home filter could be an effective way to reduce PFAS levels (EPA filter factsheet). Many water pitcher filters and other home-based water filters are able to reduce the levels of PFAS in drinking water. If you decide to use a filter, look for ones that are certified to reduce PFAS. Be aware that current filters on the market will not yet be certified to reduce PFAS to the new EPA standard, but the added filtration they provide can help reduce your exposure. It's important to note that the current certification standards for PFAS filters (as of April 2024) do not yet indicate that a filter will remove PFAS down to the levels EPA has now set for a drinking water standard.

 

Category: PFAS
When is lodging tax due?

Lodging Tax Collectors must submit a Lodging Tax Return Form and related payment no later than the last day of the month following the end of the tax period. 

The City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes should all be filed with the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Due dates for filing returns and making payments
Period (quarter) Period end date Due date
Jan-Feb-Mar March 31 April 30
Apr-May-Jun June 30 July 31
July-Aug-Sep September 30 October 31
Oct-Nov-Dec December 31 January 31
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will the railroad crossing on 11th Street be upgraded to concrete similar to the crossing at Adams?

When we analyze a span of road to implement a Neighborhood Bikeway, we look carefully at every element. Railroad crossings are no exception. We are aware that the condition of these crossings can pose a challenge for some street users. Although improvements may appear straightforward on the surface, crossings are actually located within railroad-owned land and require complex coordination, negotiation, approval, and agreements with the railroad and the State who regulates rail crossings. This makes the process very difficult, time consuming and quite expensive. So expensive, in fact, that the cost of crossing improvements alone can quickly surpass the budget for the entire project.

Due to the complexity of parties involved, high costs, and the desire to still advance other beneficial elements of the Neighborhood Bikeway network, we have elected to remove railroad crossings reconstruction from the current project phase. This does not preclude a later effort to attempt to tackle this complex work here and elsewhere.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I boil PFAS out of my water?

No. These chemicals cannot be removed by heating or boiling water. See FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. 

 

Category: PFAS
What is the penalty for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay a penalty. The penalty will be imposed in the same manner and the amount provided under ORS 314.400. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will speed humps have channels cut in them so bicycles can ride through them?

Currently, we do not have any speed humps on Neighborhood Bikeways that have channels cut to accommodate for bicyclist and/or vehicles with larger axles, such as emergency vehicles.

While a good idea in theory, we have found that there are two main issues. When bikes and vehicles are sharing the road on local streets, and both a vehicle and bike arrive simultaneously at a speed hump, bikes may be squeezed out of their path of travel by vehicles so vehicles can drive through the channel too. This is when a chain of events can occur. While being closely passed, the rider is forced to move quickly and into crossing the speed hump gap at an angle, which could result in a crash due to the abrupt edges and elevation.

From a maintenance perspective, speed humps with channels are a challenge. The gap accumulates debris such as leaves in the fall, gravel in the winter, and other debris throughout the year. It is simply not possible to remove this material from this gap with our street sweepers. Eventually, it must be manually removed, which is time consuming from an automation standpoint. Since local streets are not swept as frequently as arterials and collectors, this will likely lead to frustration for cyclists.

We will continue to monitor and internally evaluate this topic but at the current time, there is no plan to change the current design of speed humps to accommodate channels.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What if I get water from a well, instead of the City of Corvallis drinking water?

The quality and safety of drinking water from wells that service fewer than 25 persons, such as most household wells, are not regulated by the federal government under the Safe Drinking Water Act nor by many state governments and laws. Furthermore, the City does not have groundwater quality information and does not monitor or regulate drinking water wells.

Private well owners are responsible for assuring safe drinking water for their households. See this FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. If you want to test your well water, visit the Benton County OSU Extension Service’s Water Tests webpage for more information.

Category: PFAS
What is the interest fee for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay interest.  Interest will be added to the overall tax amount due at the same rate established under ORS 305.220 for each month, or fraction of a month, from the time the return to the Tax Administrator was originally required to be filed to the time of the payment.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is a part per trillion? How much is that?

Parts per trillion is a unit of measure. It is a very tiny amount. For perspective, one part per trillion is the equivalent of four grains of sugar in an Olympic sized swimming pool (From EPA Factsheet).  

Category: PFAS
How do I remit my lodging tax payment?

For instructions on how to file the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes, see the filing instructions here. https://www.oregon.gov/dor/forms/FormsPubs/publication-or-olt-ol_604-006.pdf

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How do I obtain approval for a vacation rental?

Approval for property zoning must be obtained from the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development Departments.

The City has received several inquiries from property owners interested in establishing short-term (vacation) rentals. Renting out an entire home for a short-term stay of less than 30 days, with no owner present, is classified in Chapter 3.0 of the City’s Land Development Code (LDC) as a Lodging Service use type. Lodging Services are permitted in a variety of commercial zones, however, they are not permitted within residential zoning districts. Property owners that would like to rent out rooms within their home may qualify as a Home Business. Home Businesses are permitted as accessory uses in a majority of the City’s residential zoning districts. Under the definition of Home Business in the LDC,“…Bed and Breakfast businesses that rent up to two bedrooms within owner occupied dwellings are considered to be Home Businesses and are an allowed use….”

 

City of Corvallis

Development Services

https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/ds

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

Benton County

Community Development

https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax/page/start-short-term-rental

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
I use Airbnb for a vacation rental. Am I required to report lodging taxes?

If you rent space exclusively through Airbnb, then you are only required to register with the Lodging Tax program. You are not required to collect and remit payment. Airbnb as the lodging intermediary for your reservations should collect and remit the lodging taxes on your behalf. 

If you rent space and collect payment from lodging customers directly, then you are required to both register with the City of Corvallis and to remit Lodging Taxes on those collections to the Oregon Department of Revenue. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Does City of Corvallis offer a Lodging Tax Collector reimbursement/administrative fee?

No, the City of Corvallis has a ‘Grandfathered lodging tax'. Local governments that imposed a lodging tax prior to January 1, 2001 are not required to offer a reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax (also known as an Administrative Fee).

Conversely, Benton County has a ‘New lodging tax’. Local governments that imposed a new lodging tax on or after January 1, 2001 must allow collectors to retain a minimum of 5 percent of all collected tax revenues as reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is HB2656 and when did it take effect?

In 2013, the Oregon Legislature enacted Oregon House Bill 2656, which made two important changes to the state law on transient lodging tax. First, the tax must be paid on the full retail price of a room, including any charges added to the price. Second, transient lodging intermediaries, or “online travel companies” that take payment for the rooms they book must remit the tax directly to the state and local jurisdictions on those transactions, rather than forwarding that payment to the hotel or owner. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How are lodging taxes used by the City?

Lodging taxes may be used for visitor information center(s), convention promotion and support, the administration of the lodging tax program and any other municipal purpose.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Is lodging tax in the Corvallis Municipal Code?

Yes, please see Chapter 8.04 - LODGING TAX. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Who can I contact for more information?

Questions related to filing and remitting taxes should be directed to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Questions related to registration should be directed to the City of Corvallis Finance department.

Questions related to property zoning should be directed to the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development departments.

 

State of Oregon City of Corvallis Benton County

Department of Revenue

(503) 378-4988

questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov

www.oregon.gov/dor

Finance | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6729 ext. 5138

transient.roomtax@corvallisoregon.gov

Community Development | Benton County

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us
 

Development Services | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the Benton County lodging tax?

Please visit Benton County Lodging Tax and Permits https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the State lodging tax?

Please visit Oregon Department of Revenue https://www.oregon.gov/DOR/programs/businesses/Pages/lodging.aspx

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What do I do if the equipment needs maintenance?

If the bike trailer(s) need emergency maintenance, the City has an agreement with Spicy Pedals and Corvallis Cyclery. You may take the trailer(s) to either of these locations and have the work performed and billed to Josh Capps at the City of Corvallis. Please notify Josh Capps at 541-766-6916 or josh.capps@corvallisoregon.gov of the situation that occurred and that maintenance was needed. The City is unable to do personal reimbursements.

Category: Portable Bike Racks

NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge

View this project in the Capital Improvement Program document here.
 
Schedule: TBD
 
For more information, contact: 

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle?

Anyone under 16 years of age must wear a helmet unless it violates a religious belief. ORS 814.485

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are bicycle riders required to have lights?

Yes. After dark and during limited visibility conditions, a cyclist must have a white light in front and a red light or red reflector in the rear. This also applies when riding on sidewalks. ORS 815.280

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are racial restrictions enforceable?

No.

Racial restrictive covenants have been unenforceable since 1948 based on the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and illegal since 1968. The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits the enforcement of racial restrictions.

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
But we get so much rain in the Willamette Valley... water conservation isn't really that important, here is it?

In the summer, water usage increases most with single family residential customers. A single family residential customer is equal to an average of 2.38 people per household. As a comparison, a single family residential customer uses approximately 234 gallons per day during the winter months. During the summer, a single family residential customer uses approximately 341 gallons per day. That is an increase of 46%! 

As you can image, this adds up to a lot of water use in the summer. In Corvallis, we have less rainfall during the summer months than Houston, Texas! Although, we have not experienced a substantial drought condition in recent years, it could very well happen if customer demand for water during the hot, dry summer months exceeds the treatment plants' capacity. In such a situation, customers may be asked to voluntarily reduce their water use on a temporary basis until drought conditions subside. 

Category: Water Conservation
Can I change my initial court date?

It is possible to change your initial court date. You must contact the court office to make arrangements.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I change my trial date?

To get a trial date changed you must write a letter to the Judge requesting a continuance and the reasons why. Your letter must be received in the Court office within 10 days of receiving your trial notice. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I get a copy of my case?

Yes. You need to go to or call the City Attorney's Office at 456 SW Monroe Avenue, Suite 101, Corvallis, Oregon 97333 and request a copy of the police report. This is known as "Discovery" and there is a $20.00 fee. Please call the City Attorney's Office at (541) 766-6906 for more information.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Can I have a court appointed attorney?

You may request a court appointed attorney at your arraignment date. Keep in mind, however, that only misdemeanor charges qualify. You will be required to fill out an affidavit that states your financial status. The court will then decide if you qualify. 

Category: Municipal Court
Can I speak to the Judge in private?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can I talk to the Judge in person or by telephone?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can the Clerk at the counter take my pleas or reduce my fine?

The Municipal Court does offer a violations Bureau in traffic cases for non-moving violations. You must contact the court to see if your citation would qualify to be handled by the clerk.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Compensation - How are City employees contributing to the City’s financial situation?

Exempt employees (primarily managers and supervisors) have foregone cost of living increases from FY 08-09 through FY 14-15, and together with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), have moved to a single lower cost high deductible health care plan effective January 2015. The Corvallis Regional Communications Center Association (CRCCA) and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) both followed suit in January 2016. Via the bargaining process, members of the Corvallis Police Officers Association (CPOA) agreed to change from a 10-hour work shift to a more efficient 12-hour work shift. The 12-hour work schedule distributes existing staffing numbers across four shifts instead of six shifts under the 10-hour schedule. This provides more officers per each work shift, which enhances officer safety and prevents significant operational overtime expenditures. Additionally, CPOA has gone to the least expensive, composite rate health plan option available to that unit through the Teamsters Trust, which is considerably less costly than what is provided to other units, since they unfortunately cannot avail themselves of the same insurance option. Members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) agreed to forego their contractually negotiated cost of living adjustment for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011. This action saved the City an estimated $46,590 assuming the members would have gotten a 2% COLA. Some employees took voluntary leave without pay to help reduce the City’s costs. A number of currently vacant positions continue to be held open, with other employees taking on more work to cover the vacancies. Per the FY14-15 Adopted Budget, the City had eliminated 2.6 full time equivalent (FTE) in order to meet a sustainable budget, after several years of other staffing reductions. Additionally, per the FY 15-16 Adopted Budget, the City reorganized Public Works FTE to decrease total FTE by 1.25 and per the FY 16-17 Adopted Budget, the City eliminated a total of 6.75 FTE due to departmental reorganizations and budget reductions. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11 as known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %

 Bargaining Unit

 FY 16-17

 FY 15-16

FY14-15 

 FY13-14

 FY12-13

 FY11-12

 FY10-11
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -      -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How come City employees get cost-of-living-adjustments (COLA) raises in a bad economy?

Most City employees are members of a collective bargaining unit with an existing labor agreement in place. However, in recent years, some units have elected to forego a COLA in a particular year in order to help keep costs down. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11, as far as what is known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %:

Bargaining Unit  FY16-17  FY15-16 FY14-15 FY13-14  FY12-13  FY11-12  FY10-11 
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -  -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How do Corvallis salaries compare with other similar-sized cities?

Under the State of Oregon Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act, municipalities compare to similar sized cities during labor negotiations. In addition, the City Council has adopted a Compensation Policy for the City to set total compensation based on the mean of comparable sized cities and internal equity, that is how City employees compare to one another. Generally, the comparable cities the City of Corvallis uses include at least: Albany, Bend, Lake Oswego, Medford, Springfield, and Tigard. Generally Corvallis' total compensation is within 5% of the mean of these comparators. Some Corvallis positions are paid higher or lower than the 5% differential. In the case of public safety units, which are not allowed to strike, arbitration guides many labor decisions including wages, and these wages have generally risen faster than non-public safety. This can also impact management salaries where there is a need to maintain a pay differential between staff and management in order to avoid compression and attract relevant expertise with the increased responsibility.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How much would the City save if all the employee groups agreed to forgo their cost of living adjustments (COLA) this year?

his calculation can be complicated based on certain contractual increases where the COLA for a given bargaining unit may receive equity changes in job class for certain positions. One way to put the cost in perspective is to consider that a 1% reduction in projected FY 12-13 salaries (including an estimated impact for FICA and PERS contributions that are based on a % of pay) would result in savings of around $233,000 a year for all regular employees in the General Fund.
In the short term such salary savings would carry forward; in that future increases would be built on a lower base salary than would have been the case with the COLA. However, such savings would be temporary due to the way Oregon collective bargaining law works and would not continue to provide savings for the long term, structural funding problem. Under state law, represented employees are categorized as either eligible to strike or as "strike prohibited" which are public safety units -- in Corvallis police, fire, and dispatch. These employees have a system of binding arbitration that is based largely on comparable total compensation. So, if Corvallis does not increase its wages and benefits while other cities do, we fall behind. This can impact recruitment and retention, and also leaves the City vulnerable under state law to having an arbitrator impose increases on the City as a later date, bringing us back to where we would have been had we taken the cost-of-living adjustment. That is, while we would save money initially, foregoing an increase is not sustainable over the long term because the labor market would continue to increase.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What does the City pay on behalf of current employees (vs. retired employees) for medical/dental/vision/RX premiums as a % of both personnel service costs and total operating budget?

Currently just over 7% of the City’s total operating budget is spent on active employees’ medical/dental benefits and roughly 14% of total personnel service costs (not including retiree benefits) is made up of these benefit expenditures. Medical/dental coverage for retired employees who were hired prior to August 1992 (employees hired after this date are no longer eligible for city paid coverage) represents almost 2% of total personnel service costs. 

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What is the practical application of furloughs to non-public safety employees?

There are a lot of issues, which are more questions than answers, about furloughs. A furlough is a change in wage and hours which requires collective bargaining for represented employees. The method used to implement a furlough makes a big difference. The most common form of furlough in current practice is to close facilities for a day; other alternatives include shortening the work day (i.e., open offices at 10 AM instead of 8), closing facilities for a one week period (for example closing from Christmas to New Year's), or having employees take mandatory “floating” furlough days. The model chosen influences such questions as:
• If facilities would all be closed at one time, would furloughs apply to all City operations except Police/Fire front line responders or just to property tax funded services? There are operations not funded by property taxes that would require at least one employee to be on duty (i.e., Wastewater Treatment Plant). Library branches, funded through the Benton County Library Service District, would be a lot like the city’s non-property tax funded services, so it would have to be determined whether a City furlough would apply to these operations. If Parking Enforcement Officers were furloughed, there would be no enforcement of parking regulations. If the Utility Billing Office (funded by the utilities funds) is furloughed, there would be no meter reading or turn on/off services that day of the week. Exempt staff (mostly managers) would not be allowed to work on a furlough day or their exempt status for the week would be jeopardized and they could be eligible for overtime for any hours over 40 for that week which would not normally be the case. Part-time employees who have a regularly scheduled day off on a closed furlough day would have to have other time off or not contribute to savings.
• If the furlough was taken as a “floating day” and facilities were not closed, there could be undue burden in some locations to meet customer service coverage issues, especially when other staff members are on leave such as a sick day. There would also be an increased administrative burden to be sure all employees were taking their required furlough days. This is the model that was implemented for the AFSCME union members for the 2-days of furlough leave agreed upon for a one year contract in fiscal year 2011-12.

Regardless of the model, issues that arise include:
• Compensation when employees are called out on a furlough day to address a short-term emergency (i.e., a Battalion Chief to oversee a fire incident or for a Fire Prevention Officer to investigate; the on-call Public Works Supervisor called in for a broken water line; an IT systems administrator is called in for a network of public safety system outage). This issue is exacerbated for a longer-term emergency (i.e., snow/ice storm, flooding).
• Work on capital projects may have to be stopped on a furlough day because there will not be inspection services/project manager availability to answer questions, meet inspection requirements, etc. If so, this could increase costs for certain projects.
• Work on private construction projects may also be a concern if the Development Services inspectors are furloughed and unable to inspect as timely as in other situations. All these questions arise each time the City considers and/or works with union negotiations to implement furloughs and do serve to influence the amount of savings a furlough produces. There are several agencies which have implemented furloughs that do help provide models for the City to use, should with this suggestion become a viable longer term solution.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why did the City add staff when they knew there was a long term funding City services issue?

In FY 08-09 the City had an $8 million fund balance in the funds that receive property taxes and cautioned the community that harder times were coming. All staff additions are made after careful consideration by the Budget Commission and City Council, and staff additions may be made knowing there are future funding issues involved. But because the staff additions are deemed "critical" by elected and appointed officials the staff additions are authorized. City staffing has decreased overall in the last few years; however, the downward trend in FTE stopped in FY13-14 when net total staffing increased by 10.025 FTE (full time equivalents): 0.750 FTE increase due to reorganizations; 3.500 FTE added for enhancements; 4.375 FTE funded by the 2013 Operating Levy (although in total, the Levy will now fund 22.500 FTE, including previously authorized staffing for the Osborn Aquatic Center, Chintimini Senior Center and Library Monday hours, as well as 3.0 FTE Police Officers previously unfunded); 4.000 FTE added for the new Residential Parking District; and 2.600 FTE eliminated to meet a sustainable budget. However, this trend did not spill into FY 15-16 as the Residential Parking District positions did not come to fruition due to the unsuccessful outcome at the polls and overall authorized FTE decreased by a net 1.25 FTE due to reorganizations.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why doesn't the city do furloughs or work 32 hour weeks for non-emergency personnel?

The City has considered and continues to look at potential savings if non-emergency staff worked four 10-hour days and offices were closed one extra day each week. Furloughs have also been discussed and were implemented (2 days) by the AFSCME unit for FY 11-12, as a mechanism to help maintain their benefit levels for an additional year. Because furloughs are a reduction in work hours and therefore pay, implementing additional furloughs would require bargaining with the appropriate labor representatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Does the City add fluoride to the water?

Yes, we do. In 1952, the citizens of Corvallis voted to have fluoride added to City drinking water. Several years later, a group of residents wanted the City to stop adding fluoride, so a second vote was held in 1960. Citizens voted 2-to-1 to continue adding fluoride to the water. 

Fluoride, known for its cavity-fighting benefits, is of special interest to parents with young children. Studies have shown that it strengthens tooth enamel and inhibits acid production by decay-causing bacteria in dental plaque. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends a fluoride concentration of 0.7 to 1.2 ppm in drinking water. Our target fluoride level is 0.8 ppm. 

Category: Water Treatment
Expenditure - Why doesn’t the City lower its costs?

Over the past decade the City has taken numerous steps to lower costs. Examples are wide ranging and include implementing energy efficiency measures such as facility heating/cooling systems, changing lighting, and decreasing paper usage; increasing the share of medical/dental insurance employees pay and changing benefits; and entering into numerous partnerships with other governments and non-profits to jointly provide services. Even with these measures, the City’s costs continue to rise. Services supported by property taxes and other non-designated revenues are heavily invested in personnel – police officers, fire fighters, lifeguards, librarians, recreation program staff, and parks maintenance workers. Most of the staff positions for the City are paid according to collective bargaining agreements, and in some cases these agreements are subject to arbitration to ensure that Corvallis staff are paid at a comparable rate to similar sized cities.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Did balancing the budget for FY 11-12 resolve the problem?

It did not. $2.5 million in expenditure reductions, in FY 10-11, and another $1.8 million in reductions for FY 11-12 combined with a successful, voter approved 3-year operating levy in May 2011 improved the financial outlook for FY 12-13 but not enough. In staff’s future financial projections, revenues and expenditures remain unbalanced with expenditures exceeding revenues by several million dollars each year. The long-term structural imbalance still needs to be addressed. The efforts made during the previous budget planning periods have provided additional, but limited time to develop the community-wide process needed to discuss revenue alternatives as well as service reductions and how best to proceed to meet the community’s needs and priorities. In FY 12-13 Council bought off on a new Financial Planning model that looks at rebuilding reserves and enacting a more sustainable budget that balances recurring revenues and expenditures. In addition, during the FY14-15 budgeting cycle, the expenditure limit concept was implemented for each department, ensuring that revenues would equal expenditures within a five-year planning window.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought passage of Measures 66 and 67 would mean no cuts, so why is this happening?

Measures 66 and 67 increase income taxes paid to the state and increase funding for state funded programs. They have no direct impact on the City’s funding.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought that in FY 09-10 the City had plenty of money. What happened?

While the budgeting process based on past historically normed averages appeared promising, revenues in the property tax funds in FY 08-09 ended up being about $1 million lower than expected, and expenditures were almost exactly as expected. As a result, some of the “usual” annual savings were not realized. That, combined with fairly flat revenue projections for FY 09-10 and future fiscal years, and increasing expenses, leads to a structural problem where annual revenue is lower than the annual operating expenses. This situation continued to worsen in all recent year actuals through to and including FY 12-13 actuals.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Is there a way to get the 3% growth in revenue matched better to the 6% growth in expenditures?

There is no easy answer on this one. Growing property taxes beyond current projections is limited by Oregon State law through state-wide voter approved ballot initiatives (Measures 5, 47 and 50 for property taxes). Although new development would allow more significant increases in property tax revenue, the City would need to add nearly $200 million in new development to raise $1 million in revenue. Some new revenue sources are subject to state preemptions (i.e., local real estate transfer tax). Others are subject to difficulties associated with collections or administration (i.e., states that have a local sales tax often use state collections processes for local revenues; states that have local income taxes use the state income tax as a base and the state collects). Oregon has a long history of voter dislike of new taxes (i.e., Oregon’s many failed attempts to put in place a statewide sales tax).

In the last several years Corvallis has attempted to improve local revenues through adoption of a local telecommunications tax that was referred to the voters and failed, and through discussions of a business license fee, local meal tax, and local entertainment tax. All of these had strong local opposition and never moved forward. Added to the challenges associated with adopting a local, significant new tax would be the market difficulties Corvallis’ businesses might face if there was a local income or sales tax that did not apply in Philomath, Albany, etc. Basically, to expand the local revenue stream in any significant way for tax-based services will require some movement on the State’s part.

Some of the services which get discussed for possible cuts, most notably Parks & Recreation services, charge fees for most programs. Fees are set based on City Council financial cost recovery policies, market tolerance, including competitors and direct costs to deliver the program while balancing the mission of Public Recreation to be accessible to all community members. Fees are reviewed annually by the Parks, Natural Areas and Recreation Board and City Council. A simple analysis that assumes no change in participation (which, due to elasticity of demand, is unlikely to be true), but full cost recovery through fees at the Aquatic Center would increase charges 176%. Daily entry for one swim session is projected to increase from $4 to $11 – likely pricing most users out of the use of the pool. Parks & Recreation staff completes a fee comparison of local and state-wide aquatic centers as part of the annual fee review. Corvallis rates are generally at or above the median fees charged for almost all activities (child through senior) and for annual memberships. Review of fees of Parks and Recreation programs, including the Aquatic Center, occurs each spring through the Department's advisory board and City Council. Staff anticipates recommending some increase in fees each year, but not at a level that recovers all costs in order to remain competitive with other aquatic facilities and fulfill the mission of Public Recreation as outlined in its cost recovery model.
Like the revenue picture, the expenditure side of the equation is equally challenged by State laws. In particular, the State’s collective bargaining laws, that require comparisons with similar sized governments, in many cases means that labor negotiations are not completed solely within the discretion of the City Council. Arbitration requirements for Police, Fire, and 9-1-1 units do not necessarily allow the City Council to include “ability to pay” among the factors to be considered in labor negotiations as the primary factor. All of this means that as Corvallis’ comparators increase compensation, Corvallis must follow.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Please explain the "structural problems with how local government services are financed" in Oregon; what are these structural problems and what does this concept mean?

Cities have fairly specific limits on how they can raise revenues, with property taxes as the primary revenue source for many services. Although Corvallis has been assertive in pursuing alternative revenues (i.e., fees for participation in Parks & Recreation classes, implementation of the Library Service District) there are not a lot of alternatives that produce significant revenues. Also, often times services which are funded with property taxes and other non-dedicated revenues (franchise fees, state revenue sharing, transient room taxes) cannot actually be funded by charges for service since a specific user cannot be identified.

Furthermore, property taxes were limited in 1996/97's statewide elections on Measure 47/50. Property tax growth is generally limited to 3% per year, and most people who live in Corvallis would agree that their assessed value (AV) (and the taxes paid to the City) have gone up close to 3% each year. This assumption is generally true for residential and commercial property, where real market value (RMV) continues to increase -- usually faster than 3% annually -- so that most residential and commercial property now has an AV rating that is about 60% of the RMV. However, industrial property has an AV that is generally equal to a declining RMV. In Corvallis, industrial property has decreased in value about 10% annually since 1997. In some years this decrease has been offset by added value from new development. However, there has been no real new taxable development in the past several years, so property tax revenue to the City is pretty flat.

Other non-dedicated revenues are also holding flat or growing very slowly -- franchise fees have been flat or in some cases declined as people quit using land lines, conserve energy and water, etc. Transient room taxes declined for several years as people travelled less for business and/or for pleasure. While the parts of State Revenue Sharing tied to alcohol taxes have continued to grow in general, they are not growing enough to offset property tax losses.

All this adds up to a total revenue stream that is, at best, growing 2.5% to 3% annually.

At the same time, expenditure growth, which is predominantly in salaries and benefits, has been around five to six percent annually. Drivers of this growth include:
 

 

  • Wages/salaries - As with revenue limitations, many of the compensation issues are governed by Oregon law that sets requirements for labor negotiations and include comparing total compensation with like-sized cities. Furthermore, City Council compensation policy has been to attempt to be at or near the mean of compensation in like-sized Oregon cities (which includes total wages and benefits) as well as balancing external comparators with internal equity and avoiding salary compression between jobs.
  • Benefits -- in particular for medical and dental insurance, have been increasing in the range of 10% annually for many of the past years.
  • PERS payments -- Oregon Public Employee Retirement System (OPERS) employer rates are set for a biennial period to follow the State's budget. The City's employer rates have been increasing, especially for the older PERS Tier 1/2 employees. The Oregon Supreme Court's decision that a significant share of the legislative changes to the Tier 1/2 benefits were unconstitutional, combined with the PERS Board's reduction in the assumed rate of return from 8% to 7.75% for 2015 and 7.5% for 2016, and anemic earnings during the same period will lead to significant increases in PERS rates beginning July 1, 2017; however, a firm rate will be provided to the City in the late fall 2016. Additional rate increases of a similar level are expected beginning July 1, 2019 and July 1, 2021.
  • Binding arbitration drives wages for three of the City’s public-safety related bargaining units: CPOA, IAFF, and CRCCA, which in turn drive some of the internal comparators when Human Resources staff review positions. It also, to some extent, drives wages for exempt employees to be sure that a supervisor is compensated higher than the people supervised.

Combined, these factors drive the lion's share of the City's expenditures. Even some of the non-labor expenditures can see significant increases in costs (i.e., a proposed 20% increase in electricity, rising fuel costs, etc.) that all work together to cause expenditures to grow faster than revenues.
Over time, this structural issue – where revenue grows at two to three percent and expenditures grow at five to six percent – creates an untenable situation where the level of services provided cannot continue because they simply cost more than the City will raise. Other cities are experiencing very similar issues as outlined in the League of Oregon City's recent publication "State of the Cities."

Category: Financial Budget
General - Why is the City in budget trouble?

The City’s major revenue sources for certain functions, collectively called the property tax supported operations, have been growing more slowly than the costs to provide services.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Won’t this get better when the economy gets going again?

Probably not. Significant new taxable development would have to occur to raise property tax revenue. For example, to increase revenue by about $1 million annually, about $195 million in assessed value, or 652 homes each with an assessed value of around $300,000 would have to be added. Franchise Fees, the second highest non-designated revenue, have been decreasing as more people are conserving energy and water, and as people drop land line telephones. Transient room taxes are picking back up as the economy has shown some improvement. However, at around $1.5 million, even 10% growth will not bring in enough revenue to solve the City’s funding challenges. The state taxes alcohol and cigarettes and shares the revenue with local governments, but with the state’s financial challenges there is discussion at the legislature about ending the revenue sharing arrangement.

Category: Financial Budget
How can I report hazardous road conditions?

Residents may report problems or concerns to Public Works (541-766-6916) during regular business hours (M - F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.). To report hazardous situations after hours, weekends or holidays, please call 911.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
How do I report a concern or request a transportation-related improvement?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Staff will investigate and determine if there is an issue that needs to be addressed, and if so, how it compares with competing priorities, and whether there is staffing and budget capacity to address it. Examples of more easy-to-implement improvements include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. In contrast, if the request would result in the installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have un-budgeted funding readily available. These types of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How does citation fees in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

Corvallis’ citation fee is currently $10, and the new fee will be $15. The average citation fee for the comparator cities listed above averages $18.40. It averages over $23 when Davis, CA is included.

How often is our drinking water quality tested?

Drinking water is perishable. That is why the City of Corvallis takes steps to prevent water quality degradation from the time the water leaves the treatment plant until it gets to your tap. Laboratory professionals take routine samples from sampling stations strategically located in the distribution system. Routine sampling lets the staff confirm that our water is free from harmful bacteria and that there is sufficient chlorine for continued disinfection throughout the system. Automated, continuous water quality monitoring stations also take real-time samples from the distribution system throughout the entire day, every day, all year long. The data are continuously relayed to water system staff to assist them in optimizing water quality. See the annual Consumer Confidence Report for more information about our water quality and testing.

Category: Water Conservation
How will the City know if violations occur?

For implementation of this ordinance to be effective, the City needs your help! Citizens who witness a possible violation are encouraged to contact the Public Works Department by calling the 24-hr pollution prevention hotline at 541-766-6565.

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How will the implementation of this ordinance be paid for?

There will be no additional fees to rate payers as a direct result of this ordinance. The implementation of this ordinance, in addition to other programs aimed at reducing stormwater pollution, is funded through stormwater utilities fees, which you can see on your monthly utility bill. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How would I know about a problem with the water supply?

The City of Corvallis keeps close watch on your water supply. The law requires that you be informed if there is a problem with your water. Potential sources for this news are the radio, television, newspapers, the Benton County Environmental Health Department, the Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Program, or directly from the City of Corvallis.

Category: Water Conservation
I heard that lawns need one inch of water per week. Is this true? How much water should I put on my garden or landscape plants?

It's true! In the early spring, the soil has all the water it can hold. As the temperatures warm and the daylight hours lengthen, plants increase the amount of water they remove from the soil, and the amount of water that evaporates from the soil also increases. The amount of water that you apply to your lawn or landscape should equal the amount of water lost through evaporation and transpiration, often called evapotranspiration, or simply ET. Corvallis averages about 34 inches of rain and 34 inches of ET each year. Theoretically, nobody should ever have to water their lawn at all! Of course the rain comes when plants are not growing as rapidly, so many people irrigate. While one inch per week is a good average for the growing season, the amount of irrigation you apply should change from week to week. Your plants need more water in July than in May or September. Check out the Smart Irrigation and A Golden Landscape and Water Efficient Plant Guide for more information about irrigation, lawns, and conserving water.

Category: Water Conservation
I don't feel like driving in these conditions. What are my options?

Residents are encourages to use alternate modes, such as public transportation, if roads are icy. Visit www.corvallistransit.com for route and schedule information.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
I want to store some water for a possible emergency. Is bottled water ok to store?

Bottled water can be a good source of drinking water during an emergency, but it does not store well for long periods of time. Generally, bottled water does not contain a disinfectant, so microbes may grow in it over time. Because of this, bottled water should be treated as a perishable food product. Tap water does contain low levels of disinfectant and should be stored in capped plastic or glass containers. However, even properly stored tap water will not last indefinitely and should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. 

Category: Water Treatment
If I plead guilty, do I have to pay today?

Yes, if possible. If you need time to pay, be sure you ask the Judge when you enter your plea. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
If I plead not guilty, when will my trial be?

Trials are set for Mondays and Thursdays. Cases are set in advance about two months. If you plead not guilty today, your case will be set within approximately two months. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
In the event of bad weather, which City streets will be cleared first?

For snow and ice events, plowing and sanding in Corvallis are prioritized into four categories:

  • Priority 1 
    The following streets are considered to be the minimum network which must be kept open to provide a transportation system that connects to essential facilities, hospitals, fire stations, police stations, and emergency response units: Good Samaritan (Samaritan Drive and Emergency Room access); Fire Station access (5th Street, Circle Boulevard, 35th Street, Tunison Avenue); all Corvallis Transit System routes; select streets within the Central Business District connecting to essential facilities (2nd Street, Jackson, Tyler, Polk & Adams Avenues); and Corvallis Public Works access (Waterworks Drive). 
  • Priority 2 
    The following streets provide significant secondary access routes for emergency responders and community travel: arterials and collectors—Circle Boulevard, Research Way, Brooklane Drive, 49th Street, 45th Street, Birdsong, 26th Street, 29th Street, 30th Street, Grant Avenue, Washington Avenue, Alexander Avenue, Thompson Street, Harrison Boulevard, Van Buren Avenue, Garfield Avenue, Glenridge Drive, Ponderosa Avenue, and lower elevation areas of Witham Hill Drive and Elks Drive. 
  • Priority 3 
    All other local roads and facilities not listed as Priority 1 or 2. Streets and areas include residential streets that connect to arterial and collector streets listed in Priority 2 and City owned public parking lots. 
  • Priority 4 
    Streets and areas in this category include: Higher elevation areas (Skyline West, South Hills, Garryanna, Rolling Green, Estaview, Elmwood, Myrtlewood, Witham Hill, Elks Drive), the Corvallis Municipal Airport, and Cul-de-sacs.

Note: Except when requested by fire or police, plowing and sanding will not take place in the following areas: private streets, streets and cul-de-sacs exceeding 15% grade, alleys, and streets maintained by other agencies (ODOT, Benton County, and OSU).
Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Is bottled water safer than tap water?

Like tap water, the safety of bottled water depends both on the source water and the treatment process. Because bottled water is considered a food product, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Starting this year, the FDA will require bottled water manufacturers to test their source water and the finished product once a year; however, the quality of the finished product is not government monitored. Any bottled water that contains contaminants in excess of the allowable level is considered mislabeled unless it has a statement of substandard quality. If you use bottled water, consider it a food product and refrigerate it after opening. 

The use of bottled water or home treatment devices is a personal choice, which may be based on taste preferences. If however, you use these products for health reasons, we suggest that you thoroughly research the product you are selecting to assure that it offers the level of protection you are seeking. 

Category: Water Treatment
Is it safe?

Where necessary, the sealant will be covered with a fine layer of sand to limit tracking. However, caution is still advised. When the material is first applied, it is extremely hot (400°), wet, sticky, and very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings. For the safety of children and pets, please keep them off the streets on the day your street is sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Is it true that City of Corvallis property owners are taxed twice for the library district because they are both in the county and the city?

It is true that Corvallis residents pay for the Library in both City of Corvallis property taxes and in the Library Service District property taxes. This was known and discussed at length at the time the Library Service District was put into place by voters.

Category: Financial Budget
Is washing my personal car in my driveway or street considered a violation?

Discharge from individual residential car washing would not be a violation of this ordinance (Section 4.04.030). Although residential car washing is allowed, the City encourages citizens to prevent soap and car grime from entering streams by taking cars to a commercial car wash. In Corvallis, commercial car washes are connected to the City sanitary system, which can treat and remove pollutants. The City Stormwater Program also has a free SudSafe carwash kit for loan to keep suds, dirt, and oils out of the storm system,. This kit is available for stream-friendly car wash fundraisers! 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
I’ve heard about dioxin. What is it?

Dioxin is one of a group of chemicals called chlorinated organics. These compounds form when chlorine reacts with organic materials, like leaves, woody material, or decaying plants, in the water. Formation of these compounds depends on several factors including: the amount of organic material present, the concentration and form of chlorine, and the amount of time the chlorine is in contact with the organic material. Dioxin is a highly complex compound that generally only forms when large quantities of organic material and chlorine are in contact for long periods of time. The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level for dioxin in drinking water is 30 parts per quadrillion (ppq). We have been testing for the presence of dioxin in city water since 1991. To date, dioxin has not been detected in our finished drinking water. 

Category: Water Treatment
I’ve heard about THMs in the news lately. What are they?

When organic materials (such as the algae, leaves, or decaying plants found in untreated source water) react with the chlorine disinfectant during the treatment process, disinfection by-products can be created. Some of these by-products form a group of chemicals called trihalomethanes, or THMs. In excessive quantities, these by-products may have harmful health effects. The maximum contaminant level (MCL) of trihalomethanes allowed in drinking water is 100 parts per billion. 

As part of the 1997 Taylor Plant upgrade, enhanced treatment processes and four new filters were installed to help us meet federal drinking water regulations regarding THMs. These improvements have dramatically increased the plant’s efficiency for removing particles that may contain organic material from the source water. The treatment process has also been modified so that chlorine is only added to the water in the final step of treatment. These improvements will help ensure that the formation of disinfection by-products is kept to a minimum. 

Category: Water Treatment
Other Services - If the City is in so much financial trouble, why doesn’t it just not do . . .

There are a lot of suggestions made about ending programs. This FAQ is a gathering spot for some of the ideas suggested in public forums, editorials, or community gatherings. Some of the more common suggestions and the City’s response include:

  • Cut the Housing Assistance program – this program is not funded by any property taxes.
  • Cut the newsletter – the City is often cited as the best source of information for many in the community about what is going on in the City. The print version was cut in 2002, replaced as an on-line only publication, but it was quickly added back due to the complaints and the dramatic drop in survey respondents reporting they had enough information about the City. Nevertheless, when additional reductions were required in City services for the FY12-13 cycle, budget for the newsletter was cut again; as of July 1, 2012 the newsletter is available as an online-only publication.  Those interested in receiving the newsletter via e-mail may sign up for the e-notification system on the City’s website.
  • Cut maintenance workers or decrease maintenance of flower beds instead of Police or Firefighters – this can and is considered each budget cycle, as noted in previous discussions with the Budget Commission. However, only cuts in Parks and Recreation or certain General Fund Facilities Maintenance work would impact the property tax funds. Workers in utilities or street maintenance are not funded by property taxes.
  • The City’s web site fails to tell us how many are on the City’s payroll – the City’s entire FY16-17 Adopted Budget is on the web site. Page 35 shows how many positions the City has authorized for the year. All told, the City employs between 500 and 650 people annually when summertime seasonal and temporary employees are working.
  • Cut the most recent additions - more recently added programs are considered for elimination by all departments when cuts are needed. However, each Department Director, along with Advisory Boards and Commissions, need to prioritize the entire menu of services offered to determine what to put on a cut list; the newest programs may be the most cost/beneficial to citizens, and so are not always the most reasonable to eliminate in all circumstances. 
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Is there a list of enhancements and FTE changes over the last several years updated for the current status of same?

Answer: In Attachment 2 of the February 4, 2010 special Budget Commission meeting packet there is a list of enhancements added in the six years prior to that date and the status of each at that time. In Attachment 3 from that same packet is a table of FTE counts by Department dating back to 2000. This table summarizes the increases and decreases in staffing for each department over the last decade. The FY 16-17 Adopted Budget Document also shows trending information on City staffing beginning on page 35.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What can the City do to be more efficient?

City staff have taken a number of actions over the last decade to become more efficient in operations, and in how monies are expended and continuously look for improvements to City operations ongoing. Departments have been reorganized, new data management systems implemented to both improve staff efficiency and customer service, positions reduced or eliminated, public and private partnerships put in place/maintained, and bond issues have been advance refunded to take advantage of the market and achieve real dollar savings in debt service payments. Up until FY12-13 when the membership cost was eliminated from the Budget, Corvallis participated in the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA) – Center for Performance Measurement (CPM) process where a set of standard measures are tracked each year. Corvallis has usually shown high marks when compared to similar sized cities from Oregon and the nation. The City also has tracked historical trends on its own operations that it reports quarterly to demonstrate improving efficiencies or potential for same with a change in related resources. Some examples of such measures are included in the Quarterly Operating Reports published on the City's website.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What does the City really do with the donations I make on my utility bill?

It depends on the donation since there are several types.

  • For the Voluntary Low Income Assistance Donation Program donations, the City provides the monies to the United Way. When citizens approach the City for help with their bills the City refers the person to the United Way, which uses the donation monies to pay the person’s City utility bill. The United Way works with people who are in need to facilitate assistance for a wide variety of payments (City utility bills, electric bills, rent assistance, etc.) and can also work with people on getting them into counseling, job re-training programs or similar safety net programs.
  • For the Voluntary Parks Donation Programs donations, the monies are deposited in the Parks & Recreation Fund and are used to pay for a portion of the costs for the Youth Parks Corps program which is a part-time summer employment opportunity for youth between 14 and 16 years of age. Youth learn some basic employment skills working on a wide variety of projects in City parks.
  • For the Voluntary Library Donation Program the monies are deposited in the Library Fund and are used for the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Which City facilities (senior center, aquatic center, etc.) pay for themselves, and which don't? Why don't the ones that don't cover their expenses raise their fees?

None of the City’s facilities pay for themselves except the Water, Wastewater, and Storm Water systems and the Corvallis Municipal Airport. Fees for activities are reviewed annually. The review takes into account both the coverage and the elasticity of demand related to the fee. For all City facilities except those which currently cover all costs, if the City set fees high enough to cover all costs without the use of property taxes, many people who currently use the services and or facilities would not be able to afford it, which could lower total fee revenue and as fewer people use the service, would defeat the purpose of having these as public facilities.

Category: Financial Budget
Please provide information on the amount spent on law enforcement in Corvallis and the % of those expenditures as part of both the property tax funded expenditures as well as of total Citywide ops?
 
The best source of info for questions like these is the City's most recent Budget Document. Within the FY16-17 document, this particular information can be found on pages: pg. 22 (for total Police budget vs. total Citywide or for General Fund Police budget vs. total General Fund budget); or pg. 146 (Department summary for Police Dept - breaks down General Fund/9-1-1 Fund and Parking Fund portion of the total Police Budget). Although Parking Fund information was not specifically sought in the question above, the provision of same helps paint a more complete picture. Some data has been summarized in the table below:
 

 FY 16-17 Exp. Budget

 % General Fund Exp. Budget

 % Citywide Oper. Exp. Budget
Police - General Fund (1) 

 $12,549,750

28.8% 

12.9% 

Police - 911 Fund (2)

 2,388,730

 see footnote (2)

 2.4%

Police - Parking Fund (3) 

 291,420

 0%

 0.3%
Police - Vehicle/Equip Reserve Fund 

 88,920

  

 0.1%

Total Police Dept. Operating Bgt.

 15,318,820

 

 15.7%

Total Property Tax Funds - Oper. Exp. 

 43,554290

 100%

 44.6%

Total Citywide Operating Exp. 

 97,633,900

 

 100.0%

(1) Primarily property tax funded - included in General Fund.

(2) Approximately 50% funded by Property Taxes via Police & Fire in FY 16-17 (but in its own fund).

(3) Primarily funded by parking fine revenue in own fund (no property taxes). Additional interesting and helpful information regarding both the Police Department and the overall City budget is available on the City's website under the Finance Department “Financial Documents & Resources” location.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - How come the "important" stuff, like police and fire, are always at the top of the chopping block?

Police and Fire are not always on the top of the chopping block. However, combined, these two departments represent almost 56% of the total operating expenses in the General Fund, and nearly 68% of the draw on non-designated revenues. If cuts are not discussed or considered then there is no way to balance the impact of cuts on other services – Parks, Library, Land- Use Planning, Municipal Court, Economic Development – against alternatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Is there a study of Police Management and Detectives staffing levels?

The Matrix Police Staffing Study did not highlight anything on supervisors to line staff ratios as an area where management could be decreased to allow more line officers. Since Council did not support pursuing a comparable jurisdiction survey by the Local Government Performance Institute (LGPI) during the FY 11-12 budget process, due to the timing and cost of the proposal, staff did some additional research on both Police Department management to officer ratios in other cities and all other departments’ management and line staff FTE to workload ratios which was presented during the January 27, 2011 presentation to Budget Commission.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why can't we reduce Police staffing?

The City has commissioned staffing studies for both Police Officer staffing levels and 9-1-1 Dispatch staffing levels. Both reports indicate that additional staff is needed to meet minimum standards and best practice levels of service. To read more, see these reports. In addition, the League of Oregon Cities published a research report titled “City Police Officer Data – 2009” that provides detailed tables and analysis of the number of full-time officers in city police departments. LOC developed this report using data from the Oregon State Police, Law Enforcement Data Systems (LEDS). In order to look at the trend in city police departments, LOC’s data tables look at the number of officers and the officers per 1,000 people in 1999 and 2009. LOC also formats the data to look at trends based on population size. It is important to note however, the number of officers used in this study are from LEDS and not from the individual departments. LEDS numbers of sworn officers is based upon a moment in time and based upon the number of officers currently listed with LEDS to access the LEDS system. The department staffing numbers may not necessarily represent authorized FTE counts since vacancies, at a minimum, are excluded.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why did the City build/staff another firehouse when they should have seen money getting tight?

A considerable amount of work was done when the Zimbrick Station (located on Walnut) was built and staffed eight years ago. Fire Department response times are critical in cases of both fire and medical emergencies. To meet minimum response times in the growing northwest part of town and for the Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District a new station was needed. While calls for service in the intervening years have continued to grow, and despite the strong probability of increased response times for Fire-related emergencies, the Zimbrick Station was closed effective June 16, 2012 based on cost reductions necessary to balance the City’s budget. A study was conducted for the FY 12-13 budget cycle that determined closing the Zimbrick station in combination with moving an ambulance and reorganizing response team staffing should result in improved EMS response times for medical emergencies, which represent the largest number of calls received by the department. With growing northwest populations however, it is not clear that keeping the station closed long-term will be viable for life safety issues. There is increased risk that may be apparent in insurance premiums paid by homeowners in recent and ensuing years.

Studies done when the Zimbrick Station was being considered, as well as the 2012 study that resulted in the Station's closure, are available for review here:

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the City get franchise money from Comcast? If so, hasn't that been increasing enough to offset the Qwest land line losses?

Comcast began paying franchise fees on phone service in FY 2009. Annual revenues although growing, are still less than $170,000 per year, so have not served to offset the land line losses.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the property tax budget issue affect all City operations?

No. It only affects the operations funded by property taxes and other non-designated revenues. The primary services funded by these sources include Police, Fire, Library, Land-Use Planning, Economic Development, Municipal Court and Parks and Recreation. While there are always financial challenges to do with user fee rate setting in the water, sewer, storm water, airport, housing, parking, transit or development services funds, these services do not receive any property tax revenue so service priorities are more standalone in nature.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How can you say that property taxes are not growing – my taxes went up last year?

Oregon constitutional tax limits allow each property’s assessed value to increase 3% every year unless the property’s real market value is reduced to below the assessed value. In Benton County, residential property is generally assessed at about 60% of the real market value, so even in the down economy, drops in real market value have not stopped the 3% increase in assessed value on many parcels of property. For example, if your home had a real market value of $300,000 and assessed value of around $180,000 (60% of real market value), your property’s real market value would have to drop to below $180,000 to see a reduction in property taxes.

Other classes of property, like industrial property, have real market value close to the assessed value, and with declining real market value the assessed value, and the taxes that are paid, decline each year. Industrial property is such a large proportion of the City’s total assessed value that the overall reductions in their value, particularly with successful revaluations by tax payers such as Hewlett-Packard, bring the total growth in all assessed value down to less than 3%. For FY13-14, the City’s total assessed value, and property tax revenue, increased by only 1.49%; however, FY 14-15 saw a 4.28% increase, and FY 15-16 saw only a 2.49% increase, bringing the average over the prior ten years to 2.73%.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How much franchise fee revenue has been lost from Qwest by the move from land lines to cell phones?

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - If the proportion of the total revenues impacted by property taxes is less than 50% of total revenue, why is this such a big deal?

Though property tax sources are only about 30% of the City’s total operations, when looking at General Fund operations alone, the combination of permanent rate taxes, Operating Levy dollars, Library district and Rural Fire district monies as well as other non-dedicated revenue sources provide more than 70% of the monies for the fire, land-use planning and police and more than 50% for library, parks & recreation and economic development services. Many of these are services where there is either no real way to charge specific users or where the charges would be so high that very few could afford to use the service.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Is there a way to have a tiered tax rate levy?

There does not appear to be anything in statute that would allow a multi-rate levy. However, a higher rate levy can be underlevied – as has occurred with the 509J levy where voter approval is for a maximum rate, but the District has chosen in some years to levy less than the maximum allowed.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Since there is a declining industrial property tax base, what contributions does OSU make for City services that are provided to campus (and other state/federal property in the city limits)?

OSU, along with all other state property used for state purposes, is exempt from all property taxes. So when the Hilton was built, on OSU land, there was some talk about it being tax exempt -- not true since it does not provide a governmental (or educational) purpose. In Corvallis, OSU has a significant presence and also a substantial amount of land and value in buildings. In the late 90's OSU had insurance coverage for $800 to $900 million -- it is likely safe to assume the real market value for this land may well be in excess of $1 billion now. In addition to OSU, all City, County, School District, and federal government facilities are exempt from property taxes as long as the property is used for governmental purposes. While not discussed much in the popular press, this is a big issue for county governments where the county has a significant chunk of land tied up in federal or state forest land. For cities, Salem, Eugene, and Corvallis all have significant state/university presence that takes a fair amount of property off the tax rolls. In addition to government, taxes are not levied on churches or synagogues, or on non-profit facilities such as the Boys and Girls Club. In general, the City provides all services to all facilities inside the City limits. About the only exception is that the Police Department does not provide police service to the OSU campus, but they certainly have a fair share of work in the neighborhoods around the campus. The Transit System has built a number of routes designed to get people to and from the campus, and the Fire Department responds to all emergency calls there. The City does not maintain the roads on campus, but has all the responsibility for the roads (and bike paths) that get people to the campus. As for payment from these non-profits: OSU, other governments, and all non-profits pays for water/sewer/storm drain service monthly based on usage. By extension, they all also pay the Transportation Maintenance Fee on the City Services Bill. OSU makes an additional contribution each year to the Transit System for operations and the ASOSU assesses fees to OSU students which are passed on the City to help pay for the late night Beaver Bus program. OSU also provides funding for a portion of one Fire Prevention Officer's time onsite, which is FY16-17 amounts to a payment of $90,000. Beginning in FY 17-18, OSU will be providing $400,000 in funding toward 3.0 FTE Police Officer positions. By using departmental savings from FY 15-16, these three positions will be hired in FY 16-17 so that they can be fully trained in time to provide services in FY 17-18.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - What are non-designated revenues?

Also referred to as "non-dedicated," these are the revenues which the City receives without strings attached on their use by other entities, and include property taxes levied for operations, franchise fees, a portion of transient room taxes, plus certain state shared revenues (cigarette and alcohol tax based). Combined, these revenues typically total just 30% of the City’s total revenue stream, but are more than 70% of the revenue for the property tax supported operations. All of the City’s other $60 million in revenue is designated, meaning there is a mandate from another entity (usually state or federal law) that limits what the money can be spent on.

Category: Financial Budget
Sometimes my water smells like chlorine. Why is that?

The Taylor and Rock Creek facilities both treat the water with chlorine. Low doses of chlorine act as a disinfectant protecting you against disease-causing microorganisms in the water. We are required by law to add disinfectant in order to meet state and federal regulatory mandates for safe drinking water. 

If you find the chlorine taste unpleasant, try filling a container with water and keeping it loosely capped in the refrigerator. 

Category: Water Treatment
The City plowed snow into my driveway and onto my sidewalk, when are they going to come back and remove it?

Our goal is to clear the roadway for safe travel. Unfortunately, berming is an inconvenient result of plowing. Adjacent property owners are responsible for clearing the berm to gain access to the roadway. We do not have the available resources to provide this service, and this is one way you can help.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What are some examples of ordinance violations?

A few common example violations include dumping used car oil or washing paint brushes into City storm drains, connecting a sink drain to the City storm system, or dumping litter or yard debris directly in a Corvallis stream. This is, however, not a comprehensive list of violations. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to review the ordinance to learn what personal activities may be affected by this new ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What are the meanings of sharrow markings (two chevrons with a bicycle symbol) on the road?

Sharrows are road markings used to show motorist that people riding bicycles may “take the lane” and helps show the bicycle rider good lane positioning. Use the sharrow marking to guide you where to ride within the lane.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If you need non-emergency assistance, please call 541-766-6924.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What does the ordinance cover?

The ordinance protects all parts of the City stormwater system, which includes City infrastructure, as well as natural features like streams from any pollutant that changes the physical, chemical, or biological properties of the stormwater. (For more information, see section 4.04.020 for a definition of pollutant and storm drainage system). 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What else is Corvallis doing to protect water quality through stormwater pollution prevention?

Since 2004, the City has taken steps to improve water quality and reduce The City is Doing It's Part Preventing Stormwater Pollution stormwater pollution in a variety of ways. We've enacted land development codes that protect waterways from pollution that can occur from urban development and created a robust program to monitor construction activities to ensure best practices. In addition, the City Stormwater Program regularly educates and engages Corvallis residents, students, and businesses in preventing stormwater pollution prevention. For more information, please visit the City Stormwater Program. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What happens if I violate the ordinance?

If the City becomes aware of a violation, the first step taken by the City will be to contact the responsible party and provide information about the issue and the water quality implications. If no action is taken to address the issue, then a formal letter will be sent, as is outlined in section 4.04.090.020 of the proposed ordinance. If sufficient action is still not taken then a fine no less than $100 and no more than $20,000 and/or 30 days in jail may be issued. In some cases, an alternative compensatory action may be substituted for fines and jail time. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What if I don't know what to do at an arraignment, how to plead or proceed?

The Municipal Court Judge can grant you a continuance for you to get legal advice. You must ask the judge, at the arraignment time set by the officer, to get additional time and to have a new date to appear assigned to you. Neither the Judge nor court staff can give you legal advice.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What if this happened in another city?

If the incident you would like to report took place outside of the City of Corvallis, please call the police department for that city.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on a state freeway?

 If this took place on a state freeway please call the Oregon State Police Office nearest you.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on the Oregon State University campus?

If your incident occurred on the OSU campus, please call 541-737-3010 to file your report.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you, or someone you know, has information that you believe will identify the person(s) who committed the crime.  This could include video surveillance, someone who can identify the suspect, or license plate information for the suspect's vehicle.  If there is a known suspect, please call us at 541-766-6924 so we can investigate the incident.  

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a violation? What is a misdemeanor?

A violation is a minor infraction in which punishment is limited to a fine only. A misdemeanor is a minor crime in which punishment is limited to imprisonment of up to one year, a fine or both. 
 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is the first appearance before a court to answer to a charge. When you receive a citation, you must enter a plea of either guilty, no contest, or not guilty to the court. This entry of plea is done at arraignment. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What is crack seal?

Crack seal is a hot, sticky, petroleum-based pavement crack and joint sealant. It does not resurface the entire street – it just fills cracks. The sealant forms a long-lasting, resilient seal which is flexible and expandable in varying and extreme pavement temperatures. Crack sealing prevents the invasion of surface water between the layers of asphalt and sub-grade rock, thus preventing premature pavement failures, deterioration and potholes. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
What is the overall purpose of the “Maintaining Public Streets during Snow and Ice Events” policy?

The purpose of this policy is to clarify and describe the City’s snow removal and sanding priorities and the level of service that is intended to be provided by City crews. The City does not guarantee that streets will be free of snow and ice after plowing and/or sanding. Bare, dry pavement should not be expected. The City will attempt to maintain adequate traction for vehicles properly equipped for winter driving conditions.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What is the risk of Cryptosporidium in our water?

Cryptosporidium 

(krip-toe-spor-ID-eum) is a microscopic organism that is naturally present in bodies of water throughout the world. Swallowing these tiny organisms can cause an intestinal illness known as cryptosporidiosis, although some persons infected with Cryptosporidium do not get sick. Symptoms include stomach cramps, upset stomach, and diarrhea. For most healthy people, the illness runs its course in a few weeks without serious consequences. However, for the elderly, young children, or for people with weakened immune systems, the disease can be life threatening. 

Cryptosporidiosis can be transmitted by swallowing contaminated water or food (such as unwashed fruits and vegetables), or by touching your mouth or putting anything in your mouth that has touched the feces of a person or animal with cryptosporidioisis. This includes diapers, farm or yard equipment, and pet waste. Studies have shown that about 1/3 of the population has been recently exposed to this germ, indicating that there are many sources of exposure. 

We have been testing city water for Cryptosporidium since 1994. The results indicate that no Cryptosporidium organisms have been detected. We believe the risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis from city tap water is quite low, however, if you are infected with HIV or have AIDS, are a cancer patient, are taking immunosuppressive drugs after a transplant, or were born with a weakened immune system, we encourage you to consult with your physician. Health officials may suggest that you take additional precautions, such as boiling drinking water for one minute before consuming it. 

Category: Water Treatment
What should I move out of the street during snow and ice removal in my area?

Residents are asked to remove their parked vehicles, boats, and trailers from city streets if possible. The City will not be responsible for vehicles parked on the street that are isolated by snow piles due to plowing operations. 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What was the impact on the City of the Court decision to uphold Hewlett-Packard’s (HP) appeal of its assessed valuation (AV) for property taxes?

In the summer of 2013, after the City’s FY 13-14 Budget was adopted, the State Department of Revenue filed an appeal of the award made to HP by the Oregon Supreme Court, thereby deferring the requirement to refund about $385,000 (city’s share) in interest until this later appeal is resolved. This adjustment, as well as other refinements for reserves held by the County, reduced the City’s direct portion of monies owed to HP to $1.4 million. This amount was paid in July 2013; additional revenue impacts to the City were monies owed by the Corvallis Rural Fire District ($88,726) and the Corvallis-Benton County Library Service District ($149,421). This $238,000 in payouts has decreased FY 13-14 payments to the City by these entities. The County has indicated that additional holdbacks will be made in FY 14-15 for the interest that is still potentially owed to HP. This situation impacts all General Fund services (i.e. Police, Fire, CD-Planning, Parks & Recreation, Library, Economic Development and Municipal Court), but was somewhat alleviated for future years with the passage of the November 2013 Five-year Operating Levy which provides approximately $600,000 per year in non-designated revenues designed to replace the lost funding for the lower HP valuation. City Council was provided with the linked memos below, as staff continues to work on a resolution of this financial situation. Ultimately, as of August 6, 2015 the Oregon Supreme Court reaffirmed the Tax Court's decision. 

HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome
HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome - Second Memo
Property Tax Assessed Value FY13-14
Benton County Press Release August 2015

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
When do you have arraignments?

Arraignments are:

Mondays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

  • 3 p.m. Criminal Arraignments

Thursdays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
When do you plow?

Plowing will begin when accumulating snow exceeds approximately two (2) inches.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
When do you sand?

Sanding will begin as soon as slick street conditions materialize. Sanding operations will stop if snow accumulations are covering over applied sand, making sanding operations ineffective.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Where can I get a copy of an ordinance?

The City Recorder at City Hall has all ordinances and you may request a copy. There is a 25¢ per page copy fee.

Please contact the City Recorder at (541) 766-6901 for more information. You may also go to the Public Library (645 NW Monroe, Corvallis, Oregon, 97330) where the Library staff can assist you in locating specific ordinances. 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Who clears the sidewalk in front of my business or residence?

All sidewalks and walkways adjacent to City-owned and maintained property and public parking lots are cleared by the City. Public sidewalks and private parking lots are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. Sidewalks not cleared within 24 hours after the snow and/or ice event has concluded can be subject to code enforcement actions (Municipal Code 5.04.050, Nuisances affecting public safety). 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Who should I contact if I notice plants, branches, leaf piles or other obstructions in the bike lane? What if objects block my line of sight?

We look toward our community in assistance for identifying issues like these and have set up an online form so you can quickly report hazards 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Once our team receives the issue you have identified, we quickly take steps on proper mitigation if there is a problem. You can get started by visiting Corvallis Connect, our online service request portal, to report the issue. 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Who will be affected by this ordinance?

The Corvallis storm system connects most of our City to waterways via storm drains. This means that all residents, businesses, and industries could be potentially impacted by this ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
Why are city staff releasing water from fire hydrants? Doesn't that waste water?

Technicians routinely flush water mains to keep our drinking water clean by removing rust and sediment that might be trapped in the distribution system. Flushing also allows crews to make sure all the valves and fire hydrants are operating as they should. To help protect the environment, the chlorine is removed from this water before it is discharged into the storm drain system. The chlorine in the water could be harmful to aquatic life, and most storm drains discharge directly into Corvallis’ urban streams.

Category: Water Conservation
Why are some bike lanes painted green?

A green bike lane enhances the visibility of a bicycle lane in places where there is a potential for conflict with motor vehicles. In Corvallis, we add these to bike lanes where automobile traffic crosses a bike lane. The dashed green strip shows a mixing zone where all users must be most cautious.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Why does the snow plow go down the street with the plow up?

There are many reasons for them to be traveling with the plow up. For example, the plow could be traveling back to the shop for repairs or there may not be enough snow on the street to plow.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Why is the flight path for the Corvallis Airport over the heavily populated area rather than away from it? Is this really something that cannot be changed, or attempted to be changed?

This question comes up each year when the weather gets nicer and people start working outside or keeping their windows open. This approach can’t be changed because it is the all-weather Instrument Landing System (ILS) precision approach to Runway 17, our main runway. Instrument landing systems are one of two types of precision approaches which allow an aircraft to safely land in all types of weather. Usually, they are only found at commercial airports because they cost millions of dollars. Ours was installed in the 1980’s when commercial flights were operating out of Corvallis. It is maintained by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is part of what draws business jets and charter flights into Corvallis, especially in the winter. It is setup on our main runway coming from the north because 70% of the time that is where the prevailing winds are coming from (the south). The safest direction for aircraft to land is into the wind. Aircraft use that approach each day, usually one or two dozen aircraft, including the US Army National Guard helicopters from Salem, the USCG helicopters from Newport and Astoria, FEDEX, UPS, business jets, and our local REACH Air Medical air ambulance. REACH requires this approach for operation out of Corvallis. They use it when returning from ambulance calls at night and in bad weather, and would have to relocate to another airport if the ILS was shutdown. Again, no other runway or direction would work for this approach. While we could ask the FAA to decommission the ILS at Corvallis, they normally require the airport sponsor (City of Corvallis in this case) to repay the FAA for the last 20 years of maintenance and improvements that have been made to that system. This is one of the “Grants and Assurances” we signed as part of our acceptance of FAA grant funds over the years. This would also reduce and possibly eliminate any business or charter aircraft coming into Corvallis, especially in the winter and bad weather months. Why is this approach used during the nice weather when you can see forever? Pilots are required to recertify on this system regularly, and they are not allowed to practice or get this certification training in bad weather.

Category: Airport
Why should we be concerned with water conservation in Corvallis?

Even when the water supply is adequate, conservation is simply a wise use of a precious resources. Conservation can contribute to a healthy environment, reduce your water bill, and ensure an adequate water supply for years. Using water wisely just makes good $ense! 

Category: Water Conservation
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water interferes with the crack-sealing process, so we ask residents not to water lawns, wash cars, or engage in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day their street is crack-sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will access to my street be affected?

You may drive on the street, but on-street parking will be prohibited. Sidewalks will not be closed. Postal, garbage, and recycling services will be notified before work begins, and there should be no or minimal interruption of these services during the work. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will you be clearing bike paths?

We will attempt to plow or sand bike lanes on the streets; however, limited time and resources prevent us from plowing or sanding bike paths that are separate from the roadways.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
¿Qué es un sospechoso conocido?

Un sospechoso conocido es cuando usted (o alguien presente) conoce a la persona o donde encontrar a la persona que cometió el crimen o el número de la patente del auto donde iba el sospechoso.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué hago si realizar una denuncia en línea no es lo apropiado en mi caso?

Si su incidente es una emergencia, llame al 911. Si no es una emergencia llame al 541-766-6924.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué pasa si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal?

Si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal por favor llame a la Patrulla de Autopistas de más cercana.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Si el incidente ocurre en otra ciudad, puedo utilizar este sistema de denuncia?

 No, si el crimen ocurrió fuera de la ciudad de Corvallis Police Department por favor llame al departamento de policía de la ciudad que corresponda.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
Is the City of Corvallis budget in line with other cities?

The budget for Corvallis is comparable to similarly sized cities, though a straight apples-to-apples comparison can be difficult. The City’s comparators include Albany, Bend, Springfield, Tigard, and Medford. In some of those communities, Parks and Recreation, Library, and Fire services may be provided by a separate taxing entity. This can make city-to-city comparisons more difficult. But where comparisons can be made, we line up.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Can we do more with less?

The City’s costs to continue providing existing services grow faster than revenue grows. As a result, the City has been cutting back on costs for a number of years, even as the total budget has grown. The City actively pursues methods for conserving and cutting costs. Significant efforts in recent years have included building solar power stations using grant monies to help offset significant electrical costs, changing to LED street lights as well as moving to LED lighting in buildings. Even with these changes and the cost savings associated with them, other costs are growing faster than revenues.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Should salaries be adjusted downwards? Can we put a hold on raises?

Salary and benefits for most City employees are negotiated with the four labor unions that represent them (Police, Fire, 911 and General Service Employees). The only group not represented by a labor union is management staff and a few confidential employees who are exempt employees.

Negotiations with the labor unions must meet the requirements set forth in the Oregon law, known as the Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act. This law requires us to look at what similar sized comparator agencies are paying in total compensation. In addition, the City has a compensation policy that states the City will be within +/- 5% of the average of our comparators.

The City is unable to decrease salaries or withhold negotiated pay increases without bargaining those changes with the labor unions that represent City staff.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
I pay over $4,000 a year in property taxes. How much goes to Corvallis?

Roughly one-third of your total property tax bill goes to the City of Corvallis. If you are paying $4,000 in property tax, you are paying City taxes of $1,119 for the permanent tax rate, $180 for the local option levy, and $55 for voter-approved debt for a total of $1,354. This is about 34% of the total property taxes you pay.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
With all the new apartments I’m seeing around town, why isn’t there more funding for our services?

All newly developed property is added to the tax rolls at lower than real market value as a result of tax laws in Oregon. Multi-family property added in 2016 has an assigned assessed value of 62% of the real market value, so if you look at an apartment with a $1 million value, the assessed value would be $620,000 and that tax bill for the City’s permanent rate would be $3,166.

As an example, The Retreat at Oak Creek, which was added to the tax rolls with fully developed real market value of $95 million has an assigned assessed value of $58.5 million. The taxes they will pay for the City’s permanent rate total $299,000, not the $485,140 they would have paid if assessed at full market value.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
How are OSU and Samaritan Services contributing to the City’s Budget? How are their property taxes assessed?

Neither OSU nor Samaritan Health Services pays property taxes on their facilities used for their operations. Both pay taxes on parcels used by for-profit operations. For example, the Hilton Hotel parcel is taxed even though it is on OSU property.

However, OSU voluntarily contributes to Transit, Fire Prevention and Police Department staffing.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Have you considered taxing Oregon State University?

Yes. However, state law does not allow it. OSU contributes to Transit Operations, Fire Prevention, and funds three police officers. OSU also pays all required fees (e.g., building permits, transportation maintenance fees, system development charges).

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why not require Oregon State University to create their own Police force or pay Corvallis to Police for them?

OSU uses the Oregon State Police Department for on-campus policing service. The City Police Department provides all policing services off-campus. In 2016, the City and OSU agreed on a cooperative effort and OSU is granting $1.2 million to Corvallis Police over 3 years to support local law enforcement. This is an unprecedented collaboration.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
We spend the bulk of City funds on Police. Is this needed or can we become more automated and efficient?

The City has made significant investments in efficiency automation for the Police department over the years, including investigative technology, online self-reporting of certain allowable offenses, social media and text-to-911 for emergency dispatch. The City implemented e-citations for both Police and Parking with automated download features. In short, the Police Department is a technologically advanced department and currently maximizes allowable public safety technology.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why are the calls for service for the Fire Department going up? Do we charge people for these calls?

Corvallis Fire Department is an ‘all hazard’ department, meaning we provide fire, rescue, emergency planning and prevention services for the City of Corvallis and Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District.

In addition, we provide transport ambulance services for the majority of Benton County and a portion of Linn County (765 square mile area). Also, we provide hazardous materials response in partnership with the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Albany Fire Department and Lebanon Fire District covering Linn, Benton, Lincoln and Polk counties.

Calls for service increase as our population grows and as our demographics change with people getting older. As mobile phones have become commonplace, calls for service have increased. In addition, the Fire Department role has evolved – when people have a problem they don’t know how to handle, they often call the Fire Department. We are often called to assist community members with everything from personal care issues to actual hazard mitigation such as ruptured gas lines.

The Fire Department ambulance service is supported by user fees, and there are a number of cost recovery fees in place for responses such as non-resident motor vehicle crashes; violations of the fire code; out of district responses to ‘un-covered’ areas.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Is the City’s fareless transit system really sustainable?

Fareless Transit was implemented by the City Council to achieve several goals.

One was to increase ridership by creating a barrier-free system, especially for low income residents. This goal has been achieved by a system generating more than 1 million rides a year in a town of 58,735 people.

Another goal was to improve the system’s on-time operation by eliminating the time it took for people to drop fares in the box and obtain transfer tickets. The efficiencies gained in this area have been somewhat offset by the on- and off-boarding of more passengers. However, there have been staff time savings from not having to process the coinage and produce transfer tickets. The Transit Operations Fee has the added benefit of being able to match federal transit operating grants, while fare box revenue cannot. This ensures we are able to use 100% of our federal grant allocation and not leave any federal funding on the table unspent.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why and how were these streets chosen and prioritized?

Between 2015 and 2018, the City engaged the community through open houses, public hearings, work groups, advisory committees, and a community-wide survey to create the Transportation System Plan (TSP), which was adopted by the City Council in 2018. It was during this process that the low-stress network was identified to improve walking and biking conditions throughout Corvallis. The streets chosen provide an alternative to adjacent, higher volume roadways for those on foot, wheel or mobility device.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why does the City run a parking program, anyway? I should be able to park where I want.

Parking in Corvallis is managed by the City to balance the availability and convenience of public parking in neighborhoods and business districts throughout the community. Public parking is not intended for long-term vehicle storage, nor does any business, neighborhood, or household “own” the public parking spots in front of their property. The Corvallis community is also interested in minimizing vehicle trips to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adjusting the pricing for public parking meters in Corvallis is one of the tools that can help achieve those goals.

Category: Parking
If we don’t have money, why are we funding low income housing which will not provide revenue?

Most of the funding for affordable housing comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), not local funds. The City enacted a new affordable housing Construction Excise Tax in 2016 which is assessed against building permits and not funded by property taxes. By state law, the City can utilize this excise tax revenue to support affordable housing.

Additionally, there is a strong desire for people who work in Corvallis to be able to live here. Without additional affordable housing opportunities, many people who work in Corvallis will continue to live outside the city and commute, adding to street congestion and carbon emissions.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Where does the money I pay in meter fees and citations go?

All fees collected from parking customers stays in the Parking Fund and is used to maintain, operate, and regulate parking facilities. Parking Fund money doesn’t go to pay for police cars or fill potholes or replace streetlights. Rates are adjusted as needed to ensure that the system is used consistent with adopted goals and practices and to ensure that the fees collected cover the costs associated with managing parking for the entire Corvallis community. The City provides a transparent accounting of the Parking Fund each year as part of the annual budget process.

Category: Parking
Will we lose on-street parking?

Removal of on-street parking is not typically part of a Neighborhood Bikeway. However, there may be a small number of locations where parking may need to be restricted. For example, areas adjacent to intersections or where a speed hump is installed.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Could a local gas tax be used to fund streets?

It could. Some communities around Oregon have been successful at implementing a local gas tax. However, there are challenges when one community in an area implements a local gas tax and other nearby communities don’t.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
What about emergency vehicle access?

Emergency vehicle access will not be affected. The Fire and Police Departments review plans for treatments like speed humps and traffic circles to ensure they are designed to maintain emergency vehicle access. By their nature, Neighborhood Bikeways are almost entirely on low volume residential streets, which are not considered backbone emergency response routes for Police and Fire.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are parking meter rates being raised?

Meter rates haven’t been raised since 2008, while costs to maintain the system have increased. The Parking Fund can no longer sustain needed operations without borrowing from the General Fund, which is not sustainable.

Category: Parking
How do meter rates in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

We completed a parking audit recently and meter rates were compared with Eugene, Hood River, Missoula MT, Salem, and Spokane WA. Corvallis’s current typical hourly rate is $0.50, the new typical hourly rate will be $1.00, and the hourly rate of the comparator cities averages $1.23. We are still below many of our comparator cities in terms of hourly prices.

Category: Parking
What is the City doing to attract new businesses to town? What about locating businesses in the Hewlett-Packard building targeted for demolition?

The City operates the Economic Development Office through an intergovernmental agreement with Benton County. The office is charged with implementing the Economic Development Strategy.

While its focus is primarily assisting existing businesses, the Economic Development Office routinely responds to recruitment leads from the State’s Economic Development Department (Business Oregon), as well as leads from other sources. The Economic Development Office also looks for businesses to fill vacant spaces throughout Benton County, including buildings on the HP Campus. Unfortunately, there just has not been a market for 62,000 square feet of office space in the building mentioned.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will other neighborhood streets see more traffic as a result?

Though proposed treatments are designed to achieve safer, slower speeds on Neighborhood Bikeway routes, we do not expect a significant diversion to nearby streets.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are citation fees being increased?

Fees for meter and overtime violations (also known as parking tickets) have not been raised since 2003. Similar to meter rates, these fees no longer pay to cover the costs associated with managing public parking for all users, both residents and visitors.

Category: Parking
Why doesn’t the City get out of PERS and move to a defined contribution plan for all new hires? Can the City Manager stop giving PERS benefits?

By Oregon law, the City may not exit the PERS system. Even if an exit was allowed, the City would have to pay its share of the PERS Unfunded Actuarial Liability since that cost is based on benefits already earned that PERS will be required to pay out.

The City Manager does not make any decisions with regard to PERS benefits. The PERS benefit structure is the responsibility of the Oregon Legislature. If you would like to see changes, we recommend you talk with your state legislators or the Governor’s office.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will my street be closed to cars?

No. All streets will remain open to vehicle traffic. Access to homes and businesses will be unaffected.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Are you installing designated bike lanes?

The vast majority of Neighborhood Bikeway streets will have shared roadway markings (also known as “sharrows”) to indicate that the streets are shared by people bicycling and driving. Some routes are on collectors or arterials for short segments and these connections will typically have already-existing bike lanes.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What about speed limits on these streets?

All local streets in Corvallis currently have a speed limit of 25 mph. Traffic calming may achieve lower speeds without changing posted speed limits.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Intersection Control Evaluation:

NW 9th Street & Buchanan Avenue 

Staff Response: 

NW 9th & Buchanan Intersection

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Road Safety Audit: 

NW Garfield Avenue / Appendix

Staff Response: NW Garfield Avenue 

Intersection Control Evaluation: 

NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue

Staff Response: NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue Intersection 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Staff Report (January 9, 2025 Council Work Session)

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, they will be made available at the links below.  

Road Safety Audit: <link>

Intersection Control Evaluation: <link>

Staff Response Document: <link>

Category: CIP Project Status template
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Road Safety Audit: 

Highland / Grant / Alexander 

Staff Response Documents:

NW Highland Drive 

NW Grant Avenue

SE Alexander Avenue

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Western Blvd - 35th St. Safety Evaluation 

35th St. Lighting Analysis

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Road Safety Audit: 

Conifer / Walnut 

Staff Response Documents: 

NE Conifer Boulevard

NE Walnut Boulevard

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Will these streets get repaved?

Some segments of Neighborhood Bikeways will see localized repairs or patching. However, due to limited budgets, the priority for major rehabilitation projects is the collector and arterial system. For more information on future resurfacing projects, please visit the Capital Improvement Program’s latest adopted plan. To learn more about how Corvallis streets are assessed and prioritized for repairs visit the Street Maintenance webpage. If you see a small scale repair like a pothole you can report it to the City via Report A Problem (select “Pothole”). City staff will assess the location and determine if it is able to be repaired.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I ride an e-micromobility device on the sidewalk?

No. Oregon State Law prohibits riding e-bikes and e-scooters on the sidewalk.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction.  Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project.  Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on.  For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input."  Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards.  An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project.  The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will also be provided below when available. To sign up for notices about upcoming TAT meetings, [ADD HOW TO SIGN UP FOR TAT MEETING NOTICES]. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD (meeting dates/materials will be added here when available) 

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Status template
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting (Took place June 27, 2024) 

TAT Meeting Presentation (with graphics)

TAT Comment Responses

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

For more information about traffic circles, visit the Traffic Circle FAQ page.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why is the speed limit changing on Circle Boulevard?

When Circle Boulevard was extended from Dale Drive to Harrison Boulevard, a temporary speed limit was posted by the City knowing an official speed zone investigation would be required by state law. This speed zone investigation was delayed for several years because of the Covid-19 pandemic. After the pandemic when traffic volumes rebounded to more historic levels, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), who regulates speed limit postings statewide, contacted the City to initiate the speed zone investigation process. Like other states, Oregon relies heavily on the measured operating speed of vehicles using the corridor when establishing speed limits. Public perception of speed, or the speed we may want people to drive, are not factors that the State considers when setting speed limits.  Due to the outcome of this recent speed zone investigation, speed limits along this portion of Circle Boulevard must be changed.

Information on speed zones in Oregon can be found here.

Information on speed zone investigation basics can be found here.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Status template
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Construction (current phase)

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Week of September 15, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

  • No work is planned this week.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 8, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • No work is planned for the next few weeks.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 1, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Waterline installation under Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will continue.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled start is 9/29.
    • Waterline testing, servicing and tie-overs of the new line to occur in early October.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • There will be a push to final pave the waterline trench before the rains come. Right now it is looking like that will be happening middle to late October. This will require a return in the spring to grind and final pave the remainder of Western and 35th.
  • Traffic patterns for game day, Saturday, August 30th
    • 35th Street will be closed north of the OSU Student Farm entrance (AKA Oak Creek Center for Urban Horticulture, OSU Apiary)
    • Access to the OSU Student Farm driveway will be two-way traffic on 35th Street from Western Blvd.
    • Both east side and west side sidewalks on 35th Street will be open between Sagebrush and Washington Way.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 9/1 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at the north side of Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be maintained, but there may be changes in whether it is the east or west side sidewalk that is open depending on how the waterline work is sequenced. Ped detours will be clearly marked.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 25, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Boring and insertion of waterline through casing beneath Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will be underway this week.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled  for 9/29.
    • Final asphalt trench patch to follow waterline testing and servicing.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • Timing for final paving is being evaluated. Given impacts to the schedule due to the delays with obtaining the railroad permitting, it is likely final paving will wait until Spring 2026.  More to come on paving status with next week’s update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/25 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits have been constructed at Oak Creek. The boring will begin Monday.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Resurfacing
    • Will continue on 35th, Western, and the short section of W. Hills once the waterline has been installed, tested and put into service.
    • Paving is anticipated to begin mid to late September. More defined dates on this to come in the next couple of weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/18 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

This is the last weekly update for 11th Street. The following work will occur next week and in the coming weeks as specified.

  • Striping around the traffic circle at 11th/Tyler is expected to be completed mid-week.
  • Installation of the speed hump between Taylor and Fillmore will be installed when the paving contractor comes back to complete paving on Western and 35th in mid- September.
  • The re-installation of the bike hoops in front of the Corvallis Bicycle Collective will be occurring this week.
  • Remaining landscape restorations are expected to occur in a few weeks once the weather improves to support seeding.
  • 11th Street will be opened to traffic. Expect there to be some short duration traffic pattern changes when the above-mentioned work occurs.

Week of August 11, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits will be under construction at Oak Creek.
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/18
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/11 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Deon, Western, West Hills and Ivy will remain open to traffic. Possible lane shift at 15th/Western intersection.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 11, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Grinding and paving will continue 8/11 thru 8/13.
  • Paving limits on 11th are from Van Buren to Fillmore.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to traffic during the day and reopened after working hours. Detours will be in place.

Week of August 4, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Aug 4th 35th St Sketch (click to view) 

Aug 4th Western 26 to 15 Sketch (click to view)

Aug 4th Western Hwy to W Hills Sketch (click to view)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will resume on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits either side of Oak Creek will take several days to construct
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/11
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Street grinding and paving will be occurring this week at the following locations.
    • Western Blvd – 8/4 to 8/5 between Hwy 34 and West Hills Rd.
    • Western Blvd – 8/6 to 8/7 between 26th and 15th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Western Blvd
      • 8/4 to 8/5 Western will be closed to traffic from Hwy 34 to West Hills Road. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
      • 8/6 to 8/7 Western will be closed to traffic from 26th to 15th. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
    • West Hills Rd
      • 8/4 will be closed to eastbound traffic, but open to west bound traffic. A detour will be in place for eastbound traffic that utilizes Hwy 34.
    • Ivy Pl.
      • 8/4 will be closed at Western. A detour will be in place that utilizes Deon
    • Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 4, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) is in progress at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk. These surfaces will be maintained as rock until 8/8 when base lift paving will occur.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to occur 8/11 and 8/12
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) will be occurring at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk.
    • 11th will be closed to thru traffic during the reconstruct excavation / prep activity. Open at end of shift. Intersections will remain rock until base lift paving on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to begin the week of 8/11
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 21, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 15th/Western
  • Electrical work on the 15th/Western traffic light will be occurring mid-week.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided in the next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week July 21st will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes to accommodate construction.
    • On Wednesday, 7/23, the intersection of Western Blvd and 15th St. will be reduced to one lane in each direction and controlled by 4-way stop. Temporary stop signs will be installed. The traffic signal will be turned off to accommodate electrical upgrades.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 21, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Construction of the traffic circle at 11th and Tyler will be ongoing.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.
  • Street reconstruction at the intersections of Polk/11th and Tyler/11th may get started by the end of the week.

Week of July 14, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Saw cutting will be occurring on Western between Stadium Ave and 15th.
    • Street dig outs will be occurring in Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work and or street dig outs will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when travelling in this location.
    • Flagging control on Western between 26th and 15th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • The new ADA ramps at Stadium/Western intersection will be open and fully accessible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 14, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Work will begin on construction of the Traffic circle located in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.
    • 11th street will be closed to through traffic between Harrison Blvd. and Polk Ave. during working hours.
    • Tyler Ave. will be closed to through traffic between 10th St. and 12th St. during working hours
    • During nonwork hours use extreme caution when maneuvering around the construction zone in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.

Week of July 7, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Western/Stadium Avenue
    • Sawcutting will be occurring on Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • Flagging control at the intersection of Western and 26th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 7, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 14th.

Week of June 30, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  30th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic, however lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 30, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 11th.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Ivy/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will begin;
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  23rd will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • Flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western will be in place at times.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Landscape restorations and cleanup will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 23rd will include;
    • 11th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours may still be in place a select location or two.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will start up again this week and will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work at Deon/Western and at Ivy/Western and possible work at Sagebrush/35th will be taking place and expected to last a couple of weeks.
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs were almost completed last week. They will be finishing up this week.
  • Some landscape restoration may be occurring this week behind and around the new concrete sidewalk.
  • Street paving is not planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • 11th Street will be opening back up to traffic toward the end of this week.
    • Pedestrian detours will be removed once the ADA sidewalk ramps are opened back up to travel.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week. Refer to the June 2nd weekly report for project status.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs will be finishing up this week.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 9th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted into the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week.

Schedules have been re-evaluated from last week’s update and will start up again as follows.

  • Week of June 16th – ADA work will begin on 35th Street
  • Week of June 30th – A full time closure will begin on 35th Street at Oak Creek Bridge to begin digging and preparations for the waterline boring at the creek. More details on the closure will be provided as we approach this date.
  • Preparations for the railroad crossing will commence following a completed crossing at Oak Creek contingent upon final rail permitting. More detailed information about street closures and detours will be provided for the rail crossings in a few weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks will be ongoing.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause will be for one more week.

Work is expected to begin again on 35th Street the week of June 2nd. Work will begin on the waterline crossing at Oak Creek. A full closure on 35th Street north of Sagebrush and south of Washington Way will be required to complete this work. The closure will be in place 24/7 from June 2nd through June 20th. Updates and details on this closure will be provided with next Friday’s posting. Local access to the few residents and OSU facilities in this closed section will be coordinated. Emergency access through this closure will be evaluated and communicated with Fire and dispatch.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp replacements will continue at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause is still anticipated at 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
    • No sketch this week. All roads will be open as specified.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be starting Monday on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp removal and replacement work at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 12, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

The work on 35th/Western will be taking a pause starting mid-week and will resume once our contractor has their final railroad right of entry permitting in place. Estimated pause is going to be 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Temporary paving of the of the remaining trenches will be occurring early next week at two locations.
    • On Deon Drive at Western Blvd.
    • On Sagebrush Drive at 35th Street.
  • General clean-up and opening of all bike lanes and sidewalks will be occurring prior to the pause.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 12th will include;
    • West Hills Road, Western Blvd. and 35th Street will all be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Sagebrush Drive will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Deon Drive will be in place.
    • Deon Drive, south of Western, will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Ivy Place will be in place.
  • Emergency access will be maintained during trench paving on Sagebrush and on Deon Drive. No impacts to CTS or Beaver Bus is expected.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of May 12, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work on 11th Street is planned for this week; however, work is expected to begin the week of May 19. More detailed information will be provided with next week’s update.

Week of May 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will continue on 35th Street this week.
    • The focus for the week will be to construct the water pipeline on 35th Street, north of Sagebrush Drive, and continue up to the bridge at Oak Creek.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 5th will include;
    • West Hills Road will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western Blvd. will remain open under signal control at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Sagebrush Drive will remain open at 35th Street, south, to Western Blvd.
    • 35th Street north-south travel will remain closed to thru traffic between Western and Washington Way during working hours, and will open back up to normal travel at the end of each work day.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western Blvd. to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison Blvd. to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalks.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd 
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 28, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will be occurring in the 35th/Western intersection and then moving north into 35th Street.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of April 28th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western will remain open under signal control or may be flagged at times at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the  highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd.
    • Detours for the 35th Street closure will be in place during working hours. 35th Street will be opened back up to travel at the end of each working day. Typical work days have been running between 7 am and 4: 30 pm. The contractor has approval to work until 6 pm if needed.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalk. The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will remain closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 21, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Potholing and exploratory work into the intersection of 35th/Western is expected for Thursday and Friday of this week. Our Contractor is preparing to continue with pipeline installation into the intersection and moving north into 35th Street for the week of April 28th.
  • Road dig-outs and repairs will continue on Western Blvd between Ivy Place and the highway Monday thru Wednesday of this week.
  • Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 21st will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Monday thru Wednesday - A road closure and detour on Western Blvd. between Ivy Pl. and Highway 34 will be in place to allow for the continuation of the road dig-outs discussed above.  Westbound traffic on Western will need to use West Hills Rd. to 53rd St., and eastbound traffic will need to use 35th Street from the highway to get back to Western to avoid this specific closure.
    • Thursday thru Friday - The potholing and exploratory work mentioned above will require flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western. We will be adding signage at the entrances to the Western Building off of 35th to help keep these access points clear.
    • Normal traffic flow will be re-established at the end of each work day throughout the project.
    • 35th Street is slated for closure between Western Blvd and Washington Way starting on Monday, April 28th. This will be an extended closure on 35th Street to accommodate the water pipe installation there. More detailed information regarding the 35th Street closure will be provided with the next update, including how work will progress and how local access will be impacted. Emergency vehicle access on 35th Street will be maintained.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed at times and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. As mentioned above, additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Building clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be modified to account for the detours.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service may be modified to account for detours and closures. More to come on this with the next weekly update.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

Week of April 14, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will continue along Western and possibly into the intersection of 35th/Western. Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 14th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions, but may be flagged at times.
    • A lane shift and/or lane closure on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place, and single lane east-west travel will be controlled via flagging.  
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western the signal will be turned off and controlled via flagging. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • This first closure at 35th/Western intersection is coming up the week of April 28th.  More detailed information regarding the intersection closure will be provided in the next update.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. Additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Bld. clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

[Pre-Notice] Week of May 19, 2025 - Start of Construction (11th Street)

  • Our Contractor is planning to mobilize and begin work in mid-May on 11th Street. Work is expected to last through mid-June. Our contractor will clean up the area following their month of prep work, and will return in August for the street paving.
  • The work that occurred this past week with the saw cutting was a pre-cursor of the work to come.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
  • Please notify me if you have any specific needs that I should know about.

The next 11th Street update will be distributed a couple of weeks ahead of the work starting, and then every week while work is active in the area.

Week of April 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will move out of West Hills Rd and into Western Blvd this week.  Installation will approach the intersection of 35th/Western.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 5th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • A lane shift on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place.  East and west travel on Western will be maintained. As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off.  Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • Trenching will be crossing Deon St. entrance from Western (north leg) at some point. There will be no access to Western from Deon (north leg) while pipe is being installed. The contractor will reopen Deon St. as quickly as possible. Pipe installation and backfill associated with this closure at Deon should last a few hours. Access from Sagebrush will remain open. NOTE: Fire will be able to access Deon from Western in an emergency.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

April 3, 2025 – Special Update (35th/Western)

Pacific Excavation will begin water pipeline installation tomorrow, April 3rd. This is work ahead of schedule and will result in the following traffic impacts;

  • West Hills Road will be closed  between Hanson Street and Western Boulevard for a couple of days for the start of pipe installation.
  • A detour for traffic on West Hills Road will be in place as follows;
    • Eastbound traffic on West Hills road will need to use 53rd Street to Highway 34, and then either Western/35th/26th/15th to get back to Western Boulevard.
    • Westbound traffic on Western Blvd will need to continue on Western Blvd to Highway 34 to 53 Street and then back onto West Hills Rd.
    • Bike and pedestrian travel will still be permitted on West Hills Road. Follow the signing for this.
    • School Bus and Fire access will be maintained on West Hills Road. Our contractor will make the necessary accommodations to keep this area accessible to those needs.
  • Once construction has moved beyond this intersection of West Hills Road and Western Blvd, the detour will no longer be in place.

Week of March 24, 2025 – Start of Construction (35th/Western)

  • Work will be occurring on Western Blvd and West Hills Road, between 35th Street and Hanson Street.
  • Contractor will begin mobilization on Monday, March 24th.
  • Work likely will include surveying, saw cutting, and potholing in preparation for waterline installation.
  • Waterline pipe installation in Western and West Hills is tentatively scheduled to begin the week of March 31st, and will start at Hanson and work easterly toward 35th Street.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of March 24th will include;
    • A lane shift on Western. East and west travel on Western and on West Hills will be maintained. We plan to restore all lanes of travel on Western and West Hills by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, the intersection will change to a single lane of travel in each direction. Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
What is a TSAP?

A TSAP is a document that reviews transportation-related crashes involving vehicles, pedestrians, or bicycles to find trends and identify strategies to reduce crashes throughout a city. TSAPs are comprehensive safety plans aimed at reducing and eliminating serious injury and fatal crashes, and use data analysis to characterize roadway safety problems and strengthen a community’s approach through projects and strategies that address the most significant safety risks.

The TSAP developed through this process will serve as a foundation for future transportation safety projects and initiatives, helping the City of Corvallis identify priorities and secure funding to implement solutions over time. It is important to understand that the benefits of the plan will be realized incrementally, and the planning process itself is a critical step. While the adoption of the TSAP is a milestone, it is not an endpoint; successful implementation will depend on available funding and prioritizing efforts to address the most critical safety needs first.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
What is slurry seal?

Slurry seal is a petroleum-based emulsion product mixed with fine aggregate rock to provide a new surface to an existing asphalt street. It slows down aging and significantly reduces vehicle road noise. 

Using slurry in conjunction with a crack seal program provides the most cost-effective method to prevent premature aging. First, sealant is applied to any cracks in the street to prevent water from entering the sub-base and causing further deterioration. Then a layer of slurry is applied. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
What vehicle movements are being restricted at Tyler Avenue and 2nd Street?

All left turns will be prohibited as well as straight through movement on Tyler Avenue. Vehicles will still have the ability to make right turns into, and from, Tyler Avenue.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

Category: Traffic Circles
Why is ODOT providing the speed zone investigation? Does the City have any control?

Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Will a shared e-scooter or bikeshare program be coming to Corvallis?

Oregon State University launched a one-year Shared Micromobility Pilot Project in August 2024. Current City Municipal Code prohibits shared micromobility to be parked in the public right-of-way, including on the sidewalk, in the street, or in a park strip (the space between the street and the sidewalk). Shared micromobility is allowed to travel on City streets, within the service boundary, and to be parked in designated areas on private property.

If you see a shared scooter or bicycle that is parked in the public right-of-way, please report it to hello@veoride.com. Please include the location, vehicle ID number and mention OSU in your email.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I adopt a segment of path that is not identified on the map?

If it is a city-owned paved path, we’ll consider requests. However, if the path is maintained by ODOT, Benton County or a private entity, it is beyond the scope of the City’s program. The City also has an Adopt-A-Park Program facilitated by the Parks & Recreation department that includes unpaved trails. For information about that program, visit: https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/parksrec/page/parks-recreation-volunteer...

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Do I need a license or insurance to operate an e-micromobility device?

No insurance, license or registration is required.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Do the search results include the contents of PDFs and other documents?

Yes.  The website indexes web pages as well as PDFs, Microsoft Office documents, and text documents.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
How large of a bike will fit in the cargo bike locker stalls?

Four of the locker stalls will fit a bicycle up to 87” in length. The locker doors are 45” tall and 30.75” wide.

Category: Bike Lockers
Is it safe?

When the slurry is dry, it is safe. When it is first applied, the slurry is in a liquid form consisting of asphalt and rock. Because liquid asphalt is potentially hazardous to health and is very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings, please keep children from playing near the street until the slurry material dries. Pets should be kept from running free during the slurry application for their safety. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Registering to Vote

To be a registered voter, you must be 18 years of age on the date of the next election, a resident of the State of Oregon (and the City of Corvallis for local measures and candidates), and a citizen of the United States.

If you have not been registered to vote previously in the State, you must file 20 days prior to the next election date. If you have voted previously within the state, you need to check with Benton County Elections and you may be eligible to vote immediately. All prospective voters register with Benton County.

Category: Elections
What is a Home Energy Score?

A Home Energy Score is a report created by a certified home energy assessor that provides information on estimated home energy use, associated costs, and provides options to cost-effectively improve your home’s energy efficiency. Each Home Energy Score is shown on a simple one-to-ten scale, where a ten represents the most efficient homes. See a sample Home Energy Score report here. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Provider?

A person who furnishes temporary overnight lodging is considered a lodging provider. Lodging facilities includes any hotel, motel, inn, condominium, house, cabin, apartment, public or private dormitory, fraternity, sorority, public or private club, space in a mobile home or trailer park, tent camping locations, or similar structures or spaces or portions thereof so occupied; provided such occupancy is for less than a 30-day period.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the Rental Housing Fee?

The Rental Housing Fee was created in 1999 in response to the increasing number of rentals in Corvallis. The fee is used is to improve housing standards through education and assistance.  The objectives  are to: (1) Assist community members in finding the rental related resources; (2) Educate through partnerships and outreach, to increase knowledge about fair housing regulations, Landlord / Tenant law, and the Corvallis Livability; (3) Inform by collecting data to improve the City’s understanding of local rental housing trends.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What makes this traffic circle different than the circle that was removed at 10th Street and Grant Avenue years ago?

10th Street and Grant Avenue are both classified as collector streets with marked vehicle, bike, and parking lanes. Collector streets have higher volumes of vehicles traveling through the intersection compared to the intersection of two local streets, such as 11th Street and Tyler Avenue. This intersection, compared to 10th Street and Grant Avenue, shows roughly 1/6th the amount of vehicle throughput, making a traffic circle an appropriate treatment. Neighborhood traffic circles already exist within our community where two local streets intersect, such as at 11th Street and C Avenue.

Category: Traffic Circles
What speeds are changing?

The speed zone investigation for Circle Boulevard was conducted by ODOT between Kings Boulevard and Harrison Boulevard. Based on the outcome of the investigation, ODOT is requiring several changes to speed limits along this corridor. The existing and new speed limits for this portion of Circle are:

 

Segment

Existing Speed Posting

New Speed Posting

Kings to Lantana

25 / 30 MPH

25 MPH

Lantana to Dale

25 MPH

30 MPH

Dale to Harrison

25 MPH

35 MPH

 

A copy of the ODOT’s Speed Zone Order and Speed Investigation Report can be reviewed by clicking on the links provided. To reiterate, public input is not considered under the law as part of speed investigations and does not affect their outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Where are the bike racks located?

The bike racks are located on the north side of the Public Works compound, at 1245 NE 3rd St.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where can I dispose of unused, unwanted, and/or expired medication?

To find nearby locations visit one of the following websites:

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office also organizes an event every April. Click below for more info. 

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Why are vehicle movements at 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue being restricted?

Tyler Avenue is designated as a Neighborhood Bikeway and is currently being constructed. The intersection of 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue is difficult to cross for people walking and biking due to the street often being used as a cut through for vehicles traveling through town. The installation of a median island will reduce cut through traffic and vehicle volumes on residential streets, as well as provide a safe space for people walking and biking to stop midway through the intersection. It will also reduce conflicts between turning vehicles, creating a safer intersection for all.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why are we using ranked choice voting?

After Benton County’s successful use of ranked choice voting, in 2022 the City adopted the ranked choice voting method for elections for Mayor and City Council races with three or more candidates and for advisory questions.

 

 

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What properties are required to register?

All residential rental properties are required to register. A residential rental property is considered a property with one or more dwelling units that generates rental income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I register and update my rental property information with the City?

Visit www.corvallisoregon.gov/RHPupdate to register or update your rental property information or to request a Section 8 fee waiver. Please note: Failure to register a rental property can result in up to a $1000 fine per rental unit.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Can I reserve a locker in advance or check online for availability?

A reservation feature is not currently available, but you can view the map on the Movatic App to see continually refreshed openings.

Category: Bike Lockers
Can the City prevent changes in the posted speed limit?

The City does not have the ability to change the outcome of the speed zone investigation. ODOT conducted the study per the requirements of state law which considers actual measured speeds when establishing posted speeds. However, in conjunction with ODOT performing the investigation, the City reviewed existing signs and striping on this corridor. The City is planning to implement several changes to coincide with the new speed limit signage in order to mitigate some of the concerns surrounding changes to posted speeds. When the City installs the new speed limit signs, we will also provide the following enhancements:

  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Lantana Drive.
  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Duniway Drive.
  • A new marked crosswalk and pedestrian crossing signs at Dale Drive.
  • New advisory speed signs added to the existing speed bump signage. Advisory speed signs will inform drivers that a speed lower than the legal limit is recommended as vehicles approach the bumps.
  • A new radar speed feedback sign addressing northbound traffic as it transitions from the 35 MPH to the 30 MPH posted speed south of Witham Hill Drive
Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Does my medication need to be in its original container?

No. It can be in a sealed bag.

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I mark my ballot with ranked choice voting?

Voters mark their ballots in order of preference – 1st choice, 2nd choice, 3rd choice.

  • Use blue or black pen.
  • Fill in the ovals next to the candidates of your choice.
  • Make only one choice per column.
  • Do not skip columns.
  • You may rank as few candidates as you would like.
  • You may rank up to three candidates.

Voting instructions from Benton County.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How is a Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) different from a Transportation System Plan (TSP)?

A Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) and a Transportation System Plan (TSP) work together to improve how people get around safely and efficiently. The TSP sets broad safety priorities within the context of the overall transportation system—like roads, sidewalks, and bike paths—planning for growth and future needs. The TSAP builds on these priorities by diving deeper into safety issues, using data-driven methods and different metrics to identify safety problems and recommend targeted solutions. By focusing on crash prevention and reducing serious injuries or fatalities, the TSAP complements the TSP to ensure a comprehensive approach to transportation safety. Together, they create a safer and more effective system for everyone.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
If I search for a phrase (e.g. alarm permit), will the results only show exact matches?

No.  By default, the search results will show matches for any word within the phrase.  In this example, you would receive results for all web pages and documents that contained either the word alarm or the word permit or both.

In order to search on an exact phrase, enclose your search phrase in quotations.  The search results for "alarm permit" will show matches for that exact phrase.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Initiative and Referendum Information

The initiative process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 15% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is generally initiated by citizens. Examples include the measure to allow smoking in bars, the recall of an elected City official or a Charter amendment.

The referendum process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 10% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is used to refer legislation adopted by the governing body to a direct vote. Corvallis City Charter, Chapter 6, Section 32  

Initiatives and referenda are only permitted in May and November elections. House Bill 2957, passed at the 2015 Regular Session

Category: Elections
Is there a Rental Housing fee?

Yes. An annual fee is assessed for each rental unit based on Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065. The fee increases by one dollar every odd year. Property owners who receive partial or full payment through a Section 8 voucher may request a fee waiver.

The fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What are the benefits of a Home Energy Score?

A home energy score is an informational tool that provides potential home buyers with knowledge about how energy efficient a home is. Unlike getting a sample utility bill for that home, which measures individual behavior as much as efficiency, a home energy score more accurately represents how much energy will be lost or retained when a resident heats or cools the home.  There is also research that suggests that mandatory energy usage disclosure policies incentivize homeowners to invest in energy efficiency upgrades in their homes. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Intermediary?

A lodging intermediary is a person, other than a provider, that facilitates the retail sale and charges for the occupancy of short term lodging. Lodging intermediaries include, but are not limited to, online travel companies, travel agents, and tour outfitter companies (such as Airbnb or Expedia). 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the purpose of a traffic circle?

Traffic circles are effective at reducing crashes at intersections because there are fewer conflict points. They also reduce speeds at the intersection and multiple traffic circles can help reduce speeds along an entire corridor.

Category: Traffic Circles
What Lodging Intermediaries are registered with the City?
  • AIRBNB, INC
  • EGENCIA, LLC
  • FERNWOOD CIRCLE
  • HOTEL TONIGHT
  • HOTELS.COM, LP
  • HOTWIRE, INC
  • NAT COR HOUSING
  • ORBITZ, LLC
  • PRICELINE.COM
  • TRAVELSCAPE, LLC
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
When can I pickup/return the racks?

The Public Works compound is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Borrowers can pick up and return racks only during open hours.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where and when can I pick up equipment?

Equipment can be picked up from the Public Works admin office, at 1245 NE 3rd St, Monday - Friday, between 8 am and 5 pm. Pickup should be arranged ahead of time with the Program Coordinator.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Who is required to get a Home Energy Score?

As currently proposed, if your home is within the Corvallis city limits and you are publicly listing or advertising your home for sale in any manner, you will need to get a Home Energy Score and Report before listing it. Common ways people advertise a home for sale include online listings, posters, yard signs and ads in print publications. Some homeowners are exempted from getting a Home Energy Score. Please see below for examples of exemptions. 

If you are selling your home privately between two parties and the home is never publicly advertised for sale, then the requirements do NOT apply.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for paying the lodging tax?

For the privilege of occupancy in any lodging, the occupant shall pay the Lodging Tax.

The Lodging Tax Collector shall remit the Lodging Tax for the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and State of Oregon to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will access to my street be affected?

During the slurry seal application, access to your street will be interrupted for a maximum of ten (10) hours — for one day only — unless the contractor is delayed due to equipment failure or rainy conditions. You may not park or drive on the street from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The post office, garbage service, and 911 emergency dispatch will be notified before work begins. We do not expect any interruption of mail delivery, garbage collection or emergency services. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will there be any impacts to parking?

One parking stall will be removed at the southwest corner of 4th Street and Harrison Boulevard. This vehicle space is part of a realignment of the street with the removal of the concrete bulb out and trees, providing a straight path for automobiles traveling along Harrison Boulevard. No other parking along Harrison Boulevard will be affected. Work on Tyler Avenue is limited to the corners of the intersections, where parking is already prohibited.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Is the Rental Housing Program fee pro-rated?

The RHP fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full RHP fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Are the existing speed bumps being removed?

No. The existing speed bumps will remain in place and advisory speed signs will be added informing drivers that a lower speed is recommended around speed bumps compared to the new overall posted speed.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Are there any incentive programs for buying an e-micromobility device?

There are currently no incentives available for electric mobility devices open in Corvallis/Benton County. However, there are funds available for other neighboring communities and states. Keep apprised of the revolving door of funding by finding a website that tracks this information. We like this one from RideReview. 

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I exclude a word from a search (e.g. all pages that have the word "alarm" but not the word "permit"?

Yes.   You can exclude words by using the minus sign (-).   In order to find the results of all pages that have alarm in the result but not permit, you would search for alarm -permit.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Does my vote still count if I rank only one or only two candidates?

Yes, your vote will still count if you rank only one or only two candidates. However, your ballot has more power if you rank all three choices. If you choose not to, your ranked vote may not be counted in later rounds if your top candidate(s) are eliminated and the lower choice position(s) are left blank.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I dispose of medicine discretely?

You may mark out your name or any other identifiable information

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I transport the racks by bike?

Step 1: Place one of the base racks with a coupler onto the bike trailer, making sure that the rack is centered. Stack up to 3 additional racks (without couplers) on top.

Step 2: Affix the hitch to a rear bike rack. The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team can provide hitches upon request.

Step 3: Attach the coupler to the hitch.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a bicycle or motor vehicle?
  1. Slow your speed as you approach the intersection. 15mph is ideal.
  2. Stop in advance of the sidewalk if pedestrians are crossing.
  3. Yield to vehicles that arrive first at the intersection.
    Yield to vehicles on the right if arriving at the same time.
  4. Keep to the right and travel around the traffic circle in a counterclockwise direction.

Traffic circle navigation

Category: Traffic Circles
Political Action Committees

Political Action Committees (PACs) are formed for both candidates and measures; they can be either in support of or opposition to the candidate or measure. PACs must be formed and registered with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division before any contributions are accepted or monies expended.  Once the election is over and all monies are accounted for, PACs should be discontinued. Please visit the Secretary of State Political Action Committee page for more information.

Category: Elections
What can I do to reduce my exposure to PFAS? 

Small changes can reduce you and your family’s exposure to PFAS chemicals. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to PFAS, but there are ways to limit it. For example: avoid re-heating foods in fast food packaging and take-out containers; look for take-out food packaging that is certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI); replace non-stick cookware with alternatives that don’t contain PFAS; look for “PFAS-Free” when buying waterproof or stain-resistant items, and dental floss, cosmetics, or other personal care products; and choose household cleaning product with EPA Safer Choice, UL Eco-Logo, or Green Seal labels. 

Category: PFAS
What equipment is available for checkout?
  • Reflective vest (10)
  • Trash grabbers (11)
  • Work gloves (5)
  • Limb loppers (3)
  • Pruners (2)
  • Rakes (2)
  • Shovel (1)
  • Standard Broom (1)
  • Push Broom (1)
Category: Adopt-A-Path
What items can I leave in a bike locker?

In addition to your bike, you can store gear like a helmet, bags, bike tools, bike clothing and shoes. 

Category: Bike Lockers
What rental units are subject to the RHP annual fee?

Any residential rental unit within Corvallis city limits is subject to the fee. There are two exemptions, a landlord may request a fee waiver if they accept Section 8 (staff confirms this before the fee is waived) or if the rental unit has a deed restriction that requires the unit to be rented to low income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What would a Home Energy Score Ordinance mean for homeowners in Corvallis?

A Home Energy Score Ordinance would require homeowners to get a home energy score from a certified home energy assessor before selling their home, if the home is going to be publicly advertised for sale.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for collecting the lodging tax?

Transient lodging providers and transient lodging intermediaries must collect and remit the tax. Under the law, whoever collects payment for occupancy is responsible for collecting and remitting the tax as the Lodging Tax Collector.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water will damage both the appearance and sealing capabilities of the slurry. Please refrain from watering lawns, washing cars, or engaging in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day your street is slurry-sealed.

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will street trees be removed as part of this project?

Yes. A total of 13 existing street trees will be removed along the north side of Harrison and corners of 3rd and 4th streets. All other trees within the project limit will be protected. The City of Corvallis has collaborated with the ODOT project team, and landscape architect, to mitigate the removal of the trees with project landscaping and tree replacement with 13, Red Rage Tupelo trees. 

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Are there any prohibited medicines?

Yes. These items are prohibited:

  • No sharps
  • No illicit drugs
  • No herbal remedies
  • No vitamins or supplements
  • No personal care products
  • No medical devices
  • No batteries
  • No mercury-containing thermometers
  • No pet pesticide products
  • No animal medicines
  • No biologics
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Campaign Finance

Political Action Committees (PACs) file contribution and expense reports with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division on an established schedule. 

If candidates act as their own Treasurers and expect to spend or receive less than $750 during the entire calendar year, reports do not need to be filed. If candidates subsequently exceed that amount, reports do need to be filed.

Please visit the Secretary of State Campaign Finance page and review the Campaign Finance Quick Guide for instructions and a schedule of filing deadlines.

Category: Elections
Does my vote count if I vote for the same candidate three times?

Yes, your vote will still count, but it will not help your candidate's chances of winning. If a single candidate is selected for all three choices, it will be tallied as if you only ranked a first-choice candidate.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How far off of the path am I responsible for?

You are responsible for cleaning up the 3 feet adjacent to the path. No trespassing on private property is allowed.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
How is the TSAP funded?

The TSAP is primarily funded through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) federal grant program, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Corvallis was awarded $664,000 for this initiative with the City contributing a required match of $110,000 plus $56,000 in in-kind support. This will build off of the strong foundation set in the 2019 TSP planning effort. This alignment with past planning efforts creates a unique opportunity for Corvallis to fill existing safety related gaps and advance the City’s transportation safety objectives through a data-driven, equity-oriented approach.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a pedestrian?
  • Watch for incoming vehicles.
  • Wait until traffic yields to you when crossing.
  • Do not cross to the middle of the circle.
Category: Traffic Circles
What are the dimensions of the racks?

Length: 10’, Width: 44”, Height: 36”

Weight: 65 pounds

A minimum of 4 feet of space between the racks is recommended for comfortable maneuvering of bicycles.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
What can I do to reduce my exposure to phthalates?

Small changes at home can reduce your exposure to phthalates. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to phthalates, but you can try to reduce it. For example: microwave and store foods and liquids in glass containers. Avoid plastic food containers and plastic wrap with the Recycling Label #3 on it. Steer clear of the words “fragrance,” “perfume,” or “parfum” in their ingredients. Seek out phthalate-free cosmetics found in the Skin Deep® product clearinghouse. Look for products with EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, and Eco Logo certification labels that are phthalate-free. These are safer choices!

Category: PFAS
What happens if I exceed the maximum rental time on the locker?

If you exceed the maximum rental time of 7 days, the rental automatically ends and the door is locked (with everything inside). In order to retrieve your bike and any items in the locker, you will need to contact us.

Category: Bike Lockers
What if my home gets a low score?

That's fine. A Home Energy Score is simply an informational tool for property owners. There is no "passing" or "failing" a home energy score and there are no requirements that go along with a score. Your report will show you or any future property owners where there are opportunities for increased energy efficiency. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is the definition of a "rental unit"?

The term “unit” is the equivalent to the number of individual leases held by a tenant or tenants. For example, if a five bedroom house is rented on a single agreement, it is one unit. If the same house is rented on 5 separate agreements, it is five units.  

Category: Rental Housing Program
What is the expected completion date?

The project will go through summer 2025.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
When will the new speed zone signage and enhancements be installed?

The work will be completed later this year as weather and staffing allow.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What else can you do?
  • Only buy enough medication that you can use before it expires.
  • If you know a friend who uses the same over-the-counter medication, consider combining purchases.
  • Ask your pharmacist if the drugs will become dangerous after expiration. Some drugs lose some potency, but can still provide some benefits.
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Can I give multiple candidates the same ranking?

No. If multiple candidates are chosen for the same ranking, the voter’s intent cannot be determined, and the ballot will not be considered.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Can I rent a locker without a smartphone?

Unfortunately, there is no way to rent a locker without a smartphone.

Category: Bike Lockers
City of Corvallis Campaign Sign Regulations

Political signs shall be erected and maintained entirely on private property with the consent of the occupant of the premises.

No signs are permitted on public property, including rights-of-way, streets, boulevards, bridges, rights-of-way to bridges and streets, medians, parks, planting strips in front of parks, and any other public property.

The area between the sidewalk and the street is not private property; it is a public right-of-way and signs are not allowed.

Political signs shall not be erected prior to 60 days from the applicable election and shall be removed within 15 days after the election.

Corvallis Land Development Code Sections 4.7.50 and 4.7.70

Category: Elections
How do I learn if racial restrictive covenants appear in my property's deed and CCRs?

The documents you signed when you purchased your home will include the deed and CCRs. A close review of these documents will reveal whether racial restrictive covenants were applied to your property. Note that the restrictions are often embedded and may be limited to a single sentence or short paragraph.  

If you are not able to locate the documents, you can obtain a copy of the deed from the Benton County Records & Election Department or by contacting a title company. A fee may apply.

Benton County Records & Election Department

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
How do I signal at a traffic circle?

A traffic circle is similar to an intersection with signals in which you need to signal the direction in which you are going to take. When turning right, you need to signal right, when going straight you do not signal, and when turning left or doing a U-turn you signal left. Whenever you exit a traffic circle you need to signal right to show you are exiting. Cyclists should use hand signals.

Category: Traffic Circles
If my home receives a low score, will it be harder to sell?

Low Home Energy Scores won't necessarily impact your ability to sell your home. Energy performance is just one of many factors people consider when buying a home. The information from a score helps both a seller and buyer understand the opportunities to improve energy efficiency and lower utility costs. It also allows potential buyers to understand how much monthly utility costs will be.

Category: Home Energy Score
Only 6 PFAS are required to be tested in drinking water according to the EPA. What about the others?

It should be noted that testing for PFAS compounds is currently limited. The City is testing for 29 PFAS compounds, including the six  compounds that the EPA is going to be regulating in drinking water.  The City is monitoring advancements in laboratory capabilities and will expand its PFAS compound testing as the industry shifts with improved analysis methodologies over time.

Category: PFAS
What about future speed zone investigations?

The City of Corvallis has been awarded a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant from the State of Oregon.  In addition to developing a transportation safety action plan, this funding will be used to produce a speed limit investigation framework.  This framework will include guidance and criteria that will be used by the City to guide future requests to ODOT for speed zone investigations.  One likely candidate is the Circle Boulevard corridor extending east of Kings where it is anticipated that a study may result in a reduction in the posted speed limit consistent with the reduction being implemented west of Kings.   

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What do I do with the trash that is collected?

If it is a large amount of trash, you can arrange a pickup by City staff and place the bagged trash by the side of the path at a designated location. Otherwise, please bring the trash bags back to Public Works at the time of your equipment return.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
What is the amount of the tax?

In the City of Corvallis, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 9 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.

In Benton County, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 3 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.  For Benton County, there is an administrative fee reimbursement of 5 percent of the tax due.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the mechanism that allows the City to charge a fee for rental properties?

The Rental Housing fee is established in Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065.  The code states the annual fee will increase by $1 every odd numbered year. 

Category: Rental Housing Program
Does anyone qualify for an exemption from a Home Energy Score requirement?

As currently proposed, under some circumstances, a homeowner may qualify for an exemption from the Home Energy Score requirement. As a reminder, the Corvallis Home Energy Score ordinance is still a draft and has not been finalized. The following are examples of exemptions in the proposed ordinance. This may not be the full or final list. Some exemptions may be applicable for properties sold under the following circumstances:

  • Transfer of title due to inheritance
  • Involuntary transfer of title resulting from default on an obligation secured by real property 
  • Title change due to marriage or divorce
  • Condemnation of the property
  • Other involuntary changes of title 
  • Certain situations of undue hardship for the seller
Category: Home Energy Score
How do I appeal my RHP late penalty fee?

Residential rental properties within the City of Corvallis are assessed an annual Rental Housing fee. The fee is assessed on a per unit basis. Account balances that become 91 days old and 61 days past due are considered delinquent and are assessed a penalty fee of $100 per unit.

A property owner may appeal the penalty fee. Appeals are considered on a case-by-case basis. To appeal the penalty fee, please follow the directions below:

  • If your total statement is $400 or less, contact the City Finance Department by phone (541-766-6990) or by email.
  • If your total statement is $401 or more, submit your request to Housing and Neighborhood Services (HNS) Division here. A

  

 

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I vote for a write-in candidate?

You may use the Write-In space to enter a candidate’s name that is not on the ballot and fill in an oval to rank your choice.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How often does the City of Corvallis test for PFAS?

Water systems have five years to comply with the EPA rule (see EPA Rule FAQ). The City of Corvallis does the following:  

  • Drinking water: The City of Corvallis did voluntary PFAS and phthalates testing in drinking water twice in 2023 and will continue to test twice a year in 2024. PFAS and phthalates have not been detected in Corvallis drinking water. The official PFAS and phthalates tests required by the EPA will occur sometime in the Fall of 2024.

 

  • Wastewater: The City tested wastewater for PFAS and phthalates four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024. The City also tested biosolids from the wastewater treatment plant four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024, to further investigate sources and levels PFAS.
Category: PFAS
What charges and fees are taxable?

Gross lodging receipts are all amounts received, including all non-optional fees, other than taxes that are paid for lodging in Oregon. Rent includes all fees and assessments based on the number of occupants, human and pets (including but not limited to cleaning, pet, or smoking fees) for which payment is not optional to the occupant. If the operator offers a lodging package that includes something that is not associated with the actual lodging or is provided by a third party, the rent is the price of the package less the cost of the non-lodging portion of the package.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What happens if an emergency vehicle comes through the traffic circle?

Do not stop inside the traffic circle. If you have not yet entered the traffic circle, pull to the right and let the emergency vehicles pass you. If you are in the traffic circle, exit as normal, then pull to the right and let the emergency vehicle pass you.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the process to remove discriminatory restrictions?

The laws passed in 2018 aim to ease the removal of discriminatory restrictions from property records.  Requests are submitted to the State's area Circuit Court using the procedure detailed in ORS 93.274. Efforts are underway to refine this process and our website will be updated as information becomes available. Please note this is not a City process. All inquiries should be directed to the Benton County Circuit Court.

Benton County Circuit Court

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
Are all cleaning fees taxable?

It depends on the nature of the charge. If the fee is non-refundable, it is part of what the guest pays for occupancy and is therefore subject to Lodging Tax. Conversely, if the cleaning fee is fully refundable or withheld only for specific damages, it is not subject to Lodging Tax..

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I slow traffic in my neighborhood?

It Starts with You

  • Set the pace! Drive the speed limit. A National Highway Safety Council survey found 70% of drivers acknowledge they speed themselves.
  • Utilize on-street parking. A narrow street can slow traffic. However, when possible please also be mindful of moving your vehicle on scheduled street sweeping days for your area. Learn more about sweeping here.
  • If you have a neighborhood or homeowner’s association (HOA) ask them to include slow speed reminders in your neighborhood newsletters.
  • Allow more time for travel. Accidents happen at any speed, but injuries and damage are more significant at speeds over 25 mph.
  • Directed Patrol for targeted enforcement may be requested from Police here. However, please keep in mind that the ability for Police to respond is dependent on staffing and many other competing needs to keep the community safe. 

Signs and enforcement can only do so much to influence driver behavior. The most effective speed control is a safety conscious culture.

 

Category: Traffic Engineering
I can't afford to pay for an inspection. What do I do?

The City does not want to place undue financial hardship on lower income homeowners. Addressing this is a top priority for staff and Council. City staff is exploring ways to assist lower income home owners obtain a Home Energy Score. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I make a mistake?

If you make a mistake in marking your ballot, place an X over the mismarked oval and fill in the oval of your preferred choice and circle that oval.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What is the new EPA rule?

The new EPA rule—the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR)--establishes   legally enforceable levels for six PFAS known to occur individually and/or as mixtures in drinking water. EPA will regulate five PFAS as individually. They are PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA. EPA will regulate four PFAS as a mixture: PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS. PFAS can often be found together and in varying combinations as mixtures. Decades of research show mixtures of different chemicals can have additive health effects, even if the individual chemicals are each present at lower levels. With this rule, EPA has set limits for these chemicals individually and/or as mixtures. See the following FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information.

Category: PFAS
Will a large truck fit?

Yes, the apron of the traffic circle is built with a height so that it can be driven over if need be. It should be done very slowly to prevent damage to the vehicle.

Category: Traffic Circles
How can the speed limit be changed on a street?

In Oregon, speed limits are set by and changed through specific procedures defined in state laws and regulations. The primary consideration of this process is the measured speeds of drivers on the street currently. This means that sometimes if a street is studied, the process may actually result in a higher speed limit being posted. The City may occasionally request review of speed limits through the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), however the process can take upwards of six months or more for a determination on whether or not any speed changes may occur. Information about the speed setting process in Oregon is available here.

Recent changes in state law now allow some cities in Oregon to complete speed studies themselves, subject to State oversight. However, the same statewide rules and regulations must be followed. Due to staff workloads and the time-consuming nature of speed studies, this is not something Corvallis plans to take on in the near future and will therefore continue to work with ODOT when considering speed limit evaluations.

At this time, before forwarding a request for a speed study to ODOT or not, the City considers the context of the street, recent speed data if available, changes to the street that may have an effect on speeds, law enforcement support, and the likelihood of the speed changing through the study process.

Category: Traffic Engineering
I am planning on selling my home soon. If the ordinance passes, what will I need to do?

If the Home Energy Score passes, it will likely not go into effect until early 2023. In the meantime, the City will work with our partners at Earth Advantage to train home energy assessors in the Corvallis area. If you are planning on selling your home after the ordinance goes into effect, you would need to schedule an appointment with a home energy assessor to obtain a home energy score report. Once that is done, you will need to provide that report to any listing agent or service you use to advertise your home. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I damage or lose my ballot?

Contact the Benton County Elections Office for a replacement ballot.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I request traffic calming such as speed bumps or radar speed feedback signs?

The City has adopted a policy and procedure for considering requests for neighborhood traffic calming. You can read more about the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP) here. Requests are only considered for local, residential streets, as traffic calming through the NTCP is not allowed on arterial and collector streets to minimize disruptions to emergency services and transit routes. While there may be past traffic calming that was installed on some of these main streets, new installations are not allowed.

The neighborhood traffic calming program and procedures require broad support from the residents along the subject street and any improvements must be paid for by the adjacent properties. Currently, the City does not have a budget for installing traffic calming on streets by request without neighborhood financial support.

Permanent radar speed feedback sign installations have been used in Corvallis at a small amount of locations, typically at or near school speed zones thanks to special funding from the State or school district. Additional radar speed feedback signs may be installed on arterial and collector streets where speed limits drop, mostly when entering into the City. These devices can have significant ongoing maintenance needs and be costly to replace if struck, vandalized, or they fail. The Police Department has a small amount of portable speed radar feedback signs, however their ability move these around frequently and widely in response to traffic concerns is limited due to staffing and upkeep.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How will my ballot be counted?

The Benton County Election Office will tally ballots in accordance with the County and City’s ranked choice voting rules for implementation. A detailed description of the tallying process can be found on the Benton County’s Benton Better Ballot site.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Is this another government fee or tax on Corvallis property owners?

No. The fee collected by the home energy assessor goes directly to the assessor, with the exception of a $35 flat fee that goes to Earth Advantage to support assessor training, marketing, and administration of Home Energy Score policies across the state.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about snow or general debris removal?

Generally, there are no problems with snow or debris removal in traffic circle.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the City of Corvallis doing to address PFAS and phthalate in wastewater and biosolids?

The City is looking at different sources of PFAS in wastewater, including our industrial customers. The City is also working with biosolids researchers at OSU and professional groups in the Northwest and is engaged in regional and statewide efforts to increase knowledge about PFAS risks and how to minimize those risks. The City is also sharing information about PFAS so the public can make educated choices.

Category: PFAS
What lodging facilities are exempt from the tax?
  • Health care facilities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and residential care facilities that are licensed, registered, or certified by Oregon Department of Human Services.
  • Drug or alcohol abuse treatment facilities and mental health treatment facilities.
  • Facilities with less than 30 days of rentals in a calendar year.  The exemption granted under this subsection does not apply to a dwelling unit that is rented out as a lodging using a lodging intermediary platform of any kind.    
  • Any Facility whose rent is collected for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter, with a voucher bearing the seal of the City of Corvallis, issued by a tax-exempt, non-profit charitable organization, as defined by the Oregon Department of revenue.  
  • Nonprofit youth or church camps, nonprofit conference centers, and qualifying nonprofit facilities.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business.
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
  • Non-profit charitable organizations for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter.  See the City of Corvallis code 8.04.050.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I get a certain sign, pavement markings like a crosswalk, or flashing beacon for crossing installed?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Many transportation-related items reported to the City come in the form of a suggested or requested treatment. Staff will investigate and determine if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed and if the suggested or requested treatment is appropriate. If staff does find an issue, and believes it may warrant addressing, we may agree with the treatment proposed (if there was one) or choose a different one utilizing our best judgment. Issues needing to be addressed will have to compete with existing priorities, including staff time and budget. We have a limited range of tools within our annual budget. Examples of more easy improvements to implement include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. However, please know that if the reported issue or request would require installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have this type of un-budgeted funding readily available. These kinds of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval. You can learn more about the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) here.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How do I determine if my short-term guest is exempt from the LRT?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
Category: Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
So why is the City interested in a Home Energy Score ordinance?

As part of its commitment to mitigating climate change and curbing emissions, the City sees this as an opportunity for community members to better understand their energy usage and to increase energy efficiency in the built environment in our community. The implementation of a home energy performance rating is an objective in both the City's Climate Action Plan (page 12), adopted in 2016, and the City's 2022-2026 Strategic Operational Plan (page 13). If the ordinance passes, Corvallis would be the fourth municipality in Oregon to require a Home Energy Score, following Portland, Milwaukie, and Hillsboro. 

Category: Home Energy Score
I still have questions about this proposed policy.

That's understandable! Please contact Kathryn Duvall at (541) 766-6423 or kathryn.duvall@corvallisoregon.gov.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about home water filtration? Does that remove PFAS?

PFAS have NOT been detected in Corvallis drinking water. According to the EPA, a home filter could be an effective way to reduce PFAS levels (EPA filter factsheet). Many water pitcher filters and other home-based water filters are able to reduce the levels of PFAS in drinking water. If you decide to use a filter, look for ones that are certified to reduce PFAS. Be aware that current filters on the market will not yet be certified to reduce PFAS to the new EPA standard, but the added filtration they provide can help reduce your exposure. It's important to note that the current certification standards for PFAS filters (as of April 2024) do not yet indicate that a filter will remove PFAS down to the levels EPA has now set for a drinking water standard.

 

Category: PFAS
When is lodging tax due?

Lodging Tax Collectors must submit a Lodging Tax Return Form and related payment no later than the last day of the month following the end of the tax period. 

The City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes should all be filed with the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Due dates for filing returns and making payments
Period (quarter) Period end date Due date
Jan-Feb-Mar March 31 April 30
Apr-May-Jun June 30 July 31
July-Aug-Sep September 30 October 31
Oct-Nov-Dec December 31 January 31
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will the railroad crossing on 11th Street be upgraded to concrete similar to the crossing at Adams?

When we analyze a span of road to implement a Neighborhood Bikeway, we look carefully at every element. Railroad crossings are no exception. We are aware that the condition of these crossings can pose a challenge for some street users. Although improvements may appear straightforward on the surface, crossings are actually located within railroad-owned land and require complex coordination, negotiation, approval, and agreements with the railroad and the State who regulates rail crossings. This makes the process very difficult, time consuming and quite expensive. So expensive, in fact, that the cost of crossing improvements alone can quickly surpass the budget for the entire project.

Due to the complexity of parties involved, high costs, and the desire to still advance other beneficial elements of the Neighborhood Bikeway network, we have elected to remove railroad crossings reconstruction from the current project phase. This does not preclude a later effort to attempt to tackle this complex work here and elsewhere.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I boil PFAS out of my water?

No. These chemicals cannot be removed by heating or boiling water. See FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. 

 

Category: PFAS
What is the penalty for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay a penalty. The penalty will be imposed in the same manner and the amount provided under ORS 314.400. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will speed humps have channels cut in them so bicycles can ride through them?

Currently, we do not have any speed humps on Neighborhood Bikeways that have channels cut to accommodate for bicyclist and/or vehicles with larger axles, such as emergency vehicles.

While a good idea in theory, we have found that there are two main issues. When bikes and vehicles are sharing the road on local streets, and both a vehicle and bike arrive simultaneously at a speed hump, bikes may be squeezed out of their path of travel by vehicles so vehicles can drive through the channel too. This is when a chain of events can occur. While being closely passed, the rider is forced to move quickly and into crossing the speed hump gap at an angle, which could result in a crash due to the abrupt edges and elevation.

From a maintenance perspective, speed humps with channels are a challenge. The gap accumulates debris such as leaves in the fall, gravel in the winter, and other debris throughout the year. It is simply not possible to remove this material from this gap with our street sweepers. Eventually, it must be manually removed, which is time consuming from an automation standpoint. Since local streets are not swept as frequently as arterials and collectors, this will likely lead to frustration for cyclists.

We will continue to monitor and internally evaluate this topic but at the current time, there is no plan to change the current design of speed humps to accommodate channels.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What if I get water from a well, instead of the City of Corvallis drinking water?

The quality and safety of drinking water from wells that service fewer than 25 persons, such as most household wells, are not regulated by the federal government under the Safe Drinking Water Act nor by many state governments and laws. Furthermore, the City does not have groundwater quality information and does not monitor or regulate drinking water wells.

Private well owners are responsible for assuring safe drinking water for their households. See this FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. If you want to test your well water, visit the Benton County OSU Extension Service’s Water Tests webpage for more information.

Category: PFAS
What is the interest fee for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay interest.  Interest will be added to the overall tax amount due at the same rate established under ORS 305.220 for each month, or fraction of a month, from the time the return to the Tax Administrator was originally required to be filed to the time of the payment.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is a part per trillion? How much is that?

Parts per trillion is a unit of measure. It is a very tiny amount. For perspective, one part per trillion is the equivalent of four grains of sugar in an Olympic sized swimming pool (From EPA Factsheet).  

Category: PFAS
How do I remit my lodging tax payment?

For instructions on how to file the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes, see the filing instructions here. https://www.oregon.gov/dor/forms/FormsPubs/publication-or-olt-ol_604-006.pdf

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How do I obtain approval for a vacation rental?

Approval for property zoning must be obtained from the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development Departments.

The City has received several inquiries from property owners interested in establishing short-term (vacation) rentals. Renting out an entire home for a short-term stay of less than 30 days, with no owner present, is classified in Chapter 3.0 of the City’s Land Development Code (LDC) as a Lodging Service use type. Lodging Services are permitted in a variety of commercial zones, however, they are not permitted within residential zoning districts. Property owners that would like to rent out rooms within their home may qualify as a Home Business. Home Businesses are permitted as accessory uses in a majority of the City’s residential zoning districts. Under the definition of Home Business in the LDC,“…Bed and Breakfast businesses that rent up to two bedrooms within owner occupied dwellings are considered to be Home Businesses and are an allowed use….”

 

City of Corvallis

Development Services

https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/ds

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

Benton County

Community Development

https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax/page/start-short-term-rental

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
I use Airbnb for a vacation rental. Am I required to report lodging taxes?

If you rent space exclusively through Airbnb, then you are only required to register with the Lodging Tax program. You are not required to collect and remit payment. Airbnb as the lodging intermediary for your reservations should collect and remit the lodging taxes on your behalf. 

If you rent space and collect payment from lodging customers directly, then you are required to both register with the City of Corvallis and to remit Lodging Taxes on those collections to the Oregon Department of Revenue. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Does City of Corvallis offer a Lodging Tax Collector reimbursement/administrative fee?

No, the City of Corvallis has a ‘Grandfathered lodging tax'. Local governments that imposed a lodging tax prior to January 1, 2001 are not required to offer a reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax (also known as an Administrative Fee).

Conversely, Benton County has a ‘New lodging tax’. Local governments that imposed a new lodging tax on or after January 1, 2001 must allow collectors to retain a minimum of 5 percent of all collected tax revenues as reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is HB2656 and when did it take effect?

In 2013, the Oregon Legislature enacted Oregon House Bill 2656, which made two important changes to the state law on transient lodging tax. First, the tax must be paid on the full retail price of a room, including any charges added to the price. Second, transient lodging intermediaries, or “online travel companies” that take payment for the rooms they book must remit the tax directly to the state and local jurisdictions on those transactions, rather than forwarding that payment to the hotel or owner. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How are lodging taxes used by the City?

Lodging taxes may be used for visitor information center(s), convention promotion and support, the administration of the lodging tax program and any other municipal purpose.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Is lodging tax in the Corvallis Municipal Code?

Yes, please see Chapter 8.04 - LODGING TAX. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Who can I contact for more information?

Questions related to filing and remitting taxes should be directed to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Questions related to registration should be directed to the City of Corvallis Finance department.

Questions related to property zoning should be directed to the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development departments.

 

State of Oregon City of Corvallis Benton County

Department of Revenue

(503) 378-4988

questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov

www.oregon.gov/dor

Finance | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6729 ext. 5138

transient.roomtax@corvallisoregon.gov

Community Development | Benton County

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us
 

Development Services | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the Benton County lodging tax?

Please visit Benton County Lodging Tax and Permits https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the State lodging tax?

Please visit Oregon Department of Revenue https://www.oregon.gov/DOR/programs/businesses/Pages/lodging.aspx

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What do I do if the equipment needs maintenance?

If the bike trailer(s) need emergency maintenance, the City has an agreement with Spicy Pedals and Corvallis Cyclery. You may take the trailer(s) to either of these locations and have the work performed and billed to Josh Capps at the City of Corvallis. Please notify Josh Capps at 541-766-6916 or josh.capps@corvallisoregon.gov of the situation that occurred and that maintenance was needed. The City is unable to do personal reimbursements.

Category: Portable Bike Racks

Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave

View this project in the Capital Improvement Program document here.
 
Schedule: TBD
 
For more information, contact: 

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle?

Anyone under 16 years of age must wear a helmet unless it violates a religious belief. ORS 814.485

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are bicycle riders required to have lights?

Yes. After dark and during limited visibility conditions, a cyclist must have a white light in front and a red light or red reflector in the rear. This also applies when riding on sidewalks. ORS 815.280

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are racial restrictions enforceable?

No.

Racial restrictive covenants have been unenforceable since 1948 based on the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and illegal since 1968. The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits the enforcement of racial restrictions.

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
But we get so much rain in the Willamette Valley... water conservation isn't really that important, here is it?

In the summer, water usage increases most with single family residential customers. A single family residential customer is equal to an average of 2.38 people per household. As a comparison, a single family residential customer uses approximately 234 gallons per day during the winter months. During the summer, a single family residential customer uses approximately 341 gallons per day. That is an increase of 46%! 

As you can image, this adds up to a lot of water use in the summer. In Corvallis, we have less rainfall during the summer months than Houston, Texas! Although, we have not experienced a substantial drought condition in recent years, it could very well happen if customer demand for water during the hot, dry summer months exceeds the treatment plants' capacity. In such a situation, customers may be asked to voluntarily reduce their water use on a temporary basis until drought conditions subside. 

Category: Water Conservation
Can I change my initial court date?

It is possible to change your initial court date. You must contact the court office to make arrangements.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I change my trial date?

To get a trial date changed you must write a letter to the Judge requesting a continuance and the reasons why. Your letter must be received in the Court office within 10 days of receiving your trial notice. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I get a copy of my case?

Yes. You need to go to or call the City Attorney's Office at 456 SW Monroe Avenue, Suite 101, Corvallis, Oregon 97333 and request a copy of the police report. This is known as "Discovery" and there is a $20.00 fee. Please call the City Attorney's Office at (541) 766-6906 for more information.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Can I have a court appointed attorney?

You may request a court appointed attorney at your arraignment date. Keep in mind, however, that only misdemeanor charges qualify. You will be required to fill out an affidavit that states your financial status. The court will then decide if you qualify. 

Category: Municipal Court
Can I speak to the Judge in private?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can I talk to the Judge in person or by telephone?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can the Clerk at the counter take my pleas or reduce my fine?

The Municipal Court does offer a violations Bureau in traffic cases for non-moving violations. You must contact the court to see if your citation would qualify to be handled by the clerk.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Compensation - How are City employees contributing to the City’s financial situation?

Exempt employees (primarily managers and supervisors) have foregone cost of living increases from FY 08-09 through FY 14-15, and together with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), have moved to a single lower cost high deductible health care plan effective January 2015. The Corvallis Regional Communications Center Association (CRCCA) and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) both followed suit in January 2016. Via the bargaining process, members of the Corvallis Police Officers Association (CPOA) agreed to change from a 10-hour work shift to a more efficient 12-hour work shift. The 12-hour work schedule distributes existing staffing numbers across four shifts instead of six shifts under the 10-hour schedule. This provides more officers per each work shift, which enhances officer safety and prevents significant operational overtime expenditures. Additionally, CPOA has gone to the least expensive, composite rate health plan option available to that unit through the Teamsters Trust, which is considerably less costly than what is provided to other units, since they unfortunately cannot avail themselves of the same insurance option. Members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) agreed to forego their contractually negotiated cost of living adjustment for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011. This action saved the City an estimated $46,590 assuming the members would have gotten a 2% COLA. Some employees took voluntary leave without pay to help reduce the City’s costs. A number of currently vacant positions continue to be held open, with other employees taking on more work to cover the vacancies. Per the FY14-15 Adopted Budget, the City had eliminated 2.6 full time equivalent (FTE) in order to meet a sustainable budget, after several years of other staffing reductions. Additionally, per the FY 15-16 Adopted Budget, the City reorganized Public Works FTE to decrease total FTE by 1.25 and per the FY 16-17 Adopted Budget, the City eliminated a total of 6.75 FTE due to departmental reorganizations and budget reductions. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11 as known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %

 Bargaining Unit

 FY 16-17

 FY 15-16

FY14-15 

 FY13-14

 FY12-13

 FY11-12

 FY10-11
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -      -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How come City employees get cost-of-living-adjustments (COLA) raises in a bad economy?

Most City employees are members of a collective bargaining unit with an existing labor agreement in place. However, in recent years, some units have elected to forego a COLA in a particular year in order to help keep costs down. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11, as far as what is known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %:

Bargaining Unit  FY16-17  FY15-16 FY14-15 FY13-14  FY12-13  FY11-12  FY10-11 
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -  -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How do Corvallis salaries compare with other similar-sized cities?

Under the State of Oregon Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act, municipalities compare to similar sized cities during labor negotiations. In addition, the City Council has adopted a Compensation Policy for the City to set total compensation based on the mean of comparable sized cities and internal equity, that is how City employees compare to one another. Generally, the comparable cities the City of Corvallis uses include at least: Albany, Bend, Lake Oswego, Medford, Springfield, and Tigard. Generally Corvallis' total compensation is within 5% of the mean of these comparators. Some Corvallis positions are paid higher or lower than the 5% differential. In the case of public safety units, which are not allowed to strike, arbitration guides many labor decisions including wages, and these wages have generally risen faster than non-public safety. This can also impact management salaries where there is a need to maintain a pay differential between staff and management in order to avoid compression and attract relevant expertise with the increased responsibility.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How much would the City save if all the employee groups agreed to forgo their cost of living adjustments (COLA) this year?

his calculation can be complicated based on certain contractual increases where the COLA for a given bargaining unit may receive equity changes in job class for certain positions. One way to put the cost in perspective is to consider that a 1% reduction in projected FY 12-13 salaries (including an estimated impact for FICA and PERS contributions that are based on a % of pay) would result in savings of around $233,000 a year for all regular employees in the General Fund.
In the short term such salary savings would carry forward; in that future increases would be built on a lower base salary than would have been the case with the COLA. However, such savings would be temporary due to the way Oregon collective bargaining law works and would not continue to provide savings for the long term, structural funding problem. Under state law, represented employees are categorized as either eligible to strike or as "strike prohibited" which are public safety units -- in Corvallis police, fire, and dispatch. These employees have a system of binding arbitration that is based largely on comparable total compensation. So, if Corvallis does not increase its wages and benefits while other cities do, we fall behind. This can impact recruitment and retention, and also leaves the City vulnerable under state law to having an arbitrator impose increases on the City as a later date, bringing us back to where we would have been had we taken the cost-of-living adjustment. That is, while we would save money initially, foregoing an increase is not sustainable over the long term because the labor market would continue to increase.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What does the City pay on behalf of current employees (vs. retired employees) for medical/dental/vision/RX premiums as a % of both personnel service costs and total operating budget?

Currently just over 7% of the City’s total operating budget is spent on active employees’ medical/dental benefits and roughly 14% of total personnel service costs (not including retiree benefits) is made up of these benefit expenditures. Medical/dental coverage for retired employees who were hired prior to August 1992 (employees hired after this date are no longer eligible for city paid coverage) represents almost 2% of total personnel service costs. 

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What is the practical application of furloughs to non-public safety employees?

There are a lot of issues, which are more questions than answers, about furloughs. A furlough is a change in wage and hours which requires collective bargaining for represented employees. The method used to implement a furlough makes a big difference. The most common form of furlough in current practice is to close facilities for a day; other alternatives include shortening the work day (i.e., open offices at 10 AM instead of 8), closing facilities for a one week period (for example closing from Christmas to New Year's), or having employees take mandatory “floating” furlough days. The model chosen influences such questions as:
• If facilities would all be closed at one time, would furloughs apply to all City operations except Police/Fire front line responders or just to property tax funded services? There are operations not funded by property taxes that would require at least one employee to be on duty (i.e., Wastewater Treatment Plant). Library branches, funded through the Benton County Library Service District, would be a lot like the city’s non-property tax funded services, so it would have to be determined whether a City furlough would apply to these operations. If Parking Enforcement Officers were furloughed, there would be no enforcement of parking regulations. If the Utility Billing Office (funded by the utilities funds) is furloughed, there would be no meter reading or turn on/off services that day of the week. Exempt staff (mostly managers) would not be allowed to work on a furlough day or their exempt status for the week would be jeopardized and they could be eligible for overtime for any hours over 40 for that week which would not normally be the case. Part-time employees who have a regularly scheduled day off on a closed furlough day would have to have other time off or not contribute to savings.
• If the furlough was taken as a “floating day” and facilities were not closed, there could be undue burden in some locations to meet customer service coverage issues, especially when other staff members are on leave such as a sick day. There would also be an increased administrative burden to be sure all employees were taking their required furlough days. This is the model that was implemented for the AFSCME union members for the 2-days of furlough leave agreed upon for a one year contract in fiscal year 2011-12.

Regardless of the model, issues that arise include:
• Compensation when employees are called out on a furlough day to address a short-term emergency (i.e., a Battalion Chief to oversee a fire incident or for a Fire Prevention Officer to investigate; the on-call Public Works Supervisor called in for a broken water line; an IT systems administrator is called in for a network of public safety system outage). This issue is exacerbated for a longer-term emergency (i.e., snow/ice storm, flooding).
• Work on capital projects may have to be stopped on a furlough day because there will not be inspection services/project manager availability to answer questions, meet inspection requirements, etc. If so, this could increase costs for certain projects.
• Work on private construction projects may also be a concern if the Development Services inspectors are furloughed and unable to inspect as timely as in other situations. All these questions arise each time the City considers and/or works with union negotiations to implement furloughs and do serve to influence the amount of savings a furlough produces. There are several agencies which have implemented furloughs that do help provide models for the City to use, should with this suggestion become a viable longer term solution.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why did the City add staff when they knew there was a long term funding City services issue?

In FY 08-09 the City had an $8 million fund balance in the funds that receive property taxes and cautioned the community that harder times were coming. All staff additions are made after careful consideration by the Budget Commission and City Council, and staff additions may be made knowing there are future funding issues involved. But because the staff additions are deemed "critical" by elected and appointed officials the staff additions are authorized. City staffing has decreased overall in the last few years; however, the downward trend in FTE stopped in FY13-14 when net total staffing increased by 10.025 FTE (full time equivalents): 0.750 FTE increase due to reorganizations; 3.500 FTE added for enhancements; 4.375 FTE funded by the 2013 Operating Levy (although in total, the Levy will now fund 22.500 FTE, including previously authorized staffing for the Osborn Aquatic Center, Chintimini Senior Center and Library Monday hours, as well as 3.0 FTE Police Officers previously unfunded); 4.000 FTE added for the new Residential Parking District; and 2.600 FTE eliminated to meet a sustainable budget. However, this trend did not spill into FY 15-16 as the Residential Parking District positions did not come to fruition due to the unsuccessful outcome at the polls and overall authorized FTE decreased by a net 1.25 FTE due to reorganizations.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why doesn't the city do furloughs or work 32 hour weeks for non-emergency personnel?

The City has considered and continues to look at potential savings if non-emergency staff worked four 10-hour days and offices were closed one extra day each week. Furloughs have also been discussed and were implemented (2 days) by the AFSCME unit for FY 11-12, as a mechanism to help maintain their benefit levels for an additional year. Because furloughs are a reduction in work hours and therefore pay, implementing additional furloughs would require bargaining with the appropriate labor representatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Does the City add fluoride to the water?

Yes, we do. In 1952, the citizens of Corvallis voted to have fluoride added to City drinking water. Several years later, a group of residents wanted the City to stop adding fluoride, so a second vote was held in 1960. Citizens voted 2-to-1 to continue adding fluoride to the water. 

Fluoride, known for its cavity-fighting benefits, is of special interest to parents with young children. Studies have shown that it strengthens tooth enamel and inhibits acid production by decay-causing bacteria in dental plaque. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends a fluoride concentration of 0.7 to 1.2 ppm in drinking water. Our target fluoride level is 0.8 ppm. 

Category: Water Treatment
Expenditure - Why doesn’t the City lower its costs?

Over the past decade the City has taken numerous steps to lower costs. Examples are wide ranging and include implementing energy efficiency measures such as facility heating/cooling systems, changing lighting, and decreasing paper usage; increasing the share of medical/dental insurance employees pay and changing benefits; and entering into numerous partnerships with other governments and non-profits to jointly provide services. Even with these measures, the City’s costs continue to rise. Services supported by property taxes and other non-designated revenues are heavily invested in personnel – police officers, fire fighters, lifeguards, librarians, recreation program staff, and parks maintenance workers. Most of the staff positions for the City are paid according to collective bargaining agreements, and in some cases these agreements are subject to arbitration to ensure that Corvallis staff are paid at a comparable rate to similar sized cities.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Did balancing the budget for FY 11-12 resolve the problem?

It did not. $2.5 million in expenditure reductions, in FY 10-11, and another $1.8 million in reductions for FY 11-12 combined with a successful, voter approved 3-year operating levy in May 2011 improved the financial outlook for FY 12-13 but not enough. In staff’s future financial projections, revenues and expenditures remain unbalanced with expenditures exceeding revenues by several million dollars each year. The long-term structural imbalance still needs to be addressed. The efforts made during the previous budget planning periods have provided additional, but limited time to develop the community-wide process needed to discuss revenue alternatives as well as service reductions and how best to proceed to meet the community’s needs and priorities. In FY 12-13 Council bought off on a new Financial Planning model that looks at rebuilding reserves and enacting a more sustainable budget that balances recurring revenues and expenditures. In addition, during the FY14-15 budgeting cycle, the expenditure limit concept was implemented for each department, ensuring that revenues would equal expenditures within a five-year planning window.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought passage of Measures 66 and 67 would mean no cuts, so why is this happening?

Measures 66 and 67 increase income taxes paid to the state and increase funding for state funded programs. They have no direct impact on the City’s funding.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought that in FY 09-10 the City had plenty of money. What happened?

While the budgeting process based on past historically normed averages appeared promising, revenues in the property tax funds in FY 08-09 ended up being about $1 million lower than expected, and expenditures were almost exactly as expected. As a result, some of the “usual” annual savings were not realized. That, combined with fairly flat revenue projections for FY 09-10 and future fiscal years, and increasing expenses, leads to a structural problem where annual revenue is lower than the annual operating expenses. This situation continued to worsen in all recent year actuals through to and including FY 12-13 actuals.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Is there a way to get the 3% growth in revenue matched better to the 6% growth in expenditures?

There is no easy answer on this one. Growing property taxes beyond current projections is limited by Oregon State law through state-wide voter approved ballot initiatives (Measures 5, 47 and 50 for property taxes). Although new development would allow more significant increases in property tax revenue, the City would need to add nearly $200 million in new development to raise $1 million in revenue. Some new revenue sources are subject to state preemptions (i.e., local real estate transfer tax). Others are subject to difficulties associated with collections or administration (i.e., states that have a local sales tax often use state collections processes for local revenues; states that have local income taxes use the state income tax as a base and the state collects). Oregon has a long history of voter dislike of new taxes (i.e., Oregon’s many failed attempts to put in place a statewide sales tax).

In the last several years Corvallis has attempted to improve local revenues through adoption of a local telecommunications tax that was referred to the voters and failed, and through discussions of a business license fee, local meal tax, and local entertainment tax. All of these had strong local opposition and never moved forward. Added to the challenges associated with adopting a local, significant new tax would be the market difficulties Corvallis’ businesses might face if there was a local income or sales tax that did not apply in Philomath, Albany, etc. Basically, to expand the local revenue stream in any significant way for tax-based services will require some movement on the State’s part.

Some of the services which get discussed for possible cuts, most notably Parks & Recreation services, charge fees for most programs. Fees are set based on City Council financial cost recovery policies, market tolerance, including competitors and direct costs to deliver the program while balancing the mission of Public Recreation to be accessible to all community members. Fees are reviewed annually by the Parks, Natural Areas and Recreation Board and City Council. A simple analysis that assumes no change in participation (which, due to elasticity of demand, is unlikely to be true), but full cost recovery through fees at the Aquatic Center would increase charges 176%. Daily entry for one swim session is projected to increase from $4 to $11 – likely pricing most users out of the use of the pool. Parks & Recreation staff completes a fee comparison of local and state-wide aquatic centers as part of the annual fee review. Corvallis rates are generally at or above the median fees charged for almost all activities (child through senior) and for annual memberships. Review of fees of Parks and Recreation programs, including the Aquatic Center, occurs each spring through the Department's advisory board and City Council. Staff anticipates recommending some increase in fees each year, but not at a level that recovers all costs in order to remain competitive with other aquatic facilities and fulfill the mission of Public Recreation as outlined in its cost recovery model.
Like the revenue picture, the expenditure side of the equation is equally challenged by State laws. In particular, the State’s collective bargaining laws, that require comparisons with similar sized governments, in many cases means that labor negotiations are not completed solely within the discretion of the City Council. Arbitration requirements for Police, Fire, and 9-1-1 units do not necessarily allow the City Council to include “ability to pay” among the factors to be considered in labor negotiations as the primary factor. All of this means that as Corvallis’ comparators increase compensation, Corvallis must follow.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Please explain the "structural problems with how local government services are financed" in Oregon; what are these structural problems and what does this concept mean?

Cities have fairly specific limits on how they can raise revenues, with property taxes as the primary revenue source for many services. Although Corvallis has been assertive in pursuing alternative revenues (i.e., fees for participation in Parks & Recreation classes, implementation of the Library Service District) there are not a lot of alternatives that produce significant revenues. Also, often times services which are funded with property taxes and other non-dedicated revenues (franchise fees, state revenue sharing, transient room taxes) cannot actually be funded by charges for service since a specific user cannot be identified.

Furthermore, property taxes were limited in 1996/97's statewide elections on Measure 47/50. Property tax growth is generally limited to 3% per year, and most people who live in Corvallis would agree that their assessed value (AV) (and the taxes paid to the City) have gone up close to 3% each year. This assumption is generally true for residential and commercial property, where real market value (RMV) continues to increase -- usually faster than 3% annually -- so that most residential and commercial property now has an AV rating that is about 60% of the RMV. However, industrial property has an AV that is generally equal to a declining RMV. In Corvallis, industrial property has decreased in value about 10% annually since 1997. In some years this decrease has been offset by added value from new development. However, there has been no real new taxable development in the past several years, so property tax revenue to the City is pretty flat.

Other non-dedicated revenues are also holding flat or growing very slowly -- franchise fees have been flat or in some cases declined as people quit using land lines, conserve energy and water, etc. Transient room taxes declined for several years as people travelled less for business and/or for pleasure. While the parts of State Revenue Sharing tied to alcohol taxes have continued to grow in general, they are not growing enough to offset property tax losses.

All this adds up to a total revenue stream that is, at best, growing 2.5% to 3% annually.

At the same time, expenditure growth, which is predominantly in salaries and benefits, has been around five to six percent annually. Drivers of this growth include:
 

 

  • Wages/salaries - As with revenue limitations, many of the compensation issues are governed by Oregon law that sets requirements for labor negotiations and include comparing total compensation with like-sized cities. Furthermore, City Council compensation policy has been to attempt to be at or near the mean of compensation in like-sized Oregon cities (which includes total wages and benefits) as well as balancing external comparators with internal equity and avoiding salary compression between jobs.
  • Benefits -- in particular for medical and dental insurance, have been increasing in the range of 10% annually for many of the past years.
  • PERS payments -- Oregon Public Employee Retirement System (OPERS) employer rates are set for a biennial period to follow the State's budget. The City's employer rates have been increasing, especially for the older PERS Tier 1/2 employees. The Oregon Supreme Court's decision that a significant share of the legislative changes to the Tier 1/2 benefits were unconstitutional, combined with the PERS Board's reduction in the assumed rate of return from 8% to 7.75% for 2015 and 7.5% for 2016, and anemic earnings during the same period will lead to significant increases in PERS rates beginning July 1, 2017; however, a firm rate will be provided to the City in the late fall 2016. Additional rate increases of a similar level are expected beginning July 1, 2019 and July 1, 2021.
  • Binding arbitration drives wages for three of the City’s public-safety related bargaining units: CPOA, IAFF, and CRCCA, which in turn drive some of the internal comparators when Human Resources staff review positions. It also, to some extent, drives wages for exempt employees to be sure that a supervisor is compensated higher than the people supervised.

Combined, these factors drive the lion's share of the City's expenditures. Even some of the non-labor expenditures can see significant increases in costs (i.e., a proposed 20% increase in electricity, rising fuel costs, etc.) that all work together to cause expenditures to grow faster than revenues.
Over time, this structural issue – where revenue grows at two to three percent and expenditures grow at five to six percent – creates an untenable situation where the level of services provided cannot continue because they simply cost more than the City will raise. Other cities are experiencing very similar issues as outlined in the League of Oregon City's recent publication "State of the Cities."

Category: Financial Budget
General - Why is the City in budget trouble?

The City’s major revenue sources for certain functions, collectively called the property tax supported operations, have been growing more slowly than the costs to provide services.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Won’t this get better when the economy gets going again?

Probably not. Significant new taxable development would have to occur to raise property tax revenue. For example, to increase revenue by about $1 million annually, about $195 million in assessed value, or 652 homes each with an assessed value of around $300,000 would have to be added. Franchise Fees, the second highest non-designated revenue, have been decreasing as more people are conserving energy and water, and as people drop land line telephones. Transient room taxes are picking back up as the economy has shown some improvement. However, at around $1.5 million, even 10% growth will not bring in enough revenue to solve the City’s funding challenges. The state taxes alcohol and cigarettes and shares the revenue with local governments, but with the state’s financial challenges there is discussion at the legislature about ending the revenue sharing arrangement.

Category: Financial Budget
How can I report hazardous road conditions?

Residents may report problems or concerns to Public Works (541-766-6916) during regular business hours (M - F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.). To report hazardous situations after hours, weekends or holidays, please call 911.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
How do I report a concern or request a transportation-related improvement?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Staff will investigate and determine if there is an issue that needs to be addressed, and if so, how it compares with competing priorities, and whether there is staffing and budget capacity to address it. Examples of more easy-to-implement improvements include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. In contrast, if the request would result in the installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have un-budgeted funding readily available. These types of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How does citation fees in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

Corvallis’ citation fee is currently $10, and the new fee will be $15. The average citation fee for the comparator cities listed above averages $18.40. It averages over $23 when Davis, CA is included.

How often is our drinking water quality tested?

Drinking water is perishable. That is why the City of Corvallis takes steps to prevent water quality degradation from the time the water leaves the treatment plant until it gets to your tap. Laboratory professionals take routine samples from sampling stations strategically located in the distribution system. Routine sampling lets the staff confirm that our water is free from harmful bacteria and that there is sufficient chlorine for continued disinfection throughout the system. Automated, continuous water quality monitoring stations also take real-time samples from the distribution system throughout the entire day, every day, all year long. The data are continuously relayed to water system staff to assist them in optimizing water quality. See the annual Consumer Confidence Report for more information about our water quality and testing.

Category: Water Conservation
How will the City know if violations occur?

For implementation of this ordinance to be effective, the City needs your help! Citizens who witness a possible violation are encouraged to contact the Public Works Department by calling the 24-hr pollution prevention hotline at 541-766-6565.

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How will the implementation of this ordinance be paid for?

There will be no additional fees to rate payers as a direct result of this ordinance. The implementation of this ordinance, in addition to other programs aimed at reducing stormwater pollution, is funded through stormwater utilities fees, which you can see on your monthly utility bill. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How would I know about a problem with the water supply?

The City of Corvallis keeps close watch on your water supply. The law requires that you be informed if there is a problem with your water. Potential sources for this news are the radio, television, newspapers, the Benton County Environmental Health Department, the Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Program, or directly from the City of Corvallis.

Category: Water Conservation
I heard that lawns need one inch of water per week. Is this true? How much water should I put on my garden or landscape plants?

It's true! In the early spring, the soil has all the water it can hold. As the temperatures warm and the daylight hours lengthen, plants increase the amount of water they remove from the soil, and the amount of water that evaporates from the soil also increases. The amount of water that you apply to your lawn or landscape should equal the amount of water lost through evaporation and transpiration, often called evapotranspiration, or simply ET. Corvallis averages about 34 inches of rain and 34 inches of ET each year. Theoretically, nobody should ever have to water their lawn at all! Of course the rain comes when plants are not growing as rapidly, so many people irrigate. While one inch per week is a good average for the growing season, the amount of irrigation you apply should change from week to week. Your plants need more water in July than in May or September. Check out the Smart Irrigation and A Golden Landscape and Water Efficient Plant Guide for more information about irrigation, lawns, and conserving water.

Category: Water Conservation
I don't feel like driving in these conditions. What are my options?

Residents are encourages to use alternate modes, such as public transportation, if roads are icy. Visit www.corvallistransit.com for route and schedule information.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
I want to store some water for a possible emergency. Is bottled water ok to store?

Bottled water can be a good source of drinking water during an emergency, but it does not store well for long periods of time. Generally, bottled water does not contain a disinfectant, so microbes may grow in it over time. Because of this, bottled water should be treated as a perishable food product. Tap water does contain low levels of disinfectant and should be stored in capped plastic or glass containers. However, even properly stored tap water will not last indefinitely and should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. 

Category: Water Treatment
If I plead guilty, do I have to pay today?

Yes, if possible. If you need time to pay, be sure you ask the Judge when you enter your plea. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
If I plead not guilty, when will my trial be?

Trials are set for Mondays and Thursdays. Cases are set in advance about two months. If you plead not guilty today, your case will be set within approximately two months. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
In the event of bad weather, which City streets will be cleared first?

For snow and ice events, plowing and sanding in Corvallis are prioritized into four categories:

  • Priority 1 
    The following streets are considered to be the minimum network which must be kept open to provide a transportation system that connects to essential facilities, hospitals, fire stations, police stations, and emergency response units: Good Samaritan (Samaritan Drive and Emergency Room access); Fire Station access (5th Street, Circle Boulevard, 35th Street, Tunison Avenue); all Corvallis Transit System routes; select streets within the Central Business District connecting to essential facilities (2nd Street, Jackson, Tyler, Polk & Adams Avenues); and Corvallis Public Works access (Waterworks Drive). 
  • Priority 2 
    The following streets provide significant secondary access routes for emergency responders and community travel: arterials and collectors—Circle Boulevard, Research Way, Brooklane Drive, 49th Street, 45th Street, Birdsong, 26th Street, 29th Street, 30th Street, Grant Avenue, Washington Avenue, Alexander Avenue, Thompson Street, Harrison Boulevard, Van Buren Avenue, Garfield Avenue, Glenridge Drive, Ponderosa Avenue, and lower elevation areas of Witham Hill Drive and Elks Drive. 
  • Priority 3 
    All other local roads and facilities not listed as Priority 1 or 2. Streets and areas include residential streets that connect to arterial and collector streets listed in Priority 2 and City owned public parking lots. 
  • Priority 4 
    Streets and areas in this category include: Higher elevation areas (Skyline West, South Hills, Garryanna, Rolling Green, Estaview, Elmwood, Myrtlewood, Witham Hill, Elks Drive), the Corvallis Municipal Airport, and Cul-de-sacs.

Note: Except when requested by fire or police, plowing and sanding will not take place in the following areas: private streets, streets and cul-de-sacs exceeding 15% grade, alleys, and streets maintained by other agencies (ODOT, Benton County, and OSU).
Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Is bottled water safer than tap water?

Like tap water, the safety of bottled water depends both on the source water and the treatment process. Because bottled water is considered a food product, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Starting this year, the FDA will require bottled water manufacturers to test their source water and the finished product once a year; however, the quality of the finished product is not government monitored. Any bottled water that contains contaminants in excess of the allowable level is considered mislabeled unless it has a statement of substandard quality. If you use bottled water, consider it a food product and refrigerate it after opening. 

The use of bottled water or home treatment devices is a personal choice, which may be based on taste preferences. If however, you use these products for health reasons, we suggest that you thoroughly research the product you are selecting to assure that it offers the level of protection you are seeking. 

Category: Water Treatment
Is it safe?

Where necessary, the sealant will be covered with a fine layer of sand to limit tracking. However, caution is still advised. When the material is first applied, it is extremely hot (400°), wet, sticky, and very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings. For the safety of children and pets, please keep them off the streets on the day your street is sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Is it true that City of Corvallis property owners are taxed twice for the library district because they are both in the county and the city?

It is true that Corvallis residents pay for the Library in both City of Corvallis property taxes and in the Library Service District property taxes. This was known and discussed at length at the time the Library Service District was put into place by voters.

Category: Financial Budget
Is washing my personal car in my driveway or street considered a violation?

Discharge from individual residential car washing would not be a violation of this ordinance (Section 4.04.030). Although residential car washing is allowed, the City encourages citizens to prevent soap and car grime from entering streams by taking cars to a commercial car wash. In Corvallis, commercial car washes are connected to the City sanitary system, which can treat and remove pollutants. The City Stormwater Program also has a free SudSafe carwash kit for loan to keep suds, dirt, and oils out of the storm system,. This kit is available for stream-friendly car wash fundraisers! 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
I’ve heard about dioxin. What is it?

Dioxin is one of a group of chemicals called chlorinated organics. These compounds form when chlorine reacts with organic materials, like leaves, woody material, or decaying plants, in the water. Formation of these compounds depends on several factors including: the amount of organic material present, the concentration and form of chlorine, and the amount of time the chlorine is in contact with the organic material. Dioxin is a highly complex compound that generally only forms when large quantities of organic material and chlorine are in contact for long periods of time. The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level for dioxin in drinking water is 30 parts per quadrillion (ppq). We have been testing for the presence of dioxin in city water since 1991. To date, dioxin has not been detected in our finished drinking water. 

Category: Water Treatment
I’ve heard about THMs in the news lately. What are they?

When organic materials (such as the algae, leaves, or decaying plants found in untreated source water) react with the chlorine disinfectant during the treatment process, disinfection by-products can be created. Some of these by-products form a group of chemicals called trihalomethanes, or THMs. In excessive quantities, these by-products may have harmful health effects. The maximum contaminant level (MCL) of trihalomethanes allowed in drinking water is 100 parts per billion. 

As part of the 1997 Taylor Plant upgrade, enhanced treatment processes and four new filters were installed to help us meet federal drinking water regulations regarding THMs. These improvements have dramatically increased the plant’s efficiency for removing particles that may contain organic material from the source water. The treatment process has also been modified so that chlorine is only added to the water in the final step of treatment. These improvements will help ensure that the formation of disinfection by-products is kept to a minimum. 

Category: Water Treatment
Other Services - If the City is in so much financial trouble, why doesn’t it just not do . . .

There are a lot of suggestions made about ending programs. This FAQ is a gathering spot for some of the ideas suggested in public forums, editorials, or community gatherings. Some of the more common suggestions and the City’s response include:

  • Cut the Housing Assistance program – this program is not funded by any property taxes.
  • Cut the newsletter – the City is often cited as the best source of information for many in the community about what is going on in the City. The print version was cut in 2002, replaced as an on-line only publication, but it was quickly added back due to the complaints and the dramatic drop in survey respondents reporting they had enough information about the City. Nevertheless, when additional reductions were required in City services for the FY12-13 cycle, budget for the newsletter was cut again; as of July 1, 2012 the newsletter is available as an online-only publication.  Those interested in receiving the newsletter via e-mail may sign up for the e-notification system on the City’s website.
  • Cut maintenance workers or decrease maintenance of flower beds instead of Police or Firefighters – this can and is considered each budget cycle, as noted in previous discussions with the Budget Commission. However, only cuts in Parks and Recreation or certain General Fund Facilities Maintenance work would impact the property tax funds. Workers in utilities or street maintenance are not funded by property taxes.
  • The City’s web site fails to tell us how many are on the City’s payroll – the City’s entire FY16-17 Adopted Budget is on the web site. Page 35 shows how many positions the City has authorized for the year. All told, the City employs between 500 and 650 people annually when summertime seasonal and temporary employees are working.
  • Cut the most recent additions - more recently added programs are considered for elimination by all departments when cuts are needed. However, each Department Director, along with Advisory Boards and Commissions, need to prioritize the entire menu of services offered to determine what to put on a cut list; the newest programs may be the most cost/beneficial to citizens, and so are not always the most reasonable to eliminate in all circumstances. 
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Is there a list of enhancements and FTE changes over the last several years updated for the current status of same?

Answer: In Attachment 2 of the February 4, 2010 special Budget Commission meeting packet there is a list of enhancements added in the six years prior to that date and the status of each at that time. In Attachment 3 from that same packet is a table of FTE counts by Department dating back to 2000. This table summarizes the increases and decreases in staffing for each department over the last decade. The FY 16-17 Adopted Budget Document also shows trending information on City staffing beginning on page 35.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What can the City do to be more efficient?

City staff have taken a number of actions over the last decade to become more efficient in operations, and in how monies are expended and continuously look for improvements to City operations ongoing. Departments have been reorganized, new data management systems implemented to both improve staff efficiency and customer service, positions reduced or eliminated, public and private partnerships put in place/maintained, and bond issues have been advance refunded to take advantage of the market and achieve real dollar savings in debt service payments. Up until FY12-13 when the membership cost was eliminated from the Budget, Corvallis participated in the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA) – Center for Performance Measurement (CPM) process where a set of standard measures are tracked each year. Corvallis has usually shown high marks when compared to similar sized cities from Oregon and the nation. The City also has tracked historical trends on its own operations that it reports quarterly to demonstrate improving efficiencies or potential for same with a change in related resources. Some examples of such measures are included in the Quarterly Operating Reports published on the City's website.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What does the City really do with the donations I make on my utility bill?

It depends on the donation since there are several types.

  • For the Voluntary Low Income Assistance Donation Program donations, the City provides the monies to the United Way. When citizens approach the City for help with their bills the City refers the person to the United Way, which uses the donation monies to pay the person’s City utility bill. The United Way works with people who are in need to facilitate assistance for a wide variety of payments (City utility bills, electric bills, rent assistance, etc.) and can also work with people on getting them into counseling, job re-training programs or similar safety net programs.
  • For the Voluntary Parks Donation Programs donations, the monies are deposited in the Parks & Recreation Fund and are used to pay for a portion of the costs for the Youth Parks Corps program which is a part-time summer employment opportunity for youth between 14 and 16 years of age. Youth learn some basic employment skills working on a wide variety of projects in City parks.
  • For the Voluntary Library Donation Program the monies are deposited in the Library Fund and are used for the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Which City facilities (senior center, aquatic center, etc.) pay for themselves, and which don't? Why don't the ones that don't cover their expenses raise their fees?

None of the City’s facilities pay for themselves except the Water, Wastewater, and Storm Water systems and the Corvallis Municipal Airport. Fees for activities are reviewed annually. The review takes into account both the coverage and the elasticity of demand related to the fee. For all City facilities except those which currently cover all costs, if the City set fees high enough to cover all costs without the use of property taxes, many people who currently use the services and or facilities would not be able to afford it, which could lower total fee revenue and as fewer people use the service, would defeat the purpose of having these as public facilities.

Category: Financial Budget
Please provide information on the amount spent on law enforcement in Corvallis and the % of those expenditures as part of both the property tax funded expenditures as well as of total Citywide ops?
 
The best source of info for questions like these is the City's most recent Budget Document. Within the FY16-17 document, this particular information can be found on pages: pg. 22 (for total Police budget vs. total Citywide or for General Fund Police budget vs. total General Fund budget); or pg. 146 (Department summary for Police Dept - breaks down General Fund/9-1-1 Fund and Parking Fund portion of the total Police Budget). Although Parking Fund information was not specifically sought in the question above, the provision of same helps paint a more complete picture. Some data has been summarized in the table below:
 

 FY 16-17 Exp. Budget

 % General Fund Exp. Budget

 % Citywide Oper. Exp. Budget
Police - General Fund (1) 

 $12,549,750

28.8% 

12.9% 

Police - 911 Fund (2)

 2,388,730

 see footnote (2)

 2.4%

Police - Parking Fund (3) 

 291,420

 0%

 0.3%
Police - Vehicle/Equip Reserve Fund 

 88,920

  

 0.1%

Total Police Dept. Operating Bgt.

 15,318,820

 

 15.7%

Total Property Tax Funds - Oper. Exp. 

 43,554290

 100%

 44.6%

Total Citywide Operating Exp. 

 97,633,900

 

 100.0%

(1) Primarily property tax funded - included in General Fund.

(2) Approximately 50% funded by Property Taxes via Police & Fire in FY 16-17 (but in its own fund).

(3) Primarily funded by parking fine revenue in own fund (no property taxes). Additional interesting and helpful information regarding both the Police Department and the overall City budget is available on the City's website under the Finance Department “Financial Documents & Resources” location.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - How come the "important" stuff, like police and fire, are always at the top of the chopping block?

Police and Fire are not always on the top of the chopping block. However, combined, these two departments represent almost 56% of the total operating expenses in the General Fund, and nearly 68% of the draw on non-designated revenues. If cuts are not discussed or considered then there is no way to balance the impact of cuts on other services – Parks, Library, Land- Use Planning, Municipal Court, Economic Development – against alternatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Is there a study of Police Management and Detectives staffing levels?

The Matrix Police Staffing Study did not highlight anything on supervisors to line staff ratios as an area where management could be decreased to allow more line officers. Since Council did not support pursuing a comparable jurisdiction survey by the Local Government Performance Institute (LGPI) during the FY 11-12 budget process, due to the timing and cost of the proposal, staff did some additional research on both Police Department management to officer ratios in other cities and all other departments’ management and line staff FTE to workload ratios which was presented during the January 27, 2011 presentation to Budget Commission.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why can't we reduce Police staffing?

The City has commissioned staffing studies for both Police Officer staffing levels and 9-1-1 Dispatch staffing levels. Both reports indicate that additional staff is needed to meet minimum standards and best practice levels of service. To read more, see these reports. In addition, the League of Oregon Cities published a research report titled “City Police Officer Data – 2009” that provides detailed tables and analysis of the number of full-time officers in city police departments. LOC developed this report using data from the Oregon State Police, Law Enforcement Data Systems (LEDS). In order to look at the trend in city police departments, LOC’s data tables look at the number of officers and the officers per 1,000 people in 1999 and 2009. LOC also formats the data to look at trends based on population size. It is important to note however, the number of officers used in this study are from LEDS and not from the individual departments. LEDS numbers of sworn officers is based upon a moment in time and based upon the number of officers currently listed with LEDS to access the LEDS system. The department staffing numbers may not necessarily represent authorized FTE counts since vacancies, at a minimum, are excluded.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why did the City build/staff another firehouse when they should have seen money getting tight?

A considerable amount of work was done when the Zimbrick Station (located on Walnut) was built and staffed eight years ago. Fire Department response times are critical in cases of both fire and medical emergencies. To meet minimum response times in the growing northwest part of town and for the Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District a new station was needed. While calls for service in the intervening years have continued to grow, and despite the strong probability of increased response times for Fire-related emergencies, the Zimbrick Station was closed effective June 16, 2012 based on cost reductions necessary to balance the City’s budget. A study was conducted for the FY 12-13 budget cycle that determined closing the Zimbrick station in combination with moving an ambulance and reorganizing response team staffing should result in improved EMS response times for medical emergencies, which represent the largest number of calls received by the department. With growing northwest populations however, it is not clear that keeping the station closed long-term will be viable for life safety issues. There is increased risk that may be apparent in insurance premiums paid by homeowners in recent and ensuing years.

Studies done when the Zimbrick Station was being considered, as well as the 2012 study that resulted in the Station's closure, are available for review here:

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the City get franchise money from Comcast? If so, hasn't that been increasing enough to offset the Qwest land line losses?

Comcast began paying franchise fees on phone service in FY 2009. Annual revenues although growing, are still less than $170,000 per year, so have not served to offset the land line losses.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the property tax budget issue affect all City operations?

No. It only affects the operations funded by property taxes and other non-designated revenues. The primary services funded by these sources include Police, Fire, Library, Land-Use Planning, Economic Development, Municipal Court and Parks and Recreation. While there are always financial challenges to do with user fee rate setting in the water, sewer, storm water, airport, housing, parking, transit or development services funds, these services do not receive any property tax revenue so service priorities are more standalone in nature.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How can you say that property taxes are not growing – my taxes went up last year?

Oregon constitutional tax limits allow each property’s assessed value to increase 3% every year unless the property’s real market value is reduced to below the assessed value. In Benton County, residential property is generally assessed at about 60% of the real market value, so even in the down economy, drops in real market value have not stopped the 3% increase in assessed value on many parcels of property. For example, if your home had a real market value of $300,000 and assessed value of around $180,000 (60% of real market value), your property’s real market value would have to drop to below $180,000 to see a reduction in property taxes.

Other classes of property, like industrial property, have real market value close to the assessed value, and with declining real market value the assessed value, and the taxes that are paid, decline each year. Industrial property is such a large proportion of the City’s total assessed value that the overall reductions in their value, particularly with successful revaluations by tax payers such as Hewlett-Packard, bring the total growth in all assessed value down to less than 3%. For FY13-14, the City’s total assessed value, and property tax revenue, increased by only 1.49%; however, FY 14-15 saw a 4.28% increase, and FY 15-16 saw only a 2.49% increase, bringing the average over the prior ten years to 2.73%.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How much franchise fee revenue has been lost from Qwest by the move from land lines to cell phones?

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - If the proportion of the total revenues impacted by property taxes is less than 50% of total revenue, why is this such a big deal?

Though property tax sources are only about 30% of the City’s total operations, when looking at General Fund operations alone, the combination of permanent rate taxes, Operating Levy dollars, Library district and Rural Fire district monies as well as other non-dedicated revenue sources provide more than 70% of the monies for the fire, land-use planning and police and more than 50% for library, parks & recreation and economic development services. Many of these are services where there is either no real way to charge specific users or where the charges would be so high that very few could afford to use the service.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Is there a way to have a tiered tax rate levy?

There does not appear to be anything in statute that would allow a multi-rate levy. However, a higher rate levy can be underlevied – as has occurred with the 509J levy where voter approval is for a maximum rate, but the District has chosen in some years to levy less than the maximum allowed.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Since there is a declining industrial property tax base, what contributions does OSU make for City services that are provided to campus (and other state/federal property in the city limits)?

OSU, along with all other state property used for state purposes, is exempt from all property taxes. So when the Hilton was built, on OSU land, there was some talk about it being tax exempt -- not true since it does not provide a governmental (or educational) purpose. In Corvallis, OSU has a significant presence and also a substantial amount of land and value in buildings. In the late 90's OSU had insurance coverage for $800 to $900 million -- it is likely safe to assume the real market value for this land may well be in excess of $1 billion now. In addition to OSU, all City, County, School District, and federal government facilities are exempt from property taxes as long as the property is used for governmental purposes. While not discussed much in the popular press, this is a big issue for county governments where the county has a significant chunk of land tied up in federal or state forest land. For cities, Salem, Eugene, and Corvallis all have significant state/university presence that takes a fair amount of property off the tax rolls. In addition to government, taxes are not levied on churches or synagogues, or on non-profit facilities such as the Boys and Girls Club. In general, the City provides all services to all facilities inside the City limits. About the only exception is that the Police Department does not provide police service to the OSU campus, but they certainly have a fair share of work in the neighborhoods around the campus. The Transit System has built a number of routes designed to get people to and from the campus, and the Fire Department responds to all emergency calls there. The City does not maintain the roads on campus, but has all the responsibility for the roads (and bike paths) that get people to the campus. As for payment from these non-profits: OSU, other governments, and all non-profits pays for water/sewer/storm drain service monthly based on usage. By extension, they all also pay the Transportation Maintenance Fee on the City Services Bill. OSU makes an additional contribution each year to the Transit System for operations and the ASOSU assesses fees to OSU students which are passed on the City to help pay for the late night Beaver Bus program. OSU also provides funding for a portion of one Fire Prevention Officer's time onsite, which is FY16-17 amounts to a payment of $90,000. Beginning in FY 17-18, OSU will be providing $400,000 in funding toward 3.0 FTE Police Officer positions. By using departmental savings from FY 15-16, these three positions will be hired in FY 16-17 so that they can be fully trained in time to provide services in FY 17-18.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - What are non-designated revenues?

Also referred to as "non-dedicated," these are the revenues which the City receives without strings attached on their use by other entities, and include property taxes levied for operations, franchise fees, a portion of transient room taxes, plus certain state shared revenues (cigarette and alcohol tax based). Combined, these revenues typically total just 30% of the City’s total revenue stream, but are more than 70% of the revenue for the property tax supported operations. All of the City’s other $60 million in revenue is designated, meaning there is a mandate from another entity (usually state or federal law) that limits what the money can be spent on.

Category: Financial Budget
Sometimes my water smells like chlorine. Why is that?

The Taylor and Rock Creek facilities both treat the water with chlorine. Low doses of chlorine act as a disinfectant protecting you against disease-causing microorganisms in the water. We are required by law to add disinfectant in order to meet state and federal regulatory mandates for safe drinking water. 

If you find the chlorine taste unpleasant, try filling a container with water and keeping it loosely capped in the refrigerator. 

Category: Water Treatment
The City plowed snow into my driveway and onto my sidewalk, when are they going to come back and remove it?

Our goal is to clear the roadway for safe travel. Unfortunately, berming is an inconvenient result of plowing. Adjacent property owners are responsible for clearing the berm to gain access to the roadway. We do not have the available resources to provide this service, and this is one way you can help.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What are some examples of ordinance violations?

A few common example violations include dumping used car oil or washing paint brushes into City storm drains, connecting a sink drain to the City storm system, or dumping litter or yard debris directly in a Corvallis stream. This is, however, not a comprehensive list of violations. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to review the ordinance to learn what personal activities may be affected by this new ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What are the meanings of sharrow markings (two chevrons with a bicycle symbol) on the road?

Sharrows are road markings used to show motorist that people riding bicycles may “take the lane” and helps show the bicycle rider good lane positioning. Use the sharrow marking to guide you where to ride within the lane.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If you need non-emergency assistance, please call 541-766-6924.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What does the ordinance cover?

The ordinance protects all parts of the City stormwater system, which includes City infrastructure, as well as natural features like streams from any pollutant that changes the physical, chemical, or biological properties of the stormwater. (For more information, see section 4.04.020 for a definition of pollutant and storm drainage system). 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What else is Corvallis doing to protect water quality through stormwater pollution prevention?

Since 2004, the City has taken steps to improve water quality and reduce The City is Doing It's Part Preventing Stormwater Pollution stormwater pollution in a variety of ways. We've enacted land development codes that protect waterways from pollution that can occur from urban development and created a robust program to monitor construction activities to ensure best practices. In addition, the City Stormwater Program regularly educates and engages Corvallis residents, students, and businesses in preventing stormwater pollution prevention. For more information, please visit the City Stormwater Program. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What happens if I violate the ordinance?

If the City becomes aware of a violation, the first step taken by the City will be to contact the responsible party and provide information about the issue and the water quality implications. If no action is taken to address the issue, then a formal letter will be sent, as is outlined in section 4.04.090.020 of the proposed ordinance. If sufficient action is still not taken then a fine no less than $100 and no more than $20,000 and/or 30 days in jail may be issued. In some cases, an alternative compensatory action may be substituted for fines and jail time. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What if I don't know what to do at an arraignment, how to plead or proceed?

The Municipal Court Judge can grant you a continuance for you to get legal advice. You must ask the judge, at the arraignment time set by the officer, to get additional time and to have a new date to appear assigned to you. Neither the Judge nor court staff can give you legal advice.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What if this happened in another city?

If the incident you would like to report took place outside of the City of Corvallis, please call the police department for that city.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on a state freeway?

 If this took place on a state freeway please call the Oregon State Police Office nearest you.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on the Oregon State University campus?

If your incident occurred on the OSU campus, please call 541-737-3010 to file your report.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you, or someone you know, has information that you believe will identify the person(s) who committed the crime.  This could include video surveillance, someone who can identify the suspect, or license plate information for the suspect's vehicle.  If there is a known suspect, please call us at 541-766-6924 so we can investigate the incident.  

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a violation? What is a misdemeanor?

A violation is a minor infraction in which punishment is limited to a fine only. A misdemeanor is a minor crime in which punishment is limited to imprisonment of up to one year, a fine or both. 
 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is the first appearance before a court to answer to a charge. When you receive a citation, you must enter a plea of either guilty, no contest, or not guilty to the court. This entry of plea is done at arraignment. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What is crack seal?

Crack seal is a hot, sticky, petroleum-based pavement crack and joint sealant. It does not resurface the entire street – it just fills cracks. The sealant forms a long-lasting, resilient seal which is flexible and expandable in varying and extreme pavement temperatures. Crack sealing prevents the invasion of surface water between the layers of asphalt and sub-grade rock, thus preventing premature pavement failures, deterioration and potholes. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
What is the overall purpose of the “Maintaining Public Streets during Snow and Ice Events” policy?

The purpose of this policy is to clarify and describe the City’s snow removal and sanding priorities and the level of service that is intended to be provided by City crews. The City does not guarantee that streets will be free of snow and ice after plowing and/or sanding. Bare, dry pavement should not be expected. The City will attempt to maintain adequate traction for vehicles properly equipped for winter driving conditions.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What is the risk of Cryptosporidium in our water?

Cryptosporidium 

(krip-toe-spor-ID-eum) is a microscopic organism that is naturally present in bodies of water throughout the world. Swallowing these tiny organisms can cause an intestinal illness known as cryptosporidiosis, although some persons infected with Cryptosporidium do not get sick. Symptoms include stomach cramps, upset stomach, and diarrhea. For most healthy people, the illness runs its course in a few weeks without serious consequences. However, for the elderly, young children, or for people with weakened immune systems, the disease can be life threatening. 

Cryptosporidiosis can be transmitted by swallowing contaminated water or food (such as unwashed fruits and vegetables), or by touching your mouth or putting anything in your mouth that has touched the feces of a person or animal with cryptosporidioisis. This includes diapers, farm or yard equipment, and pet waste. Studies have shown that about 1/3 of the population has been recently exposed to this germ, indicating that there are many sources of exposure. 

We have been testing city water for Cryptosporidium since 1994. The results indicate that no Cryptosporidium organisms have been detected. We believe the risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis from city tap water is quite low, however, if you are infected with HIV or have AIDS, are a cancer patient, are taking immunosuppressive drugs after a transplant, or were born with a weakened immune system, we encourage you to consult with your physician. Health officials may suggest that you take additional precautions, such as boiling drinking water for one minute before consuming it. 

Category: Water Treatment
What should I move out of the street during snow and ice removal in my area?

Residents are asked to remove their parked vehicles, boats, and trailers from city streets if possible. The City will not be responsible for vehicles parked on the street that are isolated by snow piles due to plowing operations. 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What was the impact on the City of the Court decision to uphold Hewlett-Packard’s (HP) appeal of its assessed valuation (AV) for property taxes?

In the summer of 2013, after the City’s FY 13-14 Budget was adopted, the State Department of Revenue filed an appeal of the award made to HP by the Oregon Supreme Court, thereby deferring the requirement to refund about $385,000 (city’s share) in interest until this later appeal is resolved. This adjustment, as well as other refinements for reserves held by the County, reduced the City’s direct portion of monies owed to HP to $1.4 million. This amount was paid in July 2013; additional revenue impacts to the City were monies owed by the Corvallis Rural Fire District ($88,726) and the Corvallis-Benton County Library Service District ($149,421). This $238,000 in payouts has decreased FY 13-14 payments to the City by these entities. The County has indicated that additional holdbacks will be made in FY 14-15 for the interest that is still potentially owed to HP. This situation impacts all General Fund services (i.e. Police, Fire, CD-Planning, Parks & Recreation, Library, Economic Development and Municipal Court), but was somewhat alleviated for future years with the passage of the November 2013 Five-year Operating Levy which provides approximately $600,000 per year in non-designated revenues designed to replace the lost funding for the lower HP valuation. City Council was provided with the linked memos below, as staff continues to work on a resolution of this financial situation. Ultimately, as of August 6, 2015 the Oregon Supreme Court reaffirmed the Tax Court's decision. 

HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome
HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome - Second Memo
Property Tax Assessed Value FY13-14
Benton County Press Release August 2015

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
When do you have arraignments?

Arraignments are:

Mondays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

  • 3 p.m. Criminal Arraignments

Thursdays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
When do you plow?

Plowing will begin when accumulating snow exceeds approximately two (2) inches.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
When do you sand?

Sanding will begin as soon as slick street conditions materialize. Sanding operations will stop if snow accumulations are covering over applied sand, making sanding operations ineffective.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Where can I get a copy of an ordinance?

The City Recorder at City Hall has all ordinances and you may request a copy. There is a 25¢ per page copy fee.

Please contact the City Recorder at (541) 766-6901 for more information. You may also go to the Public Library (645 NW Monroe, Corvallis, Oregon, 97330) where the Library staff can assist you in locating specific ordinances. 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Who clears the sidewalk in front of my business or residence?

All sidewalks and walkways adjacent to City-owned and maintained property and public parking lots are cleared by the City. Public sidewalks and private parking lots are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. Sidewalks not cleared within 24 hours after the snow and/or ice event has concluded can be subject to code enforcement actions (Municipal Code 5.04.050, Nuisances affecting public safety). 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Who should I contact if I notice plants, branches, leaf piles or other obstructions in the bike lane? What if objects block my line of sight?

We look toward our community in assistance for identifying issues like these and have set up an online form so you can quickly report hazards 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Once our team receives the issue you have identified, we quickly take steps on proper mitigation if there is a problem. You can get started by visiting Corvallis Connect, our online service request portal, to report the issue. 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Who will be affected by this ordinance?

The Corvallis storm system connects most of our City to waterways via storm drains. This means that all residents, businesses, and industries could be potentially impacted by this ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
Why are city staff releasing water from fire hydrants? Doesn't that waste water?

Technicians routinely flush water mains to keep our drinking water clean by removing rust and sediment that might be trapped in the distribution system. Flushing also allows crews to make sure all the valves and fire hydrants are operating as they should. To help protect the environment, the chlorine is removed from this water before it is discharged into the storm drain system. The chlorine in the water could be harmful to aquatic life, and most storm drains discharge directly into Corvallis’ urban streams.

Category: Water Conservation
Why are some bike lanes painted green?

A green bike lane enhances the visibility of a bicycle lane in places where there is a potential for conflict with motor vehicles. In Corvallis, we add these to bike lanes where automobile traffic crosses a bike lane. The dashed green strip shows a mixing zone where all users must be most cautious.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Why does the snow plow go down the street with the plow up?

There are many reasons for them to be traveling with the plow up. For example, the plow could be traveling back to the shop for repairs or there may not be enough snow on the street to plow.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Why is the flight path for the Corvallis Airport over the heavily populated area rather than away from it? Is this really something that cannot be changed, or attempted to be changed?

This question comes up each year when the weather gets nicer and people start working outside or keeping their windows open. This approach can’t be changed because it is the all-weather Instrument Landing System (ILS) precision approach to Runway 17, our main runway. Instrument landing systems are one of two types of precision approaches which allow an aircraft to safely land in all types of weather. Usually, they are only found at commercial airports because they cost millions of dollars. Ours was installed in the 1980’s when commercial flights were operating out of Corvallis. It is maintained by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is part of what draws business jets and charter flights into Corvallis, especially in the winter. It is setup on our main runway coming from the north because 70% of the time that is where the prevailing winds are coming from (the south). The safest direction for aircraft to land is into the wind. Aircraft use that approach each day, usually one or two dozen aircraft, including the US Army National Guard helicopters from Salem, the USCG helicopters from Newport and Astoria, FEDEX, UPS, business jets, and our local REACH Air Medical air ambulance. REACH requires this approach for operation out of Corvallis. They use it when returning from ambulance calls at night and in bad weather, and would have to relocate to another airport if the ILS was shutdown. Again, no other runway or direction would work for this approach. While we could ask the FAA to decommission the ILS at Corvallis, they normally require the airport sponsor (City of Corvallis in this case) to repay the FAA for the last 20 years of maintenance and improvements that have been made to that system. This is one of the “Grants and Assurances” we signed as part of our acceptance of FAA grant funds over the years. This would also reduce and possibly eliminate any business or charter aircraft coming into Corvallis, especially in the winter and bad weather months. Why is this approach used during the nice weather when you can see forever? Pilots are required to recertify on this system regularly, and they are not allowed to practice or get this certification training in bad weather.

Category: Airport
Why should we be concerned with water conservation in Corvallis?

Even when the water supply is adequate, conservation is simply a wise use of a precious resources. Conservation can contribute to a healthy environment, reduce your water bill, and ensure an adequate water supply for years. Using water wisely just makes good $ense! 

Category: Water Conservation
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water interferes with the crack-sealing process, so we ask residents not to water lawns, wash cars, or engage in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day their street is crack-sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will access to my street be affected?

You may drive on the street, but on-street parking will be prohibited. Sidewalks will not be closed. Postal, garbage, and recycling services will be notified before work begins, and there should be no or minimal interruption of these services during the work. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will you be clearing bike paths?

We will attempt to plow or sand bike lanes on the streets; however, limited time and resources prevent us from plowing or sanding bike paths that are separate from the roadways.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
¿Qué es un sospechoso conocido?

Un sospechoso conocido es cuando usted (o alguien presente) conoce a la persona o donde encontrar a la persona que cometió el crimen o el número de la patente del auto donde iba el sospechoso.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué hago si realizar una denuncia en línea no es lo apropiado en mi caso?

Si su incidente es una emergencia, llame al 911. Si no es una emergencia llame al 541-766-6924.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué pasa si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal?

Si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal por favor llame a la Patrulla de Autopistas de más cercana.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Si el incidente ocurre en otra ciudad, puedo utilizar este sistema de denuncia?

 No, si el crimen ocurrió fuera de la ciudad de Corvallis Police Department por favor llame al departamento de policía de la ciudad que corresponda.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
Is the City of Corvallis budget in line with other cities?

The budget for Corvallis is comparable to similarly sized cities, though a straight apples-to-apples comparison can be difficult. The City’s comparators include Albany, Bend, Springfield, Tigard, and Medford. In some of those communities, Parks and Recreation, Library, and Fire services may be provided by a separate taxing entity. This can make city-to-city comparisons more difficult. But where comparisons can be made, we line up.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Can we do more with less?

The City’s costs to continue providing existing services grow faster than revenue grows. As a result, the City has been cutting back on costs for a number of years, even as the total budget has grown. The City actively pursues methods for conserving and cutting costs. Significant efforts in recent years have included building solar power stations using grant monies to help offset significant electrical costs, changing to LED street lights as well as moving to LED lighting in buildings. Even with these changes and the cost savings associated with them, other costs are growing faster than revenues.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Should salaries be adjusted downwards? Can we put a hold on raises?

Salary and benefits for most City employees are negotiated with the four labor unions that represent them (Police, Fire, 911 and General Service Employees). The only group not represented by a labor union is management staff and a few confidential employees who are exempt employees.

Negotiations with the labor unions must meet the requirements set forth in the Oregon law, known as the Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act. This law requires us to look at what similar sized comparator agencies are paying in total compensation. In addition, the City has a compensation policy that states the City will be within +/- 5% of the average of our comparators.

The City is unable to decrease salaries or withhold negotiated pay increases without bargaining those changes with the labor unions that represent City staff.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
I pay over $4,000 a year in property taxes. How much goes to Corvallis?

Roughly one-third of your total property tax bill goes to the City of Corvallis. If you are paying $4,000 in property tax, you are paying City taxes of $1,119 for the permanent tax rate, $180 for the local option levy, and $55 for voter-approved debt for a total of $1,354. This is about 34% of the total property taxes you pay.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
With all the new apartments I’m seeing around town, why isn’t there more funding for our services?

All newly developed property is added to the tax rolls at lower than real market value as a result of tax laws in Oregon. Multi-family property added in 2016 has an assigned assessed value of 62% of the real market value, so if you look at an apartment with a $1 million value, the assessed value would be $620,000 and that tax bill for the City’s permanent rate would be $3,166.

As an example, The Retreat at Oak Creek, which was added to the tax rolls with fully developed real market value of $95 million has an assigned assessed value of $58.5 million. The taxes they will pay for the City’s permanent rate total $299,000, not the $485,140 they would have paid if assessed at full market value.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
How are OSU and Samaritan Services contributing to the City’s Budget? How are their property taxes assessed?

Neither OSU nor Samaritan Health Services pays property taxes on their facilities used for their operations. Both pay taxes on parcels used by for-profit operations. For example, the Hilton Hotel parcel is taxed even though it is on OSU property.

However, OSU voluntarily contributes to Transit, Fire Prevention and Police Department staffing.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Have you considered taxing Oregon State University?

Yes. However, state law does not allow it. OSU contributes to Transit Operations, Fire Prevention, and funds three police officers. OSU also pays all required fees (e.g., building permits, transportation maintenance fees, system development charges).

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why not require Oregon State University to create their own Police force or pay Corvallis to Police for them?

OSU uses the Oregon State Police Department for on-campus policing service. The City Police Department provides all policing services off-campus. In 2016, the City and OSU agreed on a cooperative effort and OSU is granting $1.2 million to Corvallis Police over 3 years to support local law enforcement. This is an unprecedented collaboration.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
We spend the bulk of City funds on Police. Is this needed or can we become more automated and efficient?

The City has made significant investments in efficiency automation for the Police department over the years, including investigative technology, online self-reporting of certain allowable offenses, social media and text-to-911 for emergency dispatch. The City implemented e-citations for both Police and Parking with automated download features. In short, the Police Department is a technologically advanced department and currently maximizes allowable public safety technology.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why are the calls for service for the Fire Department going up? Do we charge people for these calls?

Corvallis Fire Department is an ‘all hazard’ department, meaning we provide fire, rescue, emergency planning and prevention services for the City of Corvallis and Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District.

In addition, we provide transport ambulance services for the majority of Benton County and a portion of Linn County (765 square mile area). Also, we provide hazardous materials response in partnership with the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Albany Fire Department and Lebanon Fire District covering Linn, Benton, Lincoln and Polk counties.

Calls for service increase as our population grows and as our demographics change with people getting older. As mobile phones have become commonplace, calls for service have increased. In addition, the Fire Department role has evolved – when people have a problem they don’t know how to handle, they often call the Fire Department. We are often called to assist community members with everything from personal care issues to actual hazard mitigation such as ruptured gas lines.

The Fire Department ambulance service is supported by user fees, and there are a number of cost recovery fees in place for responses such as non-resident motor vehicle crashes; violations of the fire code; out of district responses to ‘un-covered’ areas.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Is the City’s fareless transit system really sustainable?

Fareless Transit was implemented by the City Council to achieve several goals.

One was to increase ridership by creating a barrier-free system, especially for low income residents. This goal has been achieved by a system generating more than 1 million rides a year in a town of 58,735 people.

Another goal was to improve the system’s on-time operation by eliminating the time it took for people to drop fares in the box and obtain transfer tickets. The efficiencies gained in this area have been somewhat offset by the on- and off-boarding of more passengers. However, there have been staff time savings from not having to process the coinage and produce transfer tickets. The Transit Operations Fee has the added benefit of being able to match federal transit operating grants, while fare box revenue cannot. This ensures we are able to use 100% of our federal grant allocation and not leave any federal funding on the table unspent.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why and how were these streets chosen and prioritized?

Between 2015 and 2018, the City engaged the community through open houses, public hearings, work groups, advisory committees, and a community-wide survey to create the Transportation System Plan (TSP), which was adopted by the City Council in 2018. It was during this process that the low-stress network was identified to improve walking and biking conditions throughout Corvallis. The streets chosen provide an alternative to adjacent, higher volume roadways for those on foot, wheel or mobility device.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why does the City run a parking program, anyway? I should be able to park where I want.

Parking in Corvallis is managed by the City to balance the availability and convenience of public parking in neighborhoods and business districts throughout the community. Public parking is not intended for long-term vehicle storage, nor does any business, neighborhood, or household “own” the public parking spots in front of their property. The Corvallis community is also interested in minimizing vehicle trips to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adjusting the pricing for public parking meters in Corvallis is one of the tools that can help achieve those goals.

Category: Parking
If we don’t have money, why are we funding low income housing which will not provide revenue?

Most of the funding for affordable housing comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), not local funds. The City enacted a new affordable housing Construction Excise Tax in 2016 which is assessed against building permits and not funded by property taxes. By state law, the City can utilize this excise tax revenue to support affordable housing.

Additionally, there is a strong desire for people who work in Corvallis to be able to live here. Without additional affordable housing opportunities, many people who work in Corvallis will continue to live outside the city and commute, adding to street congestion and carbon emissions.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Where does the money I pay in meter fees and citations go?

All fees collected from parking customers stays in the Parking Fund and is used to maintain, operate, and regulate parking facilities. Parking Fund money doesn’t go to pay for police cars or fill potholes or replace streetlights. Rates are adjusted as needed to ensure that the system is used consistent with adopted goals and practices and to ensure that the fees collected cover the costs associated with managing parking for the entire Corvallis community. The City provides a transparent accounting of the Parking Fund each year as part of the annual budget process.

Category: Parking
Will we lose on-street parking?

Removal of on-street parking is not typically part of a Neighborhood Bikeway. However, there may be a small number of locations where parking may need to be restricted. For example, areas adjacent to intersections or where a speed hump is installed.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Could a local gas tax be used to fund streets?

It could. Some communities around Oregon have been successful at implementing a local gas tax. However, there are challenges when one community in an area implements a local gas tax and other nearby communities don’t.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
What about emergency vehicle access?

Emergency vehicle access will not be affected. The Fire and Police Departments review plans for treatments like speed humps and traffic circles to ensure they are designed to maintain emergency vehicle access. By their nature, Neighborhood Bikeways are almost entirely on low volume residential streets, which are not considered backbone emergency response routes for Police and Fire.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are parking meter rates being raised?

Meter rates haven’t been raised since 2008, while costs to maintain the system have increased. The Parking Fund can no longer sustain needed operations without borrowing from the General Fund, which is not sustainable.

Category: Parking
How do meter rates in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

We completed a parking audit recently and meter rates were compared with Eugene, Hood River, Missoula MT, Salem, and Spokane WA. Corvallis’s current typical hourly rate is $0.50, the new typical hourly rate will be $1.00, and the hourly rate of the comparator cities averages $1.23. We are still below many of our comparator cities in terms of hourly prices.

Category: Parking
What is the City doing to attract new businesses to town? What about locating businesses in the Hewlett-Packard building targeted for demolition?

The City operates the Economic Development Office through an intergovernmental agreement with Benton County. The office is charged with implementing the Economic Development Strategy.

While its focus is primarily assisting existing businesses, the Economic Development Office routinely responds to recruitment leads from the State’s Economic Development Department (Business Oregon), as well as leads from other sources. The Economic Development Office also looks for businesses to fill vacant spaces throughout Benton County, including buildings on the HP Campus. Unfortunately, there just has not been a market for 62,000 square feet of office space in the building mentioned.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will other neighborhood streets see more traffic as a result?

Though proposed treatments are designed to achieve safer, slower speeds on Neighborhood Bikeway routes, we do not expect a significant diversion to nearby streets.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are citation fees being increased?

Fees for meter and overtime violations (also known as parking tickets) have not been raised since 2003. Similar to meter rates, these fees no longer pay to cover the costs associated with managing public parking for all users, both residents and visitors.

Category: Parking
Why doesn’t the City get out of PERS and move to a defined contribution plan for all new hires? Can the City Manager stop giving PERS benefits?

By Oregon law, the City may not exit the PERS system. Even if an exit was allowed, the City would have to pay its share of the PERS Unfunded Actuarial Liability since that cost is based on benefits already earned that PERS will be required to pay out.

The City Manager does not make any decisions with regard to PERS benefits. The PERS benefit structure is the responsibility of the Oregon Legislature. If you would like to see changes, we recommend you talk with your state legislators or the Governor’s office.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will my street be closed to cars?

No. All streets will remain open to vehicle traffic. Access to homes and businesses will be unaffected.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Are you installing designated bike lanes?

The vast majority of Neighborhood Bikeway streets will have shared roadway markings (also known as “sharrows”) to indicate that the streets are shared by people bicycling and driving. Some routes are on collectors or arterials for short segments and these connections will typically have already-existing bike lanes.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What about speed limits on these streets?

All local streets in Corvallis currently have a speed limit of 25 mph. Traffic calming may achieve lower speeds without changing posted speed limits.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Road Safety Audit: 

Highland / Grant / Alexander 

Staff Response Documents:

NW Highland Drive 

NW Grant Avenue

SE Alexander Avenue

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Western Blvd - 35th St. Safety Evaluation 

35th St. Lighting Analysis

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Road Safety Audit: 

Conifer / Walnut 

Staff Response Documents: 

NE Conifer Boulevard

NE Walnut Boulevard

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Intersection Control Evaluation:

NW 9th Street & Buchanan Avenue 

Staff Response: 

NW 9th & Buchanan Intersection

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Road Safety Audit: 

NW Garfield Avenue / Appendix

Staff Response: NW Garfield Avenue 

Intersection Control Evaluation: 

NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue

Staff Response: NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue Intersection 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Staff Report (January 9, 2025 Council Work Session)

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, they will be made available at the links below.  

Road Safety Audit: <link>

Intersection Control Evaluation: <link>

Staff Response Document: <link>

Category: CIP Project Status template
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Will these streets get repaved?

Some segments of Neighborhood Bikeways will see localized repairs or patching. However, due to limited budgets, the priority for major rehabilitation projects is the collector and arterial system. For more information on future resurfacing projects, please visit the Capital Improvement Program’s latest adopted plan. To learn more about how Corvallis streets are assessed and prioritized for repairs visit the Street Maintenance webpage. If you see a small scale repair like a pothole you can report it to the City via Report A Problem (select “Pothole”). City staff will assess the location and determine if it is able to be repaired.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I ride an e-micromobility device on the sidewalk?

No. Oregon State Law prohibits riding e-bikes and e-scooters on the sidewalk.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction.  Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project.  Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on.  For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input."  Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards.  An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project.  The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will also be provided below when available. To sign up for notices about upcoming TAT meetings, [ADD HOW TO SIGN UP FOR TAT MEETING NOTICES]. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD (meeting dates/materials will be added here when available) 

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Status template
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting (Took place June 27, 2024) 

TAT Meeting Presentation (with graphics)

TAT Comment Responses

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

For more information about traffic circles, visit the Traffic Circle FAQ page.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why is the speed limit changing on Circle Boulevard?

When Circle Boulevard was extended from Dale Drive to Harrison Boulevard, a temporary speed limit was posted by the City knowing an official speed zone investigation would be required by state law. This speed zone investigation was delayed for several years because of the Covid-19 pandemic. After the pandemic when traffic volumes rebounded to more historic levels, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), who regulates speed limit postings statewide, contacted the City to initiate the speed zone investigation process. Like other states, Oregon relies heavily on the measured operating speed of vehicles using the corridor when establishing speed limits. Public perception of speed, or the speed we may want people to drive, are not factors that the State considers when setting speed limits.  Due to the outcome of this recent speed zone investigation, speed limits along this portion of Circle Boulevard must be changed.

Information on speed zones in Oregon can be found here.

Information on speed zone investigation basics can be found here.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Status template
Construction

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Construction (current phase)

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

Week of September 15, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

  • No work is planned this week.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 8, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • No work is planned for the next few weeks.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 1, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Waterline installation under Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will continue.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled start is 9/29.
    • Waterline testing, servicing and tie-overs of the new line to occur in early October.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • There will be a push to final pave the waterline trench before the rains come. Right now it is looking like that will be happening middle to late October. This will require a return in the spring to grind and final pave the remainder of Western and 35th.
  • Traffic patterns for game day, Saturday, August 30th
    • 35th Street will be closed north of the OSU Student Farm entrance (AKA Oak Creek Center for Urban Horticulture, OSU Apiary)
    • Access to the OSU Student Farm driveway will be two-way traffic on 35th Street from Western Blvd.
    • Both east side and west side sidewalks on 35th Street will be open between Sagebrush and Washington Way.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 9/1 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at the north side of Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be maintained, but there may be changes in whether it is the east or west side sidewalk that is open depending on how the waterline work is sequenced. Ped detours will be clearly marked.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 25, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Boring and insertion of waterline through casing beneath Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will be underway this week.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled  for 9/29.
    • Final asphalt trench patch to follow waterline testing and servicing.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • Timing for final paving is being evaluated. Given impacts to the schedule due to the delays with obtaining the railroad permitting, it is likely final paving will wait until Spring 2026.  More to come on paving status with next week’s update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/25 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits have been constructed at Oak Creek. The boring will begin Monday.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Resurfacing
    • Will continue on 35th, Western, and the short section of W. Hills once the waterline has been installed, tested and put into service.
    • Paving is anticipated to begin mid to late September. More defined dates on this to come in the next couple of weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/18 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

This is the last weekly update for 11th Street. The following work will occur next week and in the coming weeks as specified.

  • Striping around the traffic circle at 11th/Tyler is expected to be completed mid-week.
  • Installation of the speed hump between Taylor and Fillmore will be installed when the paving contractor comes back to complete paving on Western and 35th in mid- September.
  • The re-installation of the bike hoops in front of the Corvallis Bicycle Collective will be occurring this week.
  • Remaining landscape restorations are expected to occur in a few weeks once the weather improves to support seeding.
  • 11th Street will be opened to traffic. Expect there to be some short duration traffic pattern changes when the above-mentioned work occurs.

Week of August 11, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits will be under construction at Oak Creek.
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/18
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/11 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Deon, Western, West Hills and Ivy will remain open to traffic. Possible lane shift at 15th/Western intersection.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 11, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Grinding and paving will continue 8/11 thru 8/13.
  • Paving limits on 11th are from Van Buren to Fillmore.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to traffic during the day and reopened after working hours. Detours will be in place.

Week of August 4, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Aug 4th 35th St Sketch (click to view) 

Aug 4th Western 26 to 15 Sketch (click to view)

Aug 4th Western Hwy to W Hills Sketch (click to view)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will resume on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits either side of Oak Creek will take several days to construct
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/11
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Street grinding and paving will be occurring this week at the following locations.
    • Western Blvd – 8/4 to 8/5 between Hwy 34 and West Hills Rd.
    • Western Blvd – 8/6 to 8/7 between 26th and 15th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Western Blvd
      • 8/4 to 8/5 Western will be closed to traffic from Hwy 34 to West Hills Road. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
      • 8/6 to 8/7 Western will be closed to traffic from 26th to 15th. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
    • West Hills Rd
      • 8/4 will be closed to eastbound traffic, but open to west bound traffic. A detour will be in place for eastbound traffic that utilizes Hwy 34.
    • Ivy Pl.
      • 8/4 will be closed at Western. A detour will be in place that utilizes Deon
    • Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 4, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) is in progress at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk. These surfaces will be maintained as rock until 8/8 when base lift paving will occur.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to occur 8/11 and 8/12
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) will be occurring at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk.
    • 11th will be closed to thru traffic during the reconstruct excavation / prep activity. Open at end of shift. Intersections will remain rock until base lift paving on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to begin the week of 8/11
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 21, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 15th/Western
  • Electrical work on the 15th/Western traffic light will be occurring mid-week.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided in the next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week July 21st will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes to accommodate construction.
    • On Wednesday, 7/23, the intersection of Western Blvd and 15th St. will be reduced to one lane in each direction and controlled by 4-way stop. Temporary stop signs will be installed. The traffic signal will be turned off to accommodate electrical upgrades.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 21, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Construction of the traffic circle at 11th and Tyler will be ongoing.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.
  • Street reconstruction at the intersections of Polk/11th and Tyler/11th may get started by the end of the week.

Week of July 14, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Saw cutting will be occurring on Western between Stadium Ave and 15th.
    • Street dig outs will be occurring in Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work and or street dig outs will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when travelling in this location.
    • Flagging control on Western between 26th and 15th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • The new ADA ramps at Stadium/Western intersection will be open and fully accessible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 14, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Work will begin on construction of the Traffic circle located in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.
    • 11th street will be closed to through traffic between Harrison Blvd. and Polk Ave. during working hours.
    • Tyler Ave. will be closed to through traffic between 10th St. and 12th St. during working hours
    • During nonwork hours use extreme caution when maneuvering around the construction zone in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.

Week of July 7, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Western/Stadium Avenue
    • Sawcutting will be occurring on Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • Flagging control at the intersection of Western and 26th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 7, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 14th.

Week of June 30, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  30th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic, however lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 30, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 11th.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Ivy/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will begin;
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  23rd will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • Flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western will be in place at times.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Landscape restorations and cleanup will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 23rd will include;
    • 11th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours may still be in place a select location or two.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will start up again this week and will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work at Deon/Western and at Ivy/Western and possible work at Sagebrush/35th will be taking place and expected to last a couple of weeks.
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs were almost completed last week. They will be finishing up this week.
  • Some landscape restoration may be occurring this week behind and around the new concrete sidewalk.
  • Street paving is not planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • 11th Street will be opening back up to traffic toward the end of this week.
    • Pedestrian detours will be removed once the ADA sidewalk ramps are opened back up to travel.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week. Refer to the June 2nd weekly report for project status.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs will be finishing up this week.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 9th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted into the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week.

Schedules have been re-evaluated from last week’s update and will start up again as follows.

  • Week of June 16th – ADA work will begin on 35th Street
  • Week of June 30th – A full time closure will begin on 35th Street at Oak Creek Bridge to begin digging and preparations for the waterline boring at the creek. More details on the closure will be provided as we approach this date.
  • Preparations for the railroad crossing will commence following a completed crossing at Oak Creek contingent upon final rail permitting. More detailed information about street closures and detours will be provided for the rail crossings in a few weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks will be ongoing.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause will be for one more week.

Work is expected to begin again on 35th Street the week of June 2nd. Work will begin on the waterline crossing at Oak Creek. A full closure on 35th Street north of Sagebrush and south of Washington Way will be required to complete this work. The closure will be in place 24/7 from June 2nd through June 20th. Updates and details on this closure will be provided with next Friday’s posting. Local access to the few residents and OSU facilities in this closed section will be coordinated. Emergency access through this closure will be evaluated and communicated with Fire and dispatch.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp replacements will continue at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause is still anticipated at 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
    • No sketch this week. All roads will be open as specified.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be starting Monday on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp removal and replacement work at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 12, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

The work on 35th/Western will be taking a pause starting mid-week and will resume once our contractor has their final railroad right of entry permitting in place. Estimated pause is going to be 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Temporary paving of the of the remaining trenches will be occurring early next week at two locations.
    • On Deon Drive at Western Blvd.
    • On Sagebrush Drive at 35th Street.
  • General clean-up and opening of all bike lanes and sidewalks will be occurring prior to the pause.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 12th will include;
    • West Hills Road, Western Blvd. and 35th Street will all be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Sagebrush Drive will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Deon Drive will be in place.
    • Deon Drive, south of Western, will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Ivy Place will be in place.
  • Emergency access will be maintained during trench paving on Sagebrush and on Deon Drive. No impacts to CTS or Beaver Bus is expected.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of May 12, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work on 11th Street is planned for this week; however, work is expected to begin the week of May 19. More detailed information will be provided with next week’s update.

Week of May 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will continue on 35th Street this week.
    • The focus for the week will be to construct the water pipeline on 35th Street, north of Sagebrush Drive, and continue up to the bridge at Oak Creek.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 5th will include;
    • West Hills Road will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western Blvd. will remain open under signal control at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Sagebrush Drive will remain open at 35th Street, south, to Western Blvd.
    • 35th Street north-south travel will remain closed to thru traffic between Western and Washington Way during working hours, and will open back up to normal travel at the end of each work day.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western Blvd. to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison Blvd. to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalks.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd 
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 28, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will be occurring in the 35th/Western intersection and then moving north into 35th Street.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of April 28th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western will remain open under signal control or may be flagged at times at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the  highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd.
    • Detours for the 35th Street closure will be in place during working hours. 35th Street will be opened back up to travel at the end of each working day. Typical work days have been running between 7 am and 4: 30 pm. The contractor has approval to work until 6 pm if needed.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalk. The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will remain closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 21, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Potholing and exploratory work into the intersection of 35th/Western is expected for Thursday and Friday of this week. Our Contractor is preparing to continue with pipeline installation into the intersection and moving north into 35th Street for the week of April 28th.
  • Road dig-outs and repairs will continue on Western Blvd between Ivy Place and the highway Monday thru Wednesday of this week.
  • Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 21st will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Monday thru Wednesday - A road closure and detour on Western Blvd. between Ivy Pl. and Highway 34 will be in place to allow for the continuation of the road dig-outs discussed above.  Westbound traffic on Western will need to use West Hills Rd. to 53rd St., and eastbound traffic will need to use 35th Street from the highway to get back to Western to avoid this specific closure.
    • Thursday thru Friday - The potholing and exploratory work mentioned above will require flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western. We will be adding signage at the entrances to the Western Building off of 35th to help keep these access points clear.
    • Normal traffic flow will be re-established at the end of each work day throughout the project.
    • 35th Street is slated for closure between Western Blvd and Washington Way starting on Monday, April 28th. This will be an extended closure on 35th Street to accommodate the water pipe installation there. More detailed information regarding the 35th Street closure will be provided with the next update, including how work will progress and how local access will be impacted. Emergency vehicle access on 35th Street will be maintained.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed at times and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. As mentioned above, additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Building clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be modified to account for the detours.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service may be modified to account for detours and closures. More to come on this with the next weekly update.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

Week of April 14, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will continue along Western and possibly into the intersection of 35th/Western. Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 14th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions, but may be flagged at times.
    • A lane shift and/or lane closure on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place, and single lane east-west travel will be controlled via flagging.  
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western the signal will be turned off and controlled via flagging. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • This first closure at 35th/Western intersection is coming up the week of April 28th.  More detailed information regarding the intersection closure will be provided in the next update.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. Additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Bld. clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

[Pre-Notice] Week of May 19, 2025 - Start of Construction (11th Street)

  • Our Contractor is planning to mobilize and begin work in mid-May on 11th Street. Work is expected to last through mid-June. Our contractor will clean up the area following their month of prep work, and will return in August for the street paving.
  • The work that occurred this past week with the saw cutting was a pre-cursor of the work to come.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
  • Please notify me if you have any specific needs that I should know about.

The next 11th Street update will be distributed a couple of weeks ahead of the work starting, and then every week while work is active in the area.

Week of April 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will move out of West Hills Rd and into Western Blvd this week.  Installation will approach the intersection of 35th/Western.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 5th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • A lane shift on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place.  East and west travel on Western will be maintained. As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off.  Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • Trenching will be crossing Deon St. entrance from Western (north leg) at some point. There will be no access to Western from Deon (north leg) while pipe is being installed. The contractor will reopen Deon St. as quickly as possible. Pipe installation and backfill associated with this closure at Deon should last a few hours. Access from Sagebrush will remain open. NOTE: Fire will be able to access Deon from Western in an emergency.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

April 3, 2025 – Special Update (35th/Western)

Pacific Excavation will begin water pipeline installation tomorrow, April 3rd. This is work ahead of schedule and will result in the following traffic impacts;

  • West Hills Road will be closed  between Hanson Street and Western Boulevard for a couple of days for the start of pipe installation.
  • A detour for traffic on West Hills Road will be in place as follows;
    • Eastbound traffic on West Hills road will need to use 53rd Street to Highway 34, and then either Western/35th/26th/15th to get back to Western Boulevard.
    • Westbound traffic on Western Blvd will need to continue on Western Blvd to Highway 34 to 53 Street and then back onto West Hills Rd.
    • Bike and pedestrian travel will still be permitted on West Hills Road. Follow the signing for this.
    • School Bus and Fire access will be maintained on West Hills Road. Our contractor will make the necessary accommodations to keep this area accessible to those needs.
  • Once construction has moved beyond this intersection of West Hills Road and Western Blvd, the detour will no longer be in place.

Week of March 24, 2025 – Start of Construction (35th/Western)

  • Work will be occurring on Western Blvd and West Hills Road, between 35th Street and Hanson Street.
  • Contractor will begin mobilization on Monday, March 24th.
  • Work likely will include surveying, saw cutting, and potholing in preparation for waterline installation.
  • Waterline pipe installation in Western and West Hills is tentatively scheduled to begin the week of March 31st, and will start at Hanson and work easterly toward 35th Street.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of March 24th will include;
    • A lane shift on Western. East and west travel on Western and on West Hills will be maintained. We plan to restore all lanes of travel on Western and West Hills by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, the intersection will change to a single lane of travel in each direction. Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
What is a TSAP?

A TSAP is a document that reviews transportation-related crashes involving vehicles, pedestrians, or bicycles to find trends and identify strategies to reduce crashes throughout a city. TSAPs are comprehensive safety plans aimed at reducing and eliminating serious injury and fatal crashes, and use data analysis to characterize roadway safety problems and strengthen a community’s approach through projects and strategies that address the most significant safety risks.

The TSAP developed through this process will serve as a foundation for future transportation safety projects and initiatives, helping the City of Corvallis identify priorities and secure funding to implement solutions over time. It is important to understand that the benefits of the plan will be realized incrementally, and the planning process itself is a critical step. While the adoption of the TSAP is a milestone, it is not an endpoint; successful implementation will depend on available funding and prioritizing efforts to address the most critical safety needs first.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
What is slurry seal?

Slurry seal is a petroleum-based emulsion product mixed with fine aggregate rock to provide a new surface to an existing asphalt street. It slows down aging and significantly reduces vehicle road noise. 

Using slurry in conjunction with a crack seal program provides the most cost-effective method to prevent premature aging. First, sealant is applied to any cracks in the street to prevent water from entering the sub-base and causing further deterioration. Then a layer of slurry is applied. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
What vehicle movements are being restricted at Tyler Avenue and 2nd Street?

All left turns will be prohibited as well as straight through movement on Tyler Avenue. Vehicles will still have the ability to make right turns into, and from, Tyler Avenue.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

Category: Traffic Circles
Why is ODOT providing the speed zone investigation? Does the City have any control?

Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Will a shared e-scooter or bikeshare program be coming to Corvallis?

Oregon State University launched a one-year Shared Micromobility Pilot Project in August 2024. Current City Municipal Code prohibits shared micromobility to be parked in the public right-of-way, including on the sidewalk, in the street, or in a park strip (the space between the street and the sidewalk). Shared micromobility is allowed to travel on City streets, within the service boundary, and to be parked in designated areas on private property.

If you see a shared scooter or bicycle that is parked in the public right-of-way, please report it to hello@veoride.com. Please include the location, vehicle ID number and mention OSU in your email.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I adopt a segment of path that is not identified on the map?

If it is a city-owned paved path, we’ll consider requests. However, if the path is maintained by ODOT, Benton County or a private entity, it is beyond the scope of the City’s program. The City also has an Adopt-A-Park Program facilitated by the Parks & Recreation department that includes unpaved trails. For information about that program, visit: https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/parksrec/page/parks-recreation-volunteer...

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Do I need a license or insurance to operate an e-micromobility device?

No insurance, license or registration is required.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Do the search results include the contents of PDFs and other documents?

Yes.  The website indexes web pages as well as PDFs, Microsoft Office documents, and text documents.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
How large of a bike will fit in the cargo bike locker stalls?

Four of the locker stalls will fit a bicycle up to 87” in length. The locker doors are 45” tall and 30.75” wide.

Category: Bike Lockers
Is it safe?

When the slurry is dry, it is safe. When it is first applied, the slurry is in a liquid form consisting of asphalt and rock. Because liquid asphalt is potentially hazardous to health and is very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings, please keep children from playing near the street until the slurry material dries. Pets should be kept from running free during the slurry application for their safety. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Registering to Vote

To be a registered voter, you must be 18 years of age on the date of the next election, a resident of the State of Oregon (and the City of Corvallis for local measures and candidates), and a citizen of the United States.

If you have not been registered to vote previously in the State, you must file 20 days prior to the next election date. If you have voted previously within the state, you need to check with Benton County Elections and you may be eligible to vote immediately. All prospective voters register with Benton County.

Category: Elections
What is a Home Energy Score?

A Home Energy Score is a report created by a certified home energy assessor that provides information on estimated home energy use, associated costs, and provides options to cost-effectively improve your home’s energy efficiency. Each Home Energy Score is shown on a simple one-to-ten scale, where a ten represents the most efficient homes. See a sample Home Energy Score report here. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Provider?

A person who furnishes temporary overnight lodging is considered a lodging provider. Lodging facilities includes any hotel, motel, inn, condominium, house, cabin, apartment, public or private dormitory, fraternity, sorority, public or private club, space in a mobile home or trailer park, tent camping locations, or similar structures or spaces or portions thereof so occupied; provided such occupancy is for less than a 30-day period.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the Rental Housing Fee?

The Rental Housing Fee was created in 1999 in response to the increasing number of rentals in Corvallis. The fee is used is to improve housing standards through education and assistance.  The objectives  are to: (1) Assist community members in finding the rental related resources; (2) Educate through partnerships and outreach, to increase knowledge about fair housing regulations, Landlord / Tenant law, and the Corvallis Livability; (3) Inform by collecting data to improve the City’s understanding of local rental housing trends.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What makes this traffic circle different than the circle that was removed at 10th Street and Grant Avenue years ago?

10th Street and Grant Avenue are both classified as collector streets with marked vehicle, bike, and parking lanes. Collector streets have higher volumes of vehicles traveling through the intersection compared to the intersection of two local streets, such as 11th Street and Tyler Avenue. This intersection, compared to 10th Street and Grant Avenue, shows roughly 1/6th the amount of vehicle throughput, making a traffic circle an appropriate treatment. Neighborhood traffic circles already exist within our community where two local streets intersect, such as at 11th Street and C Avenue.

Category: Traffic Circles
What speeds are changing?

The speed zone investigation for Circle Boulevard was conducted by ODOT between Kings Boulevard and Harrison Boulevard. Based on the outcome of the investigation, ODOT is requiring several changes to speed limits along this corridor. The existing and new speed limits for this portion of Circle are:

 

Segment

Existing Speed Posting

New Speed Posting

Kings to Lantana

25 / 30 MPH

25 MPH

Lantana to Dale

25 MPH

30 MPH

Dale to Harrison

25 MPH

35 MPH

 

A copy of the ODOT’s Speed Zone Order and Speed Investigation Report can be reviewed by clicking on the links provided. To reiterate, public input is not considered under the law as part of speed investigations and does not affect their outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Where are the bike racks located?

The bike racks are located on the north side of the Public Works compound, at 1245 NE 3rd St.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where can I dispose of unused, unwanted, and/or expired medication?

To find nearby locations visit one of the following websites:

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office also organizes an event every April. Click below for more info. 

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Why are vehicle movements at 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue being restricted?

Tyler Avenue is designated as a Neighborhood Bikeway and is currently being constructed. The intersection of 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue is difficult to cross for people walking and biking due to the street often being used as a cut through for vehicles traveling through town. The installation of a median island will reduce cut through traffic and vehicle volumes on residential streets, as well as provide a safe space for people walking and biking to stop midway through the intersection. It will also reduce conflicts between turning vehicles, creating a safer intersection for all.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why are we using ranked choice voting?

After Benton County’s successful use of ranked choice voting, in 2022 the City adopted the ranked choice voting method for elections for Mayor and City Council races with three or more candidates and for advisory questions.

 

 

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What properties are required to register?

All residential rental properties are required to register. A residential rental property is considered a property with one or more dwelling units that generates rental income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I register and update my rental property information with the City?

Visit www.corvallisoregon.gov/RHPupdate to register or update your rental property information or to request a Section 8 fee waiver. Please note: Failure to register a rental property can result in up to a $1000 fine per rental unit.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Can I reserve a locker in advance or check online for availability?

A reservation feature is not currently available, but you can view the map on the Movatic App to see continually refreshed openings.

Category: Bike Lockers
Can the City prevent changes in the posted speed limit?

The City does not have the ability to change the outcome of the speed zone investigation. ODOT conducted the study per the requirements of state law which considers actual measured speeds when establishing posted speeds. However, in conjunction with ODOT performing the investigation, the City reviewed existing signs and striping on this corridor. The City is planning to implement several changes to coincide with the new speed limit signage in order to mitigate some of the concerns surrounding changes to posted speeds. When the City installs the new speed limit signs, we will also provide the following enhancements:

  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Lantana Drive.
  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Duniway Drive.
  • A new marked crosswalk and pedestrian crossing signs at Dale Drive.
  • New advisory speed signs added to the existing speed bump signage. Advisory speed signs will inform drivers that a speed lower than the legal limit is recommended as vehicles approach the bumps.
  • A new radar speed feedback sign addressing northbound traffic as it transitions from the 35 MPH to the 30 MPH posted speed south of Witham Hill Drive
Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Does my medication need to be in its original container?

No. It can be in a sealed bag.

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I mark my ballot with ranked choice voting?

Voters mark their ballots in order of preference – 1st choice, 2nd choice, 3rd choice.

  • Use blue or black pen.
  • Fill in the ovals next to the candidates of your choice.
  • Make only one choice per column.
  • Do not skip columns.
  • You may rank as few candidates as you would like.
  • You may rank up to three candidates.

Voting instructions from Benton County.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How is a Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) different from a Transportation System Plan (TSP)?

A Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) and a Transportation System Plan (TSP) work together to improve how people get around safely and efficiently. The TSP sets broad safety priorities within the context of the overall transportation system—like roads, sidewalks, and bike paths—planning for growth and future needs. The TSAP builds on these priorities by diving deeper into safety issues, using data-driven methods and different metrics to identify safety problems and recommend targeted solutions. By focusing on crash prevention and reducing serious injuries or fatalities, the TSAP complements the TSP to ensure a comprehensive approach to transportation safety. Together, they create a safer and more effective system for everyone.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
If I search for a phrase (e.g. alarm permit), will the results only show exact matches?

No.  By default, the search results will show matches for any word within the phrase.  In this example, you would receive results for all web pages and documents that contained either the word alarm or the word permit or both.

In order to search on an exact phrase, enclose your search phrase in quotations.  The search results for "alarm permit" will show matches for that exact phrase.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Initiative and Referendum Information

The initiative process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 15% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is generally initiated by citizens. Examples include the measure to allow smoking in bars, the recall of an elected City official or a Charter amendment.

The referendum process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 10% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is used to refer legislation adopted by the governing body to a direct vote. Corvallis City Charter, Chapter 6, Section 32  

Initiatives and referenda are only permitted in May and November elections. House Bill 2957, passed at the 2015 Regular Session

Category: Elections
Is there a Rental Housing fee?

Yes. An annual fee is assessed for each rental unit based on Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065. The fee increases by one dollar every odd year. Property owners who receive partial or full payment through a Section 8 voucher may request a fee waiver.

The fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What are the benefits of a Home Energy Score?

A home energy score is an informational tool that provides potential home buyers with knowledge about how energy efficient a home is. Unlike getting a sample utility bill for that home, which measures individual behavior as much as efficiency, a home energy score more accurately represents how much energy will be lost or retained when a resident heats or cools the home.  There is also research that suggests that mandatory energy usage disclosure policies incentivize homeowners to invest in energy efficiency upgrades in their homes. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Intermediary?

A lodging intermediary is a person, other than a provider, that facilitates the retail sale and charges for the occupancy of short term lodging. Lodging intermediaries include, but are not limited to, online travel companies, travel agents, and tour outfitter companies (such as Airbnb or Expedia). 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the purpose of a traffic circle?

Traffic circles are effective at reducing crashes at intersections because there are fewer conflict points. They also reduce speeds at the intersection and multiple traffic circles can help reduce speeds along an entire corridor.

Category: Traffic Circles
What Lodging Intermediaries are registered with the City?
  • AIRBNB, INC
  • EGENCIA, LLC
  • FERNWOOD CIRCLE
  • HOTEL TONIGHT
  • HOTELS.COM, LP
  • HOTWIRE, INC
  • NAT COR HOUSING
  • ORBITZ, LLC
  • PRICELINE.COM
  • TRAVELSCAPE, LLC
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
When can I pickup/return the racks?

The Public Works compound is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Borrowers can pick up and return racks only during open hours.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where and when can I pick up equipment?

Equipment can be picked up from the Public Works admin office, at 1245 NE 3rd St, Monday - Friday, between 8 am and 5 pm. Pickup should be arranged ahead of time with the Program Coordinator.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Who is required to get a Home Energy Score?

As currently proposed, if your home is within the Corvallis city limits and you are publicly listing or advertising your home for sale in any manner, you will need to get a Home Energy Score and Report before listing it. Common ways people advertise a home for sale include online listings, posters, yard signs and ads in print publications. Some homeowners are exempted from getting a Home Energy Score. Please see below for examples of exemptions. 

If you are selling your home privately between two parties and the home is never publicly advertised for sale, then the requirements do NOT apply.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for paying the lodging tax?

For the privilege of occupancy in any lodging, the occupant shall pay the Lodging Tax.

The Lodging Tax Collector shall remit the Lodging Tax for the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and State of Oregon to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will access to my street be affected?

During the slurry seal application, access to your street will be interrupted for a maximum of ten (10) hours — for one day only — unless the contractor is delayed due to equipment failure or rainy conditions. You may not park or drive on the street from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The post office, garbage service, and 911 emergency dispatch will be notified before work begins. We do not expect any interruption of mail delivery, garbage collection or emergency services. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will there be any impacts to parking?

One parking stall will be removed at the southwest corner of 4th Street and Harrison Boulevard. This vehicle space is part of a realignment of the street with the removal of the concrete bulb out and trees, providing a straight path for automobiles traveling along Harrison Boulevard. No other parking along Harrison Boulevard will be affected. Work on Tyler Avenue is limited to the corners of the intersections, where parking is already prohibited.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Is the Rental Housing Program fee pro-rated?

The RHP fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full RHP fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Are the existing speed bumps being removed?

No. The existing speed bumps will remain in place and advisory speed signs will be added informing drivers that a lower speed is recommended around speed bumps compared to the new overall posted speed.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Are there any incentive programs for buying an e-micromobility device?

There are currently no incentives available for electric mobility devices open in Corvallis/Benton County. However, there are funds available for other neighboring communities and states. Keep apprised of the revolving door of funding by finding a website that tracks this information. We like this one from RideReview. 

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I exclude a word from a search (e.g. all pages that have the word "alarm" but not the word "permit"?

Yes.   You can exclude words by using the minus sign (-).   In order to find the results of all pages that have alarm in the result but not permit, you would search for alarm -permit.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Does my vote still count if I rank only one or only two candidates?

Yes, your vote will still count if you rank only one or only two candidates. However, your ballot has more power if you rank all three choices. If you choose not to, your ranked vote may not be counted in later rounds if your top candidate(s) are eliminated and the lower choice position(s) are left blank.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I dispose of medicine discretely?

You may mark out your name or any other identifiable information

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I transport the racks by bike?

Step 1: Place one of the base racks with a coupler onto the bike trailer, making sure that the rack is centered. Stack up to 3 additional racks (without couplers) on top.

Step 2: Affix the hitch to a rear bike rack. The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team can provide hitches upon request.

Step 3: Attach the coupler to the hitch.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a bicycle or motor vehicle?
  1. Slow your speed as you approach the intersection. 15mph is ideal.
  2. Stop in advance of the sidewalk if pedestrians are crossing.
  3. Yield to vehicles that arrive first at the intersection.
    Yield to vehicles on the right if arriving at the same time.
  4. Keep to the right and travel around the traffic circle in a counterclockwise direction.

Traffic circle navigation

Category: Traffic Circles
Political Action Committees

Political Action Committees (PACs) are formed for both candidates and measures; they can be either in support of or opposition to the candidate or measure. PACs must be formed and registered with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division before any contributions are accepted or monies expended.  Once the election is over and all monies are accounted for, PACs should be discontinued. Please visit the Secretary of State Political Action Committee page for more information.

Category: Elections
What can I do to reduce my exposure to PFAS? 

Small changes can reduce you and your family’s exposure to PFAS chemicals. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to PFAS, but there are ways to limit it. For example: avoid re-heating foods in fast food packaging and take-out containers; look for take-out food packaging that is certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI); replace non-stick cookware with alternatives that don’t contain PFAS; look for “PFAS-Free” when buying waterproof or stain-resistant items, and dental floss, cosmetics, or other personal care products; and choose household cleaning product with EPA Safer Choice, UL Eco-Logo, or Green Seal labels. 

Category: PFAS
What equipment is available for checkout?
  • Reflective vest (10)
  • Trash grabbers (11)
  • Work gloves (5)
  • Limb loppers (3)
  • Pruners (2)
  • Rakes (2)
  • Shovel (1)
  • Standard Broom (1)
  • Push Broom (1)
Category: Adopt-A-Path
What items can I leave in a bike locker?

In addition to your bike, you can store gear like a helmet, bags, bike tools, bike clothing and shoes. 

Category: Bike Lockers
What rental units are subject to the RHP annual fee?

Any residential rental unit within Corvallis city limits is subject to the fee. There are two exemptions, a landlord may request a fee waiver if they accept Section 8 (staff confirms this before the fee is waived) or if the rental unit has a deed restriction that requires the unit to be rented to low income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What would a Home Energy Score Ordinance mean for homeowners in Corvallis?

A Home Energy Score Ordinance would require homeowners to get a home energy score from a certified home energy assessor before selling their home, if the home is going to be publicly advertised for sale.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for collecting the lodging tax?

Transient lodging providers and transient lodging intermediaries must collect and remit the tax. Under the law, whoever collects payment for occupancy is responsible for collecting and remitting the tax as the Lodging Tax Collector.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water will damage both the appearance and sealing capabilities of the slurry. Please refrain from watering lawns, washing cars, or engaging in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day your street is slurry-sealed.

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will street trees be removed as part of this project?

Yes. A total of 13 existing street trees will be removed along the north side of Harrison and corners of 3rd and 4th streets. All other trees within the project limit will be protected. The City of Corvallis has collaborated with the ODOT project team, and landscape architect, to mitigate the removal of the trees with project landscaping and tree replacement with 13, Red Rage Tupelo trees. 

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Are there any prohibited medicines?

Yes. These items are prohibited:

  • No sharps
  • No illicit drugs
  • No herbal remedies
  • No vitamins or supplements
  • No personal care products
  • No medical devices
  • No batteries
  • No mercury-containing thermometers
  • No pet pesticide products
  • No animal medicines
  • No biologics
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Campaign Finance

Political Action Committees (PACs) file contribution and expense reports with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division on an established schedule. 

If candidates act as their own Treasurers and expect to spend or receive less than $750 during the entire calendar year, reports do not need to be filed. If candidates subsequently exceed that amount, reports do need to be filed.

Please visit the Secretary of State Campaign Finance page and review the Campaign Finance Quick Guide for instructions and a schedule of filing deadlines.

Category: Elections
Does my vote count if I vote for the same candidate three times?

Yes, your vote will still count, but it will not help your candidate's chances of winning. If a single candidate is selected for all three choices, it will be tallied as if you only ranked a first-choice candidate.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How far off of the path am I responsible for?

You are responsible for cleaning up the 3 feet adjacent to the path. No trespassing on private property is allowed.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
How is the TSAP funded?

The TSAP is primarily funded through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) federal grant program, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Corvallis was awarded $664,000 for this initiative with the City contributing a required match of $110,000 plus $56,000 in in-kind support. This will build off of the strong foundation set in the 2019 TSP planning effort. This alignment with past planning efforts creates a unique opportunity for Corvallis to fill existing safety related gaps and advance the City’s transportation safety objectives through a data-driven, equity-oriented approach.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a pedestrian?
  • Watch for incoming vehicles.
  • Wait until traffic yields to you when crossing.
  • Do not cross to the middle of the circle.
Category: Traffic Circles
What are the dimensions of the racks?

Length: 10’, Width: 44”, Height: 36”

Weight: 65 pounds

A minimum of 4 feet of space between the racks is recommended for comfortable maneuvering of bicycles.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
What can I do to reduce my exposure to phthalates?

Small changes at home can reduce your exposure to phthalates. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to phthalates, but you can try to reduce it. For example: microwave and store foods and liquids in glass containers. Avoid plastic food containers and plastic wrap with the Recycling Label #3 on it. Steer clear of the words “fragrance,” “perfume,” or “parfum” in their ingredients. Seek out phthalate-free cosmetics found in the Skin Deep® product clearinghouse. Look for products with EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, and Eco Logo certification labels that are phthalate-free. These are safer choices!

Category: PFAS
What happens if I exceed the maximum rental time on the locker?

If you exceed the maximum rental time of 7 days, the rental automatically ends and the door is locked (with everything inside). In order to retrieve your bike and any items in the locker, you will need to contact us.

Category: Bike Lockers
What if my home gets a low score?

That's fine. A Home Energy Score is simply an informational tool for property owners. There is no "passing" or "failing" a home energy score and there are no requirements that go along with a score. Your report will show you or any future property owners where there are opportunities for increased energy efficiency. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is the definition of a "rental unit"?

The term “unit” is the equivalent to the number of individual leases held by a tenant or tenants. For example, if a five bedroom house is rented on a single agreement, it is one unit. If the same house is rented on 5 separate agreements, it is five units.  

Category: Rental Housing Program
What is the expected completion date?

The project will go through summer 2025.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
When will the new speed zone signage and enhancements be installed?

The work will be completed later this year as weather and staffing allow.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What else can you do?
  • Only buy enough medication that you can use before it expires.
  • If you know a friend who uses the same over-the-counter medication, consider combining purchases.
  • Ask your pharmacist if the drugs will become dangerous after expiration. Some drugs lose some potency, but can still provide some benefits.
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Can I give multiple candidates the same ranking?

No. If multiple candidates are chosen for the same ranking, the voter’s intent cannot be determined, and the ballot will not be considered.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Can I rent a locker without a smartphone?

Unfortunately, there is no way to rent a locker without a smartphone.

Category: Bike Lockers
City of Corvallis Campaign Sign Regulations

Political signs shall be erected and maintained entirely on private property with the consent of the occupant of the premises.

No signs are permitted on public property, including rights-of-way, streets, boulevards, bridges, rights-of-way to bridges and streets, medians, parks, planting strips in front of parks, and any other public property.

The area between the sidewalk and the street is not private property; it is a public right-of-way and signs are not allowed.

Political signs shall not be erected prior to 60 days from the applicable election and shall be removed within 15 days after the election.

Corvallis Land Development Code Sections 4.7.50 and 4.7.70

Category: Elections
How do I learn if racial restrictive covenants appear in my property's deed and CCRs?

The documents you signed when you purchased your home will include the deed and CCRs. A close review of these documents will reveal whether racial restrictive covenants were applied to your property. Note that the restrictions are often embedded and may be limited to a single sentence or short paragraph.  

If you are not able to locate the documents, you can obtain a copy of the deed from the Benton County Records & Election Department or by contacting a title company. A fee may apply.

Benton County Records & Election Department

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
How do I signal at a traffic circle?

A traffic circle is similar to an intersection with signals in which you need to signal the direction in which you are going to take. When turning right, you need to signal right, when going straight you do not signal, and when turning left or doing a U-turn you signal left. Whenever you exit a traffic circle you need to signal right to show you are exiting. Cyclists should use hand signals.

Category: Traffic Circles
If my home receives a low score, will it be harder to sell?

Low Home Energy Scores won't necessarily impact your ability to sell your home. Energy performance is just one of many factors people consider when buying a home. The information from a score helps both a seller and buyer understand the opportunities to improve energy efficiency and lower utility costs. It also allows potential buyers to understand how much monthly utility costs will be.

Category: Home Energy Score
Only 6 PFAS are required to be tested in drinking water according to the EPA. What about the others?

It should be noted that testing for PFAS compounds is currently limited. The City is testing for 29 PFAS compounds, including the six  compounds that the EPA is going to be regulating in drinking water.  The City is monitoring advancements in laboratory capabilities and will expand its PFAS compound testing as the industry shifts with improved analysis methodologies over time.

Category: PFAS
What about future speed zone investigations?

The City of Corvallis has been awarded a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant from the State of Oregon.  In addition to developing a transportation safety action plan, this funding will be used to produce a speed limit investigation framework.  This framework will include guidance and criteria that will be used by the City to guide future requests to ODOT for speed zone investigations.  One likely candidate is the Circle Boulevard corridor extending east of Kings where it is anticipated that a study may result in a reduction in the posted speed limit consistent with the reduction being implemented west of Kings.   

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What do I do with the trash that is collected?

If it is a large amount of trash, you can arrange a pickup by City staff and place the bagged trash by the side of the path at a designated location. Otherwise, please bring the trash bags back to Public Works at the time of your equipment return.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
What is the amount of the tax?

In the City of Corvallis, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 9 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.

In Benton County, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 3 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.  For Benton County, there is an administrative fee reimbursement of 5 percent of the tax due.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the mechanism that allows the City to charge a fee for rental properties?

The Rental Housing fee is established in Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065.  The code states the annual fee will increase by $1 every odd numbered year. 

Category: Rental Housing Program
Does anyone qualify for an exemption from a Home Energy Score requirement?

As currently proposed, under some circumstances, a homeowner may qualify for an exemption from the Home Energy Score requirement. As a reminder, the Corvallis Home Energy Score ordinance is still a draft and has not been finalized. The following are examples of exemptions in the proposed ordinance. This may not be the full or final list. Some exemptions may be applicable for properties sold under the following circumstances:

  • Transfer of title due to inheritance
  • Involuntary transfer of title resulting from default on an obligation secured by real property 
  • Title change due to marriage or divorce
  • Condemnation of the property
  • Other involuntary changes of title 
  • Certain situations of undue hardship for the seller
Category: Home Energy Score
How do I appeal my RHP late penalty fee?

Residential rental properties within the City of Corvallis are assessed an annual Rental Housing fee. The fee is assessed on a per unit basis. Account balances that become 91 days old and 61 days past due are considered delinquent and are assessed a penalty fee of $100 per unit.

A property owner may appeal the penalty fee. Appeals are considered on a case-by-case basis. To appeal the penalty fee, please follow the directions below:

  • If your total statement is $400 or less, contact the City Finance Department by phone (541-766-6990) or by email.
  • If your total statement is $401 or more, submit your request to Housing and Neighborhood Services (HNS) Division here. A

  

 

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I vote for a write-in candidate?

You may use the Write-In space to enter a candidate’s name that is not on the ballot and fill in an oval to rank your choice.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How often does the City of Corvallis test for PFAS?

Water systems have five years to comply with the EPA rule (see EPA Rule FAQ). The City of Corvallis does the following:  

  • Drinking water: The City of Corvallis did voluntary PFAS and phthalates testing in drinking water twice in 2023 and will continue to test twice a year in 2024. PFAS and phthalates have not been detected in Corvallis drinking water. The official PFAS and phthalates tests required by the EPA will occur sometime in the Fall of 2024.

 

  • Wastewater: The City tested wastewater for PFAS and phthalates four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024. The City also tested biosolids from the wastewater treatment plant four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024, to further investigate sources and levels PFAS.
Category: PFAS
What charges and fees are taxable?

Gross lodging receipts are all amounts received, including all non-optional fees, other than taxes that are paid for lodging in Oregon. Rent includes all fees and assessments based on the number of occupants, human and pets (including but not limited to cleaning, pet, or smoking fees) for which payment is not optional to the occupant. If the operator offers a lodging package that includes something that is not associated with the actual lodging or is provided by a third party, the rent is the price of the package less the cost of the non-lodging portion of the package.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What happens if an emergency vehicle comes through the traffic circle?

Do not stop inside the traffic circle. If you have not yet entered the traffic circle, pull to the right and let the emergency vehicles pass you. If you are in the traffic circle, exit as normal, then pull to the right and let the emergency vehicle pass you.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the process to remove discriminatory restrictions?

The laws passed in 2018 aim to ease the removal of discriminatory restrictions from property records.  Requests are submitted to the State's area Circuit Court using the procedure detailed in ORS 93.274. Efforts are underway to refine this process and our website will be updated as information becomes available. Please note this is not a City process. All inquiries should be directed to the Benton County Circuit Court.

Benton County Circuit Court

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
Are all cleaning fees taxable?

It depends on the nature of the charge. If the fee is non-refundable, it is part of what the guest pays for occupancy and is therefore subject to Lodging Tax. Conversely, if the cleaning fee is fully refundable or withheld only for specific damages, it is not subject to Lodging Tax..

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I slow traffic in my neighborhood?

It Starts with You

  • Set the pace! Drive the speed limit. A National Highway Safety Council survey found 70% of drivers acknowledge they speed themselves.
  • Utilize on-street parking. A narrow street can slow traffic. However, when possible please also be mindful of moving your vehicle on scheduled street sweeping days for your area. Learn more about sweeping here.
  • If you have a neighborhood or homeowner’s association (HOA) ask them to include slow speed reminders in your neighborhood newsletters.
  • Allow more time for travel. Accidents happen at any speed, but injuries and damage are more significant at speeds over 25 mph.
  • Directed Patrol for targeted enforcement may be requested from Police here. However, please keep in mind that the ability for Police to respond is dependent on staffing and many other competing needs to keep the community safe. 

Signs and enforcement can only do so much to influence driver behavior. The most effective speed control is a safety conscious culture.

 

Category: Traffic Engineering
I can't afford to pay for an inspection. What do I do?

The City does not want to place undue financial hardship on lower income homeowners. Addressing this is a top priority for staff and Council. City staff is exploring ways to assist lower income home owners obtain a Home Energy Score. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I make a mistake?

If you make a mistake in marking your ballot, place an X over the mismarked oval and fill in the oval of your preferred choice and circle that oval.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What is the new EPA rule?

The new EPA rule—the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR)--establishes   legally enforceable levels for six PFAS known to occur individually and/or as mixtures in drinking water. EPA will regulate five PFAS as individually. They are PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA. EPA will regulate four PFAS as a mixture: PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS. PFAS can often be found together and in varying combinations as mixtures. Decades of research show mixtures of different chemicals can have additive health effects, even if the individual chemicals are each present at lower levels. With this rule, EPA has set limits for these chemicals individually and/or as mixtures. See the following FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information.

Category: PFAS
Will a large truck fit?

Yes, the apron of the traffic circle is built with a height so that it can be driven over if need be. It should be done very slowly to prevent damage to the vehicle.

Category: Traffic Circles
How can the speed limit be changed on a street?

In Oregon, speed limits are set by and changed through specific procedures defined in state laws and regulations. The primary consideration of this process is the measured speeds of drivers on the street currently. This means that sometimes if a street is studied, the process may actually result in a higher speed limit being posted. The City may occasionally request review of speed limits through the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), however the process can take upwards of six months or more for a determination on whether or not any speed changes may occur. Information about the speed setting process in Oregon is available here.

Recent changes in state law now allow some cities in Oregon to complete speed studies themselves, subject to State oversight. However, the same statewide rules and regulations must be followed. Due to staff workloads and the time-consuming nature of speed studies, this is not something Corvallis plans to take on in the near future and will therefore continue to work with ODOT when considering speed limit evaluations.

At this time, before forwarding a request for a speed study to ODOT or not, the City considers the context of the street, recent speed data if available, changes to the street that may have an effect on speeds, law enforcement support, and the likelihood of the speed changing through the study process.

Category: Traffic Engineering
I am planning on selling my home soon. If the ordinance passes, what will I need to do?

If the Home Energy Score passes, it will likely not go into effect until early 2023. In the meantime, the City will work with our partners at Earth Advantage to train home energy assessors in the Corvallis area. If you are planning on selling your home after the ordinance goes into effect, you would need to schedule an appointment with a home energy assessor to obtain a home energy score report. Once that is done, you will need to provide that report to any listing agent or service you use to advertise your home. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I damage or lose my ballot?

Contact the Benton County Elections Office for a replacement ballot.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I request traffic calming such as speed bumps or radar speed feedback signs?

The City has adopted a policy and procedure for considering requests for neighborhood traffic calming. You can read more about the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP) here. Requests are only considered for local, residential streets, as traffic calming through the NTCP is not allowed on arterial and collector streets to minimize disruptions to emergency services and transit routes. While there may be past traffic calming that was installed on some of these main streets, new installations are not allowed.

The neighborhood traffic calming program and procedures require broad support from the residents along the subject street and any improvements must be paid for by the adjacent properties. Currently, the City does not have a budget for installing traffic calming on streets by request without neighborhood financial support.

Permanent radar speed feedback sign installations have been used in Corvallis at a small amount of locations, typically at or near school speed zones thanks to special funding from the State or school district. Additional radar speed feedback signs may be installed on arterial and collector streets where speed limits drop, mostly when entering into the City. These devices can have significant ongoing maintenance needs and be costly to replace if struck, vandalized, or they fail. The Police Department has a small amount of portable speed radar feedback signs, however their ability move these around frequently and widely in response to traffic concerns is limited due to staffing and upkeep.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How will my ballot be counted?

The Benton County Election Office will tally ballots in accordance with the County and City’s ranked choice voting rules for implementation. A detailed description of the tallying process can be found on the Benton County’s Benton Better Ballot site.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Is this another government fee or tax on Corvallis property owners?

No. The fee collected by the home energy assessor goes directly to the assessor, with the exception of a $35 flat fee that goes to Earth Advantage to support assessor training, marketing, and administration of Home Energy Score policies across the state.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about snow or general debris removal?

Generally, there are no problems with snow or debris removal in traffic circle.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the City of Corvallis doing to address PFAS and phthalate in wastewater and biosolids?

The City is looking at different sources of PFAS in wastewater, including our industrial customers. The City is also working with biosolids researchers at OSU and professional groups in the Northwest and is engaged in regional and statewide efforts to increase knowledge about PFAS risks and how to minimize those risks. The City is also sharing information about PFAS so the public can make educated choices.

Category: PFAS
What lodging facilities are exempt from the tax?
  • Health care facilities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and residential care facilities that are licensed, registered, or certified by Oregon Department of Human Services.
  • Drug or alcohol abuse treatment facilities and mental health treatment facilities.
  • Facilities with less than 30 days of rentals in a calendar year.  The exemption granted under this subsection does not apply to a dwelling unit that is rented out as a lodging using a lodging intermediary platform of any kind.    
  • Any Facility whose rent is collected for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter, with a voucher bearing the seal of the City of Corvallis, issued by a tax-exempt, non-profit charitable organization, as defined by the Oregon Department of revenue.  
  • Nonprofit youth or church camps, nonprofit conference centers, and qualifying nonprofit facilities.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business.
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
  • Non-profit charitable organizations for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter.  See the City of Corvallis code 8.04.050.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I get a certain sign, pavement markings like a crosswalk, or flashing beacon for crossing installed?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Many transportation-related items reported to the City come in the form of a suggested or requested treatment. Staff will investigate and determine if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed and if the suggested or requested treatment is appropriate. If staff does find an issue, and believes it may warrant addressing, we may agree with the treatment proposed (if there was one) or choose a different one utilizing our best judgment. Issues needing to be addressed will have to compete with existing priorities, including staff time and budget. We have a limited range of tools within our annual budget. Examples of more easy improvements to implement include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. However, please know that if the reported issue or request would require installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have this type of un-budgeted funding readily available. These kinds of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval. You can learn more about the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) here.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How do I determine if my short-term guest is exempt from the LRT?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
Category: Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
So why is the City interested in a Home Energy Score ordinance?

As part of its commitment to mitigating climate change and curbing emissions, the City sees this as an opportunity for community members to better understand their energy usage and to increase energy efficiency in the built environment in our community. The implementation of a home energy performance rating is an objective in both the City's Climate Action Plan (page 12), adopted in 2016, and the City's 2022-2026 Strategic Operational Plan (page 13). If the ordinance passes, Corvallis would be the fourth municipality in Oregon to require a Home Energy Score, following Portland, Milwaukie, and Hillsboro. 

Category: Home Energy Score
I still have questions about this proposed policy.

That's understandable! Please contact Kathryn Duvall at (541) 766-6423 or kathryn.duvall@corvallisoregon.gov.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about home water filtration? Does that remove PFAS?

PFAS have NOT been detected in Corvallis drinking water. According to the EPA, a home filter could be an effective way to reduce PFAS levels (EPA filter factsheet). Many water pitcher filters and other home-based water filters are able to reduce the levels of PFAS in drinking water. If you decide to use a filter, look for ones that are certified to reduce PFAS. Be aware that current filters on the market will not yet be certified to reduce PFAS to the new EPA standard, but the added filtration they provide can help reduce your exposure. It's important to note that the current certification standards for PFAS filters (as of April 2024) do not yet indicate that a filter will remove PFAS down to the levels EPA has now set for a drinking water standard.

 

Category: PFAS
When is lodging tax due?

Lodging Tax Collectors must submit a Lodging Tax Return Form and related payment no later than the last day of the month following the end of the tax period. 

The City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes should all be filed with the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Due dates for filing returns and making payments
Period (quarter) Period end date Due date
Jan-Feb-Mar March 31 April 30
Apr-May-Jun June 30 July 31
July-Aug-Sep September 30 October 31
Oct-Nov-Dec December 31 January 31
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will the railroad crossing on 11th Street be upgraded to concrete similar to the crossing at Adams?

When we analyze a span of road to implement a Neighborhood Bikeway, we look carefully at every element. Railroad crossings are no exception. We are aware that the condition of these crossings can pose a challenge for some street users. Although improvements may appear straightforward on the surface, crossings are actually located within railroad-owned land and require complex coordination, negotiation, approval, and agreements with the railroad and the State who regulates rail crossings. This makes the process very difficult, time consuming and quite expensive. So expensive, in fact, that the cost of crossing improvements alone can quickly surpass the budget for the entire project.

Due to the complexity of parties involved, high costs, and the desire to still advance other beneficial elements of the Neighborhood Bikeway network, we have elected to remove railroad crossings reconstruction from the current project phase. This does not preclude a later effort to attempt to tackle this complex work here and elsewhere.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I boil PFAS out of my water?

No. These chemicals cannot be removed by heating or boiling water. See FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. 

 

Category: PFAS
What is the penalty for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay a penalty. The penalty will be imposed in the same manner and the amount provided under ORS 314.400. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will speed humps have channels cut in them so bicycles can ride through them?

Currently, we do not have any speed humps on Neighborhood Bikeways that have channels cut to accommodate for bicyclist and/or vehicles with larger axles, such as emergency vehicles.

While a good idea in theory, we have found that there are two main issues. When bikes and vehicles are sharing the road on local streets, and both a vehicle and bike arrive simultaneously at a speed hump, bikes may be squeezed out of their path of travel by vehicles so vehicles can drive through the channel too. This is when a chain of events can occur. While being closely passed, the rider is forced to move quickly and into crossing the speed hump gap at an angle, which could result in a crash due to the abrupt edges and elevation.

From a maintenance perspective, speed humps with channels are a challenge. The gap accumulates debris such as leaves in the fall, gravel in the winter, and other debris throughout the year. It is simply not possible to remove this material from this gap with our street sweepers. Eventually, it must be manually removed, which is time consuming from an automation standpoint. Since local streets are not swept as frequently as arterials and collectors, this will likely lead to frustration for cyclists.

We will continue to monitor and internally evaluate this topic but at the current time, there is no plan to change the current design of speed humps to accommodate channels.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What if I get water from a well, instead of the City of Corvallis drinking water?

The quality and safety of drinking water from wells that service fewer than 25 persons, such as most household wells, are not regulated by the federal government under the Safe Drinking Water Act nor by many state governments and laws. Furthermore, the City does not have groundwater quality information and does not monitor or regulate drinking water wells.

Private well owners are responsible for assuring safe drinking water for their households. See this FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. If you want to test your well water, visit the Benton County OSU Extension Service’s Water Tests webpage for more information.

Category: PFAS
What is the interest fee for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay interest.  Interest will be added to the overall tax amount due at the same rate established under ORS 305.220 for each month, or fraction of a month, from the time the return to the Tax Administrator was originally required to be filed to the time of the payment.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is a part per trillion? How much is that?

Parts per trillion is a unit of measure. It is a very tiny amount. For perspective, one part per trillion is the equivalent of four grains of sugar in an Olympic sized swimming pool (From EPA Factsheet).  

Category: PFAS
How do I remit my lodging tax payment?

For instructions on how to file the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes, see the filing instructions here. https://www.oregon.gov/dor/forms/FormsPubs/publication-or-olt-ol_604-006.pdf

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How do I obtain approval for a vacation rental?

Approval for property zoning must be obtained from the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development Departments.

The City has received several inquiries from property owners interested in establishing short-term (vacation) rentals. Renting out an entire home for a short-term stay of less than 30 days, with no owner present, is classified in Chapter 3.0 of the City’s Land Development Code (LDC) as a Lodging Service use type. Lodging Services are permitted in a variety of commercial zones, however, they are not permitted within residential zoning districts. Property owners that would like to rent out rooms within their home may qualify as a Home Business. Home Businesses are permitted as accessory uses in a majority of the City’s residential zoning districts. Under the definition of Home Business in the LDC,“…Bed and Breakfast businesses that rent up to two bedrooms within owner occupied dwellings are considered to be Home Businesses and are an allowed use….”

 

City of Corvallis

Development Services

https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/ds

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

Benton County

Community Development

https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax/page/start-short-term-rental

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
I use Airbnb for a vacation rental. Am I required to report lodging taxes?

If you rent space exclusively through Airbnb, then you are only required to register with the Lodging Tax program. You are not required to collect and remit payment. Airbnb as the lodging intermediary for your reservations should collect and remit the lodging taxes on your behalf. 

If you rent space and collect payment from lodging customers directly, then you are required to both register with the City of Corvallis and to remit Lodging Taxes on those collections to the Oregon Department of Revenue. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Does City of Corvallis offer a Lodging Tax Collector reimbursement/administrative fee?

No, the City of Corvallis has a ‘Grandfathered lodging tax'. Local governments that imposed a lodging tax prior to January 1, 2001 are not required to offer a reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax (also known as an Administrative Fee).

Conversely, Benton County has a ‘New lodging tax’. Local governments that imposed a new lodging tax on or after January 1, 2001 must allow collectors to retain a minimum of 5 percent of all collected tax revenues as reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is HB2656 and when did it take effect?

In 2013, the Oregon Legislature enacted Oregon House Bill 2656, which made two important changes to the state law on transient lodging tax. First, the tax must be paid on the full retail price of a room, including any charges added to the price. Second, transient lodging intermediaries, or “online travel companies” that take payment for the rooms they book must remit the tax directly to the state and local jurisdictions on those transactions, rather than forwarding that payment to the hotel or owner. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How are lodging taxes used by the City?

Lodging taxes may be used for visitor information center(s), convention promotion and support, the administration of the lodging tax program and any other municipal purpose.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Is lodging tax in the Corvallis Municipal Code?

Yes, please see Chapter 8.04 - LODGING TAX. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Who can I contact for more information?

Questions related to filing and remitting taxes should be directed to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Questions related to registration should be directed to the City of Corvallis Finance department.

Questions related to property zoning should be directed to the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development departments.

 

State of Oregon City of Corvallis Benton County

Department of Revenue

(503) 378-4988

questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov

www.oregon.gov/dor

Finance | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6729 ext. 5138

transient.roomtax@corvallisoregon.gov

Community Development | Benton County

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us
 

Development Services | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the Benton County lodging tax?

Please visit Benton County Lodging Tax and Permits https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the State lodging tax?

Please visit Oregon Department of Revenue https://www.oregon.gov/DOR/programs/businesses/Pages/lodging.aspx

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What do I do if the equipment needs maintenance?

If the bike trailer(s) need emergency maintenance, the City has an agreement with Spicy Pedals and Corvallis Cyclery. You may take the trailer(s) to either of these locations and have the work performed and billed to Josh Capps at the City of Corvallis. Please notify Josh Capps at 541-766-6916 or josh.capps@corvallisoregon.gov of the situation that occurred and that maintenance was needed. The City is unable to do personal reimbursements.

Category: Portable Bike Racks

Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave

View this project in the Capital Improvement Program document here.
 
Schedule: TBD
 
For more information, contact: 

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle?

Anyone under 16 years of age must wear a helmet unless it violates a religious belief. ORS 814.485

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are bicycle riders required to have lights?

Yes. After dark and during limited visibility conditions, a cyclist must have a white light in front and a red light or red reflector in the rear. This also applies when riding on sidewalks. ORS 815.280

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Are racial restrictions enforceable?

No.

Racial restrictive covenants have been unenforceable since 1948 based on the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and illegal since 1968. The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits the enforcement of racial restrictions.

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
But we get so much rain in the Willamette Valley... water conservation isn't really that important, here is it?

In the summer, water usage increases most with single family residential customers. A single family residential customer is equal to an average of 2.38 people per household. As a comparison, a single family residential customer uses approximately 234 gallons per day during the winter months. During the summer, a single family residential customer uses approximately 341 gallons per day. That is an increase of 46%! 

As you can image, this adds up to a lot of water use in the summer. In Corvallis, we have less rainfall during the summer months than Houston, Texas! Although, we have not experienced a substantial drought condition in recent years, it could very well happen if customer demand for water during the hot, dry summer months exceeds the treatment plants' capacity. In such a situation, customers may be asked to voluntarily reduce their water use on a temporary basis until drought conditions subside. 

Category: Water Conservation
Can I change my initial court date?

It is possible to change your initial court date. You must contact the court office to make arrangements.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I change my trial date?

To get a trial date changed you must write a letter to the Judge requesting a continuance and the reasons why. Your letter must be received in the Court office within 10 days of receiving your trial notice. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
Can I get a copy of my case?

Yes. You need to go to or call the City Attorney's Office at 456 SW Monroe Avenue, Suite 101, Corvallis, Oregon 97333 and request a copy of the police report. This is known as "Discovery" and there is a $20.00 fee. Please call the City Attorney's Office at (541) 766-6906 for more information.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Can I have a court appointed attorney?

You may request a court appointed attorney at your arraignment date. Keep in mind, however, that only misdemeanor charges qualify. You will be required to fill out an affidavit that states your financial status. The court will then decide if you qualify. 

Category: Municipal Court
Can I speak to the Judge in private?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can I talk to the Judge in person or by telephone?

No. In order to remain fair and impartial to all people, the Municipal Court Judge must discuss all cases while acting in his official capacity as Judge, in the courtroom during regularly scheduled court times. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact The Judge
Can the Clerk at the counter take my pleas or reduce my fine?

The Municipal Court does offer a violations Bureau in traffic cases for non-moving violations. You must contact the court to see if your citation would qualify to be handled by the clerk.

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Compensation - How are City employees contributing to the City’s financial situation?

Exempt employees (primarily managers and supervisors) have foregone cost of living increases from FY 08-09 through FY 14-15, and together with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), have moved to a single lower cost high deductible health care plan effective January 2015. The Corvallis Regional Communications Center Association (CRCCA) and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) both followed suit in January 2016. Via the bargaining process, members of the Corvallis Police Officers Association (CPOA) agreed to change from a 10-hour work shift to a more efficient 12-hour work shift. The 12-hour work schedule distributes existing staffing numbers across four shifts instead of six shifts under the 10-hour schedule. This provides more officers per each work shift, which enhances officer safety and prevents significant operational overtime expenditures. Additionally, CPOA has gone to the least expensive, composite rate health plan option available to that unit through the Teamsters Trust, which is considerably less costly than what is provided to other units, since they unfortunately cannot avail themselves of the same insurance option. Members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) agreed to forego their contractually negotiated cost of living adjustment for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2011. This action saved the City an estimated $46,590 assuming the members would have gotten a 2% COLA. Some employees took voluntary leave without pay to help reduce the City’s costs. A number of currently vacant positions continue to be held open, with other employees taking on more work to cover the vacancies. Per the FY14-15 Adopted Budget, the City had eliminated 2.6 full time equivalent (FTE) in order to meet a sustainable budget, after several years of other staffing reductions. Additionally, per the FY 15-16 Adopted Budget, the City reorganized Public Works FTE to decrease total FTE by 1.25 and per the FY 16-17 Adopted Budget, the City eliminated a total of 6.75 FTE due to departmental reorganizations and budget reductions. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11 as known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %

 Bargaining Unit

 FY 16-17

 FY 15-16

FY14-15 

 FY13-14

 FY12-13

 FY11-12

 FY10-11
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -      -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How come City employees get cost-of-living-adjustments (COLA) raises in a bad economy?

Most City employees are members of a collective bargaining unit with an existing labor agreement in place. However, in recent years, some units have elected to forego a COLA in a particular year in order to help keep costs down. Below is a table that shows the history of COLAs, by bargaining unit, since FY10-11, as far as what is known/approved to date:

Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) %:

Bargaining Unit  FY16-17  FY15-16 FY14-15 FY13-14  FY12-13  FY11-12  FY10-11 
 AFSCME  1.50%  -  -  -  -  -  2.8%
 CPOA  2 x 2%  2.0%  -  2.5%  -  -  4.0%
 CRCCA  3.0%  -  1.0%  -  -  2.3%  2.8%
 IAFF  2.0%  -  1.1%  2.0%  -  -  2.8%
 Exempt  2.0%  2.0%  -  -  -  -  -
Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How do Corvallis salaries compare with other similar-sized cities?

Under the State of Oregon Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act, municipalities compare to similar sized cities during labor negotiations. In addition, the City Council has adopted a Compensation Policy for the City to set total compensation based on the mean of comparable sized cities and internal equity, that is how City employees compare to one another. Generally, the comparable cities the City of Corvallis uses include at least: Albany, Bend, Lake Oswego, Medford, Springfield, and Tigard. Generally Corvallis' total compensation is within 5% of the mean of these comparators. Some Corvallis positions are paid higher or lower than the 5% differential. In the case of public safety units, which are not allowed to strike, arbitration guides many labor decisions including wages, and these wages have generally risen faster than non-public safety. This can also impact management salaries where there is a need to maintain a pay differential between staff and management in order to avoid compression and attract relevant expertise with the increased responsibility.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - How much would the City save if all the employee groups agreed to forgo their cost of living adjustments (COLA) this year?

his calculation can be complicated based on certain contractual increases where the COLA for a given bargaining unit may receive equity changes in job class for certain positions. One way to put the cost in perspective is to consider that a 1% reduction in projected FY 12-13 salaries (including an estimated impact for FICA and PERS contributions that are based on a % of pay) would result in savings of around $233,000 a year for all regular employees in the General Fund.
In the short term such salary savings would carry forward; in that future increases would be built on a lower base salary than would have been the case with the COLA. However, such savings would be temporary due to the way Oregon collective bargaining law works and would not continue to provide savings for the long term, structural funding problem. Under state law, represented employees are categorized as either eligible to strike or as "strike prohibited" which are public safety units -- in Corvallis police, fire, and dispatch. These employees have a system of binding arbitration that is based largely on comparable total compensation. So, if Corvallis does not increase its wages and benefits while other cities do, we fall behind. This can impact recruitment and retention, and also leaves the City vulnerable under state law to having an arbitrator impose increases on the City as a later date, bringing us back to where we would have been had we taken the cost-of-living adjustment. That is, while we would save money initially, foregoing an increase is not sustainable over the long term because the labor market would continue to increase.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What does the City pay on behalf of current employees (vs. retired employees) for medical/dental/vision/RX premiums as a % of both personnel service costs and total operating budget?

Currently just over 7% of the City’s total operating budget is spent on active employees’ medical/dental benefits and roughly 14% of total personnel service costs (not including retiree benefits) is made up of these benefit expenditures. Medical/dental coverage for retired employees who were hired prior to August 1992 (employees hired after this date are no longer eligible for city paid coverage) represents almost 2% of total personnel service costs. 

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - What is the practical application of furloughs to non-public safety employees?

There are a lot of issues, which are more questions than answers, about furloughs. A furlough is a change in wage and hours which requires collective bargaining for represented employees. The method used to implement a furlough makes a big difference. The most common form of furlough in current practice is to close facilities for a day; other alternatives include shortening the work day (i.e., open offices at 10 AM instead of 8), closing facilities for a one week period (for example closing from Christmas to New Year's), or having employees take mandatory “floating” furlough days. The model chosen influences such questions as:
• If facilities would all be closed at one time, would furloughs apply to all City operations except Police/Fire front line responders or just to property tax funded services? There are operations not funded by property taxes that would require at least one employee to be on duty (i.e., Wastewater Treatment Plant). Library branches, funded through the Benton County Library Service District, would be a lot like the city’s non-property tax funded services, so it would have to be determined whether a City furlough would apply to these operations. If Parking Enforcement Officers were furloughed, there would be no enforcement of parking regulations. If the Utility Billing Office (funded by the utilities funds) is furloughed, there would be no meter reading or turn on/off services that day of the week. Exempt staff (mostly managers) would not be allowed to work on a furlough day or their exempt status for the week would be jeopardized and they could be eligible for overtime for any hours over 40 for that week which would not normally be the case. Part-time employees who have a regularly scheduled day off on a closed furlough day would have to have other time off or not contribute to savings.
• If the furlough was taken as a “floating day” and facilities were not closed, there could be undue burden in some locations to meet customer service coverage issues, especially when other staff members are on leave such as a sick day. There would also be an increased administrative burden to be sure all employees were taking their required furlough days. This is the model that was implemented for the AFSCME union members for the 2-days of furlough leave agreed upon for a one year contract in fiscal year 2011-12.

Regardless of the model, issues that arise include:
• Compensation when employees are called out on a furlough day to address a short-term emergency (i.e., a Battalion Chief to oversee a fire incident or for a Fire Prevention Officer to investigate; the on-call Public Works Supervisor called in for a broken water line; an IT systems administrator is called in for a network of public safety system outage). This issue is exacerbated for a longer-term emergency (i.e., snow/ice storm, flooding).
• Work on capital projects may have to be stopped on a furlough day because there will not be inspection services/project manager availability to answer questions, meet inspection requirements, etc. If so, this could increase costs for certain projects.
• Work on private construction projects may also be a concern if the Development Services inspectors are furloughed and unable to inspect as timely as in other situations. All these questions arise each time the City considers and/or works with union negotiations to implement furloughs and do serve to influence the amount of savings a furlough produces. There are several agencies which have implemented furloughs that do help provide models for the City to use, should with this suggestion become a viable longer term solution.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why did the City add staff when they knew there was a long term funding City services issue?

In FY 08-09 the City had an $8 million fund balance in the funds that receive property taxes and cautioned the community that harder times were coming. All staff additions are made after careful consideration by the Budget Commission and City Council, and staff additions may be made knowing there are future funding issues involved. But because the staff additions are deemed "critical" by elected and appointed officials the staff additions are authorized. City staffing has decreased overall in the last few years; however, the downward trend in FTE stopped in FY13-14 when net total staffing increased by 10.025 FTE (full time equivalents): 0.750 FTE increase due to reorganizations; 3.500 FTE added for enhancements; 4.375 FTE funded by the 2013 Operating Levy (although in total, the Levy will now fund 22.500 FTE, including previously authorized staffing for the Osborn Aquatic Center, Chintimini Senior Center and Library Monday hours, as well as 3.0 FTE Police Officers previously unfunded); 4.000 FTE added for the new Residential Parking District; and 2.600 FTE eliminated to meet a sustainable budget. However, this trend did not spill into FY 15-16 as the Residential Parking District positions did not come to fruition due to the unsuccessful outcome at the polls and overall authorized FTE decreased by a net 1.25 FTE due to reorganizations.

Category: Financial Budget
Compensation - Why doesn't the city do furloughs or work 32 hour weeks for non-emergency personnel?

The City has considered and continues to look at potential savings if non-emergency staff worked four 10-hour days and offices were closed one extra day each week. Furloughs have also been discussed and were implemented (2 days) by the AFSCME unit for FY 11-12, as a mechanism to help maintain their benefit levels for an additional year. Because furloughs are a reduction in work hours and therefore pay, implementing additional furloughs would require bargaining with the appropriate labor representatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Does the City add fluoride to the water?

Yes, we do. In 1952, the citizens of Corvallis voted to have fluoride added to City drinking water. Several years later, a group of residents wanted the City to stop adding fluoride, so a second vote was held in 1960. Citizens voted 2-to-1 to continue adding fluoride to the water. 

Fluoride, known for its cavity-fighting benefits, is of special interest to parents with young children. Studies have shown that it strengthens tooth enamel and inhibits acid production by decay-causing bacteria in dental plaque. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends a fluoride concentration of 0.7 to 1.2 ppm in drinking water. Our target fluoride level is 0.8 ppm. 

Category: Water Treatment
Expenditure - Why doesn’t the City lower its costs?

Over the past decade the City has taken numerous steps to lower costs. Examples are wide ranging and include implementing energy efficiency measures such as facility heating/cooling systems, changing lighting, and decreasing paper usage; increasing the share of medical/dental insurance employees pay and changing benefits; and entering into numerous partnerships with other governments and non-profits to jointly provide services. Even with these measures, the City’s costs continue to rise. Services supported by property taxes and other non-designated revenues are heavily invested in personnel – police officers, fire fighters, lifeguards, librarians, recreation program staff, and parks maintenance workers. Most of the staff positions for the City are paid according to collective bargaining agreements, and in some cases these agreements are subject to arbitration to ensure that Corvallis staff are paid at a comparable rate to similar sized cities.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Did balancing the budget for FY 11-12 resolve the problem?

It did not. $2.5 million in expenditure reductions, in FY 10-11, and another $1.8 million in reductions for FY 11-12 combined with a successful, voter approved 3-year operating levy in May 2011 improved the financial outlook for FY 12-13 but not enough. In staff’s future financial projections, revenues and expenditures remain unbalanced with expenditures exceeding revenues by several million dollars each year. The long-term structural imbalance still needs to be addressed. The efforts made during the previous budget planning periods have provided additional, but limited time to develop the community-wide process needed to discuss revenue alternatives as well as service reductions and how best to proceed to meet the community’s needs and priorities. In FY 12-13 Council bought off on a new Financial Planning model that looks at rebuilding reserves and enacting a more sustainable budget that balances recurring revenues and expenditures. In addition, during the FY14-15 budgeting cycle, the expenditure limit concept was implemented for each department, ensuring that revenues would equal expenditures within a five-year planning window.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought passage of Measures 66 and 67 would mean no cuts, so why is this happening?

Measures 66 and 67 increase income taxes paid to the state and increase funding for state funded programs. They have no direct impact on the City’s funding.

Category: Financial Budget
General - I thought that in FY 09-10 the City had plenty of money. What happened?

While the budgeting process based on past historically normed averages appeared promising, revenues in the property tax funds in FY 08-09 ended up being about $1 million lower than expected, and expenditures were almost exactly as expected. As a result, some of the “usual” annual savings were not realized. That, combined with fairly flat revenue projections for FY 09-10 and future fiscal years, and increasing expenses, leads to a structural problem where annual revenue is lower than the annual operating expenses. This situation continued to worsen in all recent year actuals through to and including FY 12-13 actuals.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Is there a way to get the 3% growth in revenue matched better to the 6% growth in expenditures?

There is no easy answer on this one. Growing property taxes beyond current projections is limited by Oregon State law through state-wide voter approved ballot initiatives (Measures 5, 47 and 50 for property taxes). Although new development would allow more significant increases in property tax revenue, the City would need to add nearly $200 million in new development to raise $1 million in revenue. Some new revenue sources are subject to state preemptions (i.e., local real estate transfer tax). Others are subject to difficulties associated with collections or administration (i.e., states that have a local sales tax often use state collections processes for local revenues; states that have local income taxes use the state income tax as a base and the state collects). Oregon has a long history of voter dislike of new taxes (i.e., Oregon’s many failed attempts to put in place a statewide sales tax).

In the last several years Corvallis has attempted to improve local revenues through adoption of a local telecommunications tax that was referred to the voters and failed, and through discussions of a business license fee, local meal tax, and local entertainment tax. All of these had strong local opposition and never moved forward. Added to the challenges associated with adopting a local, significant new tax would be the market difficulties Corvallis’ businesses might face if there was a local income or sales tax that did not apply in Philomath, Albany, etc. Basically, to expand the local revenue stream in any significant way for tax-based services will require some movement on the State’s part.

Some of the services which get discussed for possible cuts, most notably Parks & Recreation services, charge fees for most programs. Fees are set based on City Council financial cost recovery policies, market tolerance, including competitors and direct costs to deliver the program while balancing the mission of Public Recreation to be accessible to all community members. Fees are reviewed annually by the Parks, Natural Areas and Recreation Board and City Council. A simple analysis that assumes no change in participation (which, due to elasticity of demand, is unlikely to be true), but full cost recovery through fees at the Aquatic Center would increase charges 176%. Daily entry for one swim session is projected to increase from $4 to $11 – likely pricing most users out of the use of the pool. Parks & Recreation staff completes a fee comparison of local and state-wide aquatic centers as part of the annual fee review. Corvallis rates are generally at or above the median fees charged for almost all activities (child through senior) and for annual memberships. Review of fees of Parks and Recreation programs, including the Aquatic Center, occurs each spring through the Department's advisory board and City Council. Staff anticipates recommending some increase in fees each year, but not at a level that recovers all costs in order to remain competitive with other aquatic facilities and fulfill the mission of Public Recreation as outlined in its cost recovery model.
Like the revenue picture, the expenditure side of the equation is equally challenged by State laws. In particular, the State’s collective bargaining laws, that require comparisons with similar sized governments, in many cases means that labor negotiations are not completed solely within the discretion of the City Council. Arbitration requirements for Police, Fire, and 9-1-1 units do not necessarily allow the City Council to include “ability to pay” among the factors to be considered in labor negotiations as the primary factor. All of this means that as Corvallis’ comparators increase compensation, Corvallis must follow.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Please explain the "structural problems with how local government services are financed" in Oregon; what are these structural problems and what does this concept mean?

Cities have fairly specific limits on how they can raise revenues, with property taxes as the primary revenue source for many services. Although Corvallis has been assertive in pursuing alternative revenues (i.e., fees for participation in Parks & Recreation classes, implementation of the Library Service District) there are not a lot of alternatives that produce significant revenues. Also, often times services which are funded with property taxes and other non-dedicated revenues (franchise fees, state revenue sharing, transient room taxes) cannot actually be funded by charges for service since a specific user cannot be identified.

Furthermore, property taxes were limited in 1996/97's statewide elections on Measure 47/50. Property tax growth is generally limited to 3% per year, and most people who live in Corvallis would agree that their assessed value (AV) (and the taxes paid to the City) have gone up close to 3% each year. This assumption is generally true for residential and commercial property, where real market value (RMV) continues to increase -- usually faster than 3% annually -- so that most residential and commercial property now has an AV rating that is about 60% of the RMV. However, industrial property has an AV that is generally equal to a declining RMV. In Corvallis, industrial property has decreased in value about 10% annually since 1997. In some years this decrease has been offset by added value from new development. However, there has been no real new taxable development in the past several years, so property tax revenue to the City is pretty flat.

Other non-dedicated revenues are also holding flat or growing very slowly -- franchise fees have been flat or in some cases declined as people quit using land lines, conserve energy and water, etc. Transient room taxes declined for several years as people travelled less for business and/or for pleasure. While the parts of State Revenue Sharing tied to alcohol taxes have continued to grow in general, they are not growing enough to offset property tax losses.

All this adds up to a total revenue stream that is, at best, growing 2.5% to 3% annually.

At the same time, expenditure growth, which is predominantly in salaries and benefits, has been around five to six percent annually. Drivers of this growth include:
 

 

  • Wages/salaries - As with revenue limitations, many of the compensation issues are governed by Oregon law that sets requirements for labor negotiations and include comparing total compensation with like-sized cities. Furthermore, City Council compensation policy has been to attempt to be at or near the mean of compensation in like-sized Oregon cities (which includes total wages and benefits) as well as balancing external comparators with internal equity and avoiding salary compression between jobs.
  • Benefits -- in particular for medical and dental insurance, have been increasing in the range of 10% annually for many of the past years.
  • PERS payments -- Oregon Public Employee Retirement System (OPERS) employer rates are set for a biennial period to follow the State's budget. The City's employer rates have been increasing, especially for the older PERS Tier 1/2 employees. The Oregon Supreme Court's decision that a significant share of the legislative changes to the Tier 1/2 benefits were unconstitutional, combined with the PERS Board's reduction in the assumed rate of return from 8% to 7.75% for 2015 and 7.5% for 2016, and anemic earnings during the same period will lead to significant increases in PERS rates beginning July 1, 2017; however, a firm rate will be provided to the City in the late fall 2016. Additional rate increases of a similar level are expected beginning July 1, 2019 and July 1, 2021.
  • Binding arbitration drives wages for three of the City’s public-safety related bargaining units: CPOA, IAFF, and CRCCA, which in turn drive some of the internal comparators when Human Resources staff review positions. It also, to some extent, drives wages for exempt employees to be sure that a supervisor is compensated higher than the people supervised.

Combined, these factors drive the lion's share of the City's expenditures. Even some of the non-labor expenditures can see significant increases in costs (i.e., a proposed 20% increase in electricity, rising fuel costs, etc.) that all work together to cause expenditures to grow faster than revenues.
Over time, this structural issue – where revenue grows at two to three percent and expenditures grow at five to six percent – creates an untenable situation where the level of services provided cannot continue because they simply cost more than the City will raise. Other cities are experiencing very similar issues as outlined in the League of Oregon City's recent publication "State of the Cities."

Category: Financial Budget
General - Why is the City in budget trouble?

The City’s major revenue sources for certain functions, collectively called the property tax supported operations, have been growing more slowly than the costs to provide services.

Category: Financial Budget
General - Won’t this get better when the economy gets going again?

Probably not. Significant new taxable development would have to occur to raise property tax revenue. For example, to increase revenue by about $1 million annually, about $195 million in assessed value, or 652 homes each with an assessed value of around $300,000 would have to be added. Franchise Fees, the second highest non-designated revenue, have been decreasing as more people are conserving energy and water, and as people drop land line telephones. Transient room taxes are picking back up as the economy has shown some improvement. However, at around $1.5 million, even 10% growth will not bring in enough revenue to solve the City’s funding challenges. The state taxes alcohol and cigarettes and shares the revenue with local governments, but with the state’s financial challenges there is discussion at the legislature about ending the revenue sharing arrangement.

Category: Financial Budget
How can I report hazardous road conditions?

Residents may report problems or concerns to Public Works (541-766-6916) during regular business hours (M - F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.). To report hazardous situations after hours, weekends or holidays, please call 911.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
How do I report a concern or request a transportation-related improvement?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Staff will investigate and determine if there is an issue that needs to be addressed, and if so, how it compares with competing priorities, and whether there is staffing and budget capacity to address it. Examples of more easy-to-implement improvements include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. In contrast, if the request would result in the installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have un-budgeted funding readily available. These types of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How does citation fees in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

Corvallis’ citation fee is currently $10, and the new fee will be $15. The average citation fee for the comparator cities listed above averages $18.40. It averages over $23 when Davis, CA is included.

How often is our drinking water quality tested?

Drinking water is perishable. That is why the City of Corvallis takes steps to prevent water quality degradation from the time the water leaves the treatment plant until it gets to your tap. Laboratory professionals take routine samples from sampling stations strategically located in the distribution system. Routine sampling lets the staff confirm that our water is free from harmful bacteria and that there is sufficient chlorine for continued disinfection throughout the system. Automated, continuous water quality monitoring stations also take real-time samples from the distribution system throughout the entire day, every day, all year long. The data are continuously relayed to water system staff to assist them in optimizing water quality. See the annual Consumer Confidence Report for more information about our water quality and testing.

Category: Water Conservation
How will the City know if violations occur?

For implementation of this ordinance to be effective, the City needs your help! Citizens who witness a possible violation are encouraged to contact the Public Works Department by calling the 24-hr pollution prevention hotline at 541-766-6565.

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How will the implementation of this ordinance be paid for?

There will be no additional fees to rate payers as a direct result of this ordinance. The implementation of this ordinance, in addition to other programs aimed at reducing stormwater pollution, is funded through stormwater utilities fees, which you can see on your monthly utility bill. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
How would I know about a problem with the water supply?

The City of Corvallis keeps close watch on your water supply. The law requires that you be informed if there is a problem with your water. Potential sources for this news are the radio, television, newspapers, the Benton County Environmental Health Department, the Oregon Health Authority Drinking Water Program, or directly from the City of Corvallis.

Category: Water Conservation
I heard that lawns need one inch of water per week. Is this true? How much water should I put on my garden or landscape plants?

It's true! In the early spring, the soil has all the water it can hold. As the temperatures warm and the daylight hours lengthen, plants increase the amount of water they remove from the soil, and the amount of water that evaporates from the soil also increases. The amount of water that you apply to your lawn or landscape should equal the amount of water lost through evaporation and transpiration, often called evapotranspiration, or simply ET. Corvallis averages about 34 inches of rain and 34 inches of ET each year. Theoretically, nobody should ever have to water their lawn at all! Of course the rain comes when plants are not growing as rapidly, so many people irrigate. While one inch per week is a good average for the growing season, the amount of irrigation you apply should change from week to week. Your plants need more water in July than in May or September. Check out the Smart Irrigation and A Golden Landscape and Water Efficient Plant Guide for more information about irrigation, lawns, and conserving water.

Category: Water Conservation
I don't feel like driving in these conditions. What are my options?

Residents are encourages to use alternate modes, such as public transportation, if roads are icy. Visit www.corvallistransit.com for route and schedule information.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
I want to store some water for a possible emergency. Is bottled water ok to store?

Bottled water can be a good source of drinking water during an emergency, but it does not store well for long periods of time. Generally, bottled water does not contain a disinfectant, so microbes may grow in it over time. Because of this, bottled water should be treated as a perishable food product. Tap water does contain low levels of disinfectant and should be stored in capped plastic or glass containers. However, even properly stored tap water will not last indefinitely and should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. 

Category: Water Treatment
If I plead guilty, do I have to pay today?

Yes, if possible. If you need time to pay, be sure you ask the Judge when you enter your plea. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
If I plead not guilty, when will my trial be?

Trials are set for Mondays and Thursdays. Cases are set in advance about two months. If you plead not guilty today, your case will be set within approximately two months. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
In the event of bad weather, which City streets will be cleared first?

For snow and ice events, plowing and sanding in Corvallis are prioritized into four categories:

  • Priority 1 
    The following streets are considered to be the minimum network which must be kept open to provide a transportation system that connects to essential facilities, hospitals, fire stations, police stations, and emergency response units: Good Samaritan (Samaritan Drive and Emergency Room access); Fire Station access (5th Street, Circle Boulevard, 35th Street, Tunison Avenue); all Corvallis Transit System routes; select streets within the Central Business District connecting to essential facilities (2nd Street, Jackson, Tyler, Polk & Adams Avenues); and Corvallis Public Works access (Waterworks Drive). 
  • Priority 2 
    The following streets provide significant secondary access routes for emergency responders and community travel: arterials and collectors—Circle Boulevard, Research Way, Brooklane Drive, 49th Street, 45th Street, Birdsong, 26th Street, 29th Street, 30th Street, Grant Avenue, Washington Avenue, Alexander Avenue, Thompson Street, Harrison Boulevard, Van Buren Avenue, Garfield Avenue, Glenridge Drive, Ponderosa Avenue, and lower elevation areas of Witham Hill Drive and Elks Drive. 
  • Priority 3 
    All other local roads and facilities not listed as Priority 1 or 2. Streets and areas include residential streets that connect to arterial and collector streets listed in Priority 2 and City owned public parking lots. 
  • Priority 4 
    Streets and areas in this category include: Higher elevation areas (Skyline West, South Hills, Garryanna, Rolling Green, Estaview, Elmwood, Myrtlewood, Witham Hill, Elks Drive), the Corvallis Municipal Airport, and Cul-de-sacs.

Note: Except when requested by fire or police, plowing and sanding will not take place in the following areas: private streets, streets and cul-de-sacs exceeding 15% grade, alleys, and streets maintained by other agencies (ODOT, Benton County, and OSU).
Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Is bottled water safer than tap water?

Like tap water, the safety of bottled water depends both on the source water and the treatment process. Because bottled water is considered a food product, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Starting this year, the FDA will require bottled water manufacturers to test their source water and the finished product once a year; however, the quality of the finished product is not government monitored. Any bottled water that contains contaminants in excess of the allowable level is considered mislabeled unless it has a statement of substandard quality. If you use bottled water, consider it a food product and refrigerate it after opening. 

The use of bottled water or home treatment devices is a personal choice, which may be based on taste preferences. If however, you use these products for health reasons, we suggest that you thoroughly research the product you are selecting to assure that it offers the level of protection you are seeking. 

Category: Water Treatment
Is it safe?

Where necessary, the sealant will be covered with a fine layer of sand to limit tracking. However, caution is still advised. When the material is first applied, it is extremely hot (400°), wet, sticky, and very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings. For the safety of children and pets, please keep them off the streets on the day your street is sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Is it true that City of Corvallis property owners are taxed twice for the library district because they are both in the county and the city?

It is true that Corvallis residents pay for the Library in both City of Corvallis property taxes and in the Library Service District property taxes. This was known and discussed at length at the time the Library Service District was put into place by voters.

Category: Financial Budget
Is washing my personal car in my driveway or street considered a violation?

Discharge from individual residential car washing would not be a violation of this ordinance (Section 4.04.030). Although residential car washing is allowed, the City encourages citizens to prevent soap and car grime from entering streams by taking cars to a commercial car wash. In Corvallis, commercial car washes are connected to the City sanitary system, which can treat and remove pollutants. The City Stormwater Program also has a free SudSafe carwash kit for loan to keep suds, dirt, and oils out of the storm system,. This kit is available for stream-friendly car wash fundraisers! 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
I’ve heard about dioxin. What is it?

Dioxin is one of a group of chemicals called chlorinated organics. These compounds form when chlorine reacts with organic materials, like leaves, woody material, or decaying plants, in the water. Formation of these compounds depends on several factors including: the amount of organic material present, the concentration and form of chlorine, and the amount of time the chlorine is in contact with the organic material. Dioxin is a highly complex compound that generally only forms when large quantities of organic material and chlorine are in contact for long periods of time. The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level for dioxin in drinking water is 30 parts per quadrillion (ppq). We have been testing for the presence of dioxin in city water since 1991. To date, dioxin has not been detected in our finished drinking water. 

Category: Water Treatment
I’ve heard about THMs in the news lately. What are they?

When organic materials (such as the algae, leaves, or decaying plants found in untreated source water) react with the chlorine disinfectant during the treatment process, disinfection by-products can be created. Some of these by-products form a group of chemicals called trihalomethanes, or THMs. In excessive quantities, these by-products may have harmful health effects. The maximum contaminant level (MCL) of trihalomethanes allowed in drinking water is 100 parts per billion. 

As part of the 1997 Taylor Plant upgrade, enhanced treatment processes and four new filters were installed to help us meet federal drinking water regulations regarding THMs. These improvements have dramatically increased the plant’s efficiency for removing particles that may contain organic material from the source water. The treatment process has also been modified so that chlorine is only added to the water in the final step of treatment. These improvements will help ensure that the formation of disinfection by-products is kept to a minimum. 

Category: Water Treatment
Other Services - If the City is in so much financial trouble, why doesn’t it just not do . . .

There are a lot of suggestions made about ending programs. This FAQ is a gathering spot for some of the ideas suggested in public forums, editorials, or community gatherings. Some of the more common suggestions and the City’s response include:

  • Cut the Housing Assistance program – this program is not funded by any property taxes.
  • Cut the newsletter – the City is often cited as the best source of information for many in the community about what is going on in the City. The print version was cut in 2002, replaced as an on-line only publication, but it was quickly added back due to the complaints and the dramatic drop in survey respondents reporting they had enough information about the City. Nevertheless, when additional reductions were required in City services for the FY12-13 cycle, budget for the newsletter was cut again; as of July 1, 2012 the newsletter is available as an online-only publication.  Those interested in receiving the newsletter via e-mail may sign up for the e-notification system on the City’s website.
  • Cut maintenance workers or decrease maintenance of flower beds instead of Police or Firefighters – this can and is considered each budget cycle, as noted in previous discussions with the Budget Commission. However, only cuts in Parks and Recreation or certain General Fund Facilities Maintenance work would impact the property tax funds. Workers in utilities or street maintenance are not funded by property taxes.
  • The City’s web site fails to tell us how many are on the City’s payroll – the City’s entire FY16-17 Adopted Budget is on the web site. Page 35 shows how many positions the City has authorized for the year. All told, the City employs between 500 and 650 people annually when summertime seasonal and temporary employees are working.
  • Cut the most recent additions - more recently added programs are considered for elimination by all departments when cuts are needed. However, each Department Director, along with Advisory Boards and Commissions, need to prioritize the entire menu of services offered to determine what to put on a cut list; the newest programs may be the most cost/beneficial to citizens, and so are not always the most reasonable to eliminate in all circumstances. 
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Is there a list of enhancements and FTE changes over the last several years updated for the current status of same?

Answer: In Attachment 2 of the February 4, 2010 special Budget Commission meeting packet there is a list of enhancements added in the six years prior to that date and the status of each at that time. In Attachment 3 from that same packet is a table of FTE counts by Department dating back to 2000. This table summarizes the increases and decreases in staffing for each department over the last decade. The FY 16-17 Adopted Budget Document also shows trending information on City staffing beginning on page 35.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What can the City do to be more efficient?

City staff have taken a number of actions over the last decade to become more efficient in operations, and in how monies are expended and continuously look for improvements to City operations ongoing. Departments have been reorganized, new data management systems implemented to both improve staff efficiency and customer service, positions reduced or eliminated, public and private partnerships put in place/maintained, and bond issues have been advance refunded to take advantage of the market and achieve real dollar savings in debt service payments. Up until FY12-13 when the membership cost was eliminated from the Budget, Corvallis participated in the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA) – Center for Performance Measurement (CPM) process where a set of standard measures are tracked each year. Corvallis has usually shown high marks when compared to similar sized cities from Oregon and the nation. The City also has tracked historical trends on its own operations that it reports quarterly to demonstrate improving efficiencies or potential for same with a change in related resources. Some examples of such measures are included in the Quarterly Operating Reports published on the City's website.

Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - What does the City really do with the donations I make on my utility bill?

It depends on the donation since there are several types.

  • For the Voluntary Low Income Assistance Donation Program donations, the City provides the monies to the United Way. When citizens approach the City for help with their bills the City refers the person to the United Way, which uses the donation monies to pay the person’s City utility bill. The United Way works with people who are in need to facilitate assistance for a wide variety of payments (City utility bills, electric bills, rent assistance, etc.) and can also work with people on getting them into counseling, job re-training programs or similar safety net programs.
  • For the Voluntary Parks Donation Programs donations, the monies are deposited in the Parks & Recreation Fund and are used to pay for a portion of the costs for the Youth Parks Corps program which is a part-time summer employment opportunity for youth between 14 and 16 years of age. Youth learn some basic employment skills working on a wide variety of projects in City parks.
  • For the Voluntary Library Donation Program the monies are deposited in the Library Fund and are used for the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.
Category: Financial Budget
Other Services - Which City facilities (senior center, aquatic center, etc.) pay for themselves, and which don't? Why don't the ones that don't cover their expenses raise their fees?

None of the City’s facilities pay for themselves except the Water, Wastewater, and Storm Water systems and the Corvallis Municipal Airport. Fees for activities are reviewed annually. The review takes into account both the coverage and the elasticity of demand related to the fee. For all City facilities except those which currently cover all costs, if the City set fees high enough to cover all costs without the use of property taxes, many people who currently use the services and or facilities would not be able to afford it, which could lower total fee revenue and as fewer people use the service, would defeat the purpose of having these as public facilities.

Category: Financial Budget
Please provide information on the amount spent on law enforcement in Corvallis and the % of those expenditures as part of both the property tax funded expenditures as well as of total Citywide ops?
 
The best source of info for questions like these is the City's most recent Budget Document. Within the FY16-17 document, this particular information can be found on pages: pg. 22 (for total Police budget vs. total Citywide or for General Fund Police budget vs. total General Fund budget); or pg. 146 (Department summary for Police Dept - breaks down General Fund/9-1-1 Fund and Parking Fund portion of the total Police Budget). Although Parking Fund information was not specifically sought in the question above, the provision of same helps paint a more complete picture. Some data has been summarized in the table below:
 

 FY 16-17 Exp. Budget

 % General Fund Exp. Budget

 % Citywide Oper. Exp. Budget
Police - General Fund (1) 

 $12,549,750

28.8% 

12.9% 

Police - 911 Fund (2)

 2,388,730

 see footnote (2)

 2.4%

Police - Parking Fund (3) 

 291,420

 0%

 0.3%
Police - Vehicle/Equip Reserve Fund 

 88,920

  

 0.1%

Total Police Dept. Operating Bgt.

 15,318,820

 

 15.7%

Total Property Tax Funds - Oper. Exp. 

 43,554290

 100%

 44.6%

Total Citywide Operating Exp. 

 97,633,900

 

 100.0%

(1) Primarily property tax funded - included in General Fund.

(2) Approximately 50% funded by Property Taxes via Police & Fire in FY 16-17 (but in its own fund).

(3) Primarily funded by parking fine revenue in own fund (no property taxes). Additional interesting and helpful information regarding both the Police Department and the overall City budget is available on the City's website under the Finance Department “Financial Documents & Resources” location.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - How come the "important" stuff, like police and fire, are always at the top of the chopping block?

Police and Fire are not always on the top of the chopping block. However, combined, these two departments represent almost 56% of the total operating expenses in the General Fund, and nearly 68% of the draw on non-designated revenues. If cuts are not discussed or considered then there is no way to balance the impact of cuts on other services – Parks, Library, Land- Use Planning, Municipal Court, Economic Development – against alternatives.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Is there a study of Police Management and Detectives staffing levels?

The Matrix Police Staffing Study did not highlight anything on supervisors to line staff ratios as an area where management could be decreased to allow more line officers. Since Council did not support pursuing a comparable jurisdiction survey by the Local Government Performance Institute (LGPI) during the FY 11-12 budget process, due to the timing and cost of the proposal, staff did some additional research on both Police Department management to officer ratios in other cities and all other departments’ management and line staff FTE to workload ratios which was presented during the January 27, 2011 presentation to Budget Commission.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why can't we reduce Police staffing?

The City has commissioned staffing studies for both Police Officer staffing levels and 9-1-1 Dispatch staffing levels. Both reports indicate that additional staff is needed to meet minimum standards and best practice levels of service. To read more, see these reports. In addition, the League of Oregon Cities published a research report titled “City Police Officer Data – 2009” that provides detailed tables and analysis of the number of full-time officers in city police departments. LOC developed this report using data from the Oregon State Police, Law Enforcement Data Systems (LEDS). In order to look at the trend in city police departments, LOC’s data tables look at the number of officers and the officers per 1,000 people in 1999 and 2009. LOC also formats the data to look at trends based on population size. It is important to note however, the number of officers used in this study are from LEDS and not from the individual departments. LEDS numbers of sworn officers is based upon a moment in time and based upon the number of officers currently listed with LEDS to access the LEDS system. The department staffing numbers may not necessarily represent authorized FTE counts since vacancies, at a minimum, are excluded.

Category: Financial Budget
Public Safety - Why did the City build/staff another firehouse when they should have seen money getting tight?

A considerable amount of work was done when the Zimbrick Station (located on Walnut) was built and staffed eight years ago. Fire Department response times are critical in cases of both fire and medical emergencies. To meet minimum response times in the growing northwest part of town and for the Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District a new station was needed. While calls for service in the intervening years have continued to grow, and despite the strong probability of increased response times for Fire-related emergencies, the Zimbrick Station was closed effective June 16, 2012 based on cost reductions necessary to balance the City’s budget. A study was conducted for the FY 12-13 budget cycle that determined closing the Zimbrick station in combination with moving an ambulance and reorganizing response team staffing should result in improved EMS response times for medical emergencies, which represent the largest number of calls received by the department. With growing northwest populations however, it is not clear that keeping the station closed long-term will be viable for life safety issues. There is increased risk that may be apparent in insurance premiums paid by homeowners in recent and ensuing years.

Studies done when the Zimbrick Station was being considered, as well as the 2012 study that resulted in the Station's closure, are available for review here:

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the City get franchise money from Comcast? If so, hasn't that been increasing enough to offset the Qwest land line losses?

Comcast began paying franchise fees on phone service in FY 2009. Annual revenues although growing, are still less than $170,000 per year, so have not served to offset the land line losses.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Does the property tax budget issue affect all City operations?

No. It only affects the operations funded by property taxes and other non-designated revenues. The primary services funded by these sources include Police, Fire, Library, Land-Use Planning, Economic Development, Municipal Court and Parks and Recreation. While there are always financial challenges to do with user fee rate setting in the water, sewer, storm water, airport, housing, parking, transit or development services funds, these services do not receive any property tax revenue so service priorities are more standalone in nature.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How can you say that property taxes are not growing – my taxes went up last year?

Oregon constitutional tax limits allow each property’s assessed value to increase 3% every year unless the property’s real market value is reduced to below the assessed value. In Benton County, residential property is generally assessed at about 60% of the real market value, so even in the down economy, drops in real market value have not stopped the 3% increase in assessed value on many parcels of property. For example, if your home had a real market value of $300,000 and assessed value of around $180,000 (60% of real market value), your property’s real market value would have to drop to below $180,000 to see a reduction in property taxes.

Other classes of property, like industrial property, have real market value close to the assessed value, and with declining real market value the assessed value, and the taxes that are paid, decline each year. Industrial property is such a large proportion of the City’s total assessed value that the overall reductions in their value, particularly with successful revaluations by tax payers such as Hewlett-Packard, bring the total growth in all assessed value down to less than 3%. For FY13-14, the City’s total assessed value, and property tax revenue, increased by only 1.49%; however, FY 14-15 saw a 4.28% increase, and FY 15-16 saw only a 2.49% increase, bringing the average over the prior ten years to 2.73%.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - How much franchise fee revenue has been lost from Qwest by the move from land lines to cell phones?

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - If the proportion of the total revenues impacted by property taxes is less than 50% of total revenue, why is this such a big deal?

Though property tax sources are only about 30% of the City’s total operations, when looking at General Fund operations alone, the combination of permanent rate taxes, Operating Levy dollars, Library district and Rural Fire district monies as well as other non-dedicated revenue sources provide more than 70% of the monies for the fire, land-use planning and police and more than 50% for library, parks & recreation and economic development services. Many of these are services where there is either no real way to charge specific users or where the charges would be so high that very few could afford to use the service.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Is there a way to have a tiered tax rate levy?

There does not appear to be anything in statute that would allow a multi-rate levy. However, a higher rate levy can be underlevied – as has occurred with the 509J levy where voter approval is for a maximum rate, but the District has chosen in some years to levy less than the maximum allowed.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - Since there is a declining industrial property tax base, what contributions does OSU make for City services that are provided to campus (and other state/federal property in the city limits)?

OSU, along with all other state property used for state purposes, is exempt from all property taxes. So when the Hilton was built, on OSU land, there was some talk about it being tax exempt -- not true since it does not provide a governmental (or educational) purpose. In Corvallis, OSU has a significant presence and also a substantial amount of land and value in buildings. In the late 90's OSU had insurance coverage for $800 to $900 million -- it is likely safe to assume the real market value for this land may well be in excess of $1 billion now. In addition to OSU, all City, County, School District, and federal government facilities are exempt from property taxes as long as the property is used for governmental purposes. While not discussed much in the popular press, this is a big issue for county governments where the county has a significant chunk of land tied up in federal or state forest land. For cities, Salem, Eugene, and Corvallis all have significant state/university presence that takes a fair amount of property off the tax rolls. In addition to government, taxes are not levied on churches or synagogues, or on non-profit facilities such as the Boys and Girls Club. In general, the City provides all services to all facilities inside the City limits. About the only exception is that the Police Department does not provide police service to the OSU campus, but they certainly have a fair share of work in the neighborhoods around the campus. The Transit System has built a number of routes designed to get people to and from the campus, and the Fire Department responds to all emergency calls there. The City does not maintain the roads on campus, but has all the responsibility for the roads (and bike paths) that get people to the campus. As for payment from these non-profits: OSU, other governments, and all non-profits pays for water/sewer/storm drain service monthly based on usage. By extension, they all also pay the Transportation Maintenance Fee on the City Services Bill. OSU makes an additional contribution each year to the Transit System for operations and the ASOSU assesses fees to OSU students which are passed on the City to help pay for the late night Beaver Bus program. OSU also provides funding for a portion of one Fire Prevention Officer's time onsite, which is FY16-17 amounts to a payment of $90,000. Beginning in FY 17-18, OSU will be providing $400,000 in funding toward 3.0 FTE Police Officer positions. By using departmental savings from FY 15-16, these three positions will be hired in FY 16-17 so that they can be fully trained in time to provide services in FY 17-18.

Category: Financial Budget
Revenue - What are non-designated revenues?

Also referred to as "non-dedicated," these are the revenues which the City receives without strings attached on their use by other entities, and include property taxes levied for operations, franchise fees, a portion of transient room taxes, plus certain state shared revenues (cigarette and alcohol tax based). Combined, these revenues typically total just 30% of the City’s total revenue stream, but are more than 70% of the revenue for the property tax supported operations. All of the City’s other $60 million in revenue is designated, meaning there is a mandate from another entity (usually state or federal law) that limits what the money can be spent on.

Category: Financial Budget
Sometimes my water smells like chlorine. Why is that?

The Taylor and Rock Creek facilities both treat the water with chlorine. Low doses of chlorine act as a disinfectant protecting you against disease-causing microorganisms in the water. We are required by law to add disinfectant in order to meet state and federal regulatory mandates for safe drinking water. 

If you find the chlorine taste unpleasant, try filling a container with water and keeping it loosely capped in the refrigerator. 

Category: Water Treatment
The City plowed snow into my driveway and onto my sidewalk, when are they going to come back and remove it?

Our goal is to clear the roadway for safe travel. Unfortunately, berming is an inconvenient result of plowing. Adjacent property owners are responsible for clearing the berm to gain access to the roadway. We do not have the available resources to provide this service, and this is one way you can help.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What are some examples of ordinance violations?

A few common example violations include dumping used car oil or washing paint brushes into City storm drains, connecting a sink drain to the City storm system, or dumping litter or yard debris directly in a Corvallis stream. This is, however, not a comprehensive list of violations. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to review the ordinance to learn what personal activities may be affected by this new ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What are the meanings of sharrow markings (two chevrons with a bicycle symbol) on the road?

Sharrows are road markings used to show motorist that people riding bicycles may “take the lane” and helps show the bicycle rider good lane positioning. Use the sharrow marking to guide you where to ride within the lane.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
What do I do if online incident reporting is not right for me?

If your incident is an emergency, call 911. If you need non-emergency assistance, please call 541-766-6924.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What does the ordinance cover?

The ordinance protects all parts of the City stormwater system, which includes City infrastructure, as well as natural features like streams from any pollutant that changes the physical, chemical, or biological properties of the stormwater. (For more information, see section 4.04.020 for a definition of pollutant and storm drainage system). 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What else is Corvallis doing to protect water quality through stormwater pollution prevention?

Since 2004, the City has taken steps to improve water quality and reduce The City is Doing It's Part Preventing Stormwater Pollution stormwater pollution in a variety of ways. We've enacted land development codes that protect waterways from pollution that can occur from urban development and created a robust program to monitor construction activities to ensure best practices. In addition, the City Stormwater Program regularly educates and engages Corvallis residents, students, and businesses in preventing stormwater pollution prevention. For more information, please visit the City Stormwater Program. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What happens if I violate the ordinance?

If the City becomes aware of a violation, the first step taken by the City will be to contact the responsible party and provide information about the issue and the water quality implications. If no action is taken to address the issue, then a formal letter will be sent, as is outlined in section 4.04.090.020 of the proposed ordinance. If sufficient action is still not taken then a fine no less than $100 and no more than $20,000 and/or 30 days in jail may be issued. In some cases, an alternative compensatory action may be substituted for fines and jail time. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
What if I don't know what to do at an arraignment, how to plead or proceed?

The Municipal Court Judge can grant you a continuance for you to get legal advice. You must ask the judge, at the arraignment time set by the officer, to get additional time and to have a new date to appear assigned to you. Neither the Judge nor court staff can give you legal advice.

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What if this happened in another city?

If the incident you would like to report took place outside of the City of Corvallis, please call the police department for that city.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on a state freeway?

 If this took place on a state freeway please call the Oregon State Police Office nearest you.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What if this happened on the Oregon State University campus?

If your incident occurred on the OSU campus, please call 541-737-3010 to file your report.

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a known suspect?

A known suspect is when you, or someone you know, has information that you believe will identify the person(s) who committed the crime.  This could include video surveillance, someone who can identify the suspect, or license plate information for the suspect's vehicle.  If there is a known suspect, please call us at 541-766-6924 so we can investigate the incident.  

Category: Online Police Reporting
What is a violation? What is a misdemeanor?

A violation is a minor infraction in which punishment is limited to a fine only. A misdemeanor is a minor crime in which punishment is limited to imprisonment of up to one year, a fine or both. 
 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is the first appearance before a court to answer to a charge. When you receive a citation, you must enter a plea of either guilty, no contest, or not guilty to the court. This entry of plea is done at arraignment. 

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
What is crack seal?

Crack seal is a hot, sticky, petroleum-based pavement crack and joint sealant. It does not resurface the entire street – it just fills cracks. The sealant forms a long-lasting, resilient seal which is flexible and expandable in varying and extreme pavement temperatures. Crack sealing prevents the invasion of surface water between the layers of asphalt and sub-grade rock, thus preventing premature pavement failures, deterioration and potholes. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
What is the overall purpose of the “Maintaining Public Streets during Snow and Ice Events” policy?

The purpose of this policy is to clarify and describe the City’s snow removal and sanding priorities and the level of service that is intended to be provided by City crews. The City does not guarantee that streets will be free of snow and ice after plowing and/or sanding. Bare, dry pavement should not be expected. The City will attempt to maintain adequate traction for vehicles properly equipped for winter driving conditions.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What is the risk of Cryptosporidium in our water?

Cryptosporidium 

(krip-toe-spor-ID-eum) is a microscopic organism that is naturally present in bodies of water throughout the world. Swallowing these tiny organisms can cause an intestinal illness known as cryptosporidiosis, although some persons infected with Cryptosporidium do not get sick. Symptoms include stomach cramps, upset stomach, and diarrhea. For most healthy people, the illness runs its course in a few weeks without serious consequences. However, for the elderly, young children, or for people with weakened immune systems, the disease can be life threatening. 

Cryptosporidiosis can be transmitted by swallowing contaminated water or food (such as unwashed fruits and vegetables), or by touching your mouth or putting anything in your mouth that has touched the feces of a person or animal with cryptosporidioisis. This includes diapers, farm or yard equipment, and pet waste. Studies have shown that about 1/3 of the population has been recently exposed to this germ, indicating that there are many sources of exposure. 

We have been testing city water for Cryptosporidium since 1994. The results indicate that no Cryptosporidium organisms have been detected. We believe the risk of contracting cryptosporidiosis from city tap water is quite low, however, if you are infected with HIV or have AIDS, are a cancer patient, are taking immunosuppressive drugs after a transplant, or were born with a weakened immune system, we encourage you to consult with your physician. Health officials may suggest that you take additional precautions, such as boiling drinking water for one minute before consuming it. 

Category: Water Treatment
What should I move out of the street during snow and ice removal in my area?

Residents are asked to remove their parked vehicles, boats, and trailers from city streets if possible. The City will not be responsible for vehicles parked on the street that are isolated by snow piles due to plowing operations. 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
What was the impact on the City of the Court decision to uphold Hewlett-Packard’s (HP) appeal of its assessed valuation (AV) for property taxes?

In the summer of 2013, after the City’s FY 13-14 Budget was adopted, the State Department of Revenue filed an appeal of the award made to HP by the Oregon Supreme Court, thereby deferring the requirement to refund about $385,000 (city’s share) in interest until this later appeal is resolved. This adjustment, as well as other refinements for reserves held by the County, reduced the City’s direct portion of monies owed to HP to $1.4 million. This amount was paid in July 2013; additional revenue impacts to the City were monies owed by the Corvallis Rural Fire District ($88,726) and the Corvallis-Benton County Library Service District ($149,421). This $238,000 in payouts has decreased FY 13-14 payments to the City by these entities. The County has indicated that additional holdbacks will be made in FY 14-15 for the interest that is still potentially owed to HP. This situation impacts all General Fund services (i.e. Police, Fire, CD-Planning, Parks & Recreation, Library, Economic Development and Municipal Court), but was somewhat alleviated for future years with the passage of the November 2013 Five-year Operating Levy which provides approximately $600,000 per year in non-designated revenues designed to replace the lost funding for the lower HP valuation. City Council was provided with the linked memos below, as staff continues to work on a resolution of this financial situation. Ultimately, as of August 6, 2015 the Oregon Supreme Court reaffirmed the Tax Court's decision. 

HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome
HP Property Tax Appeal Outcome - Second Memo
Property Tax Assessed Value FY13-14
Benton County Press Release August 2015

 FY 2015 revenue was $378,000 lower (80%) than the FY 2000 receipts which was the highest year of revenue.

Category: Financial Budget
When do you have arraignments?

Arraignments are:

Mondays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

  • 3 p.m. Criminal Arraignments

Thursdays

  • 1:30 p.m. Traffic/Parking Arraignments

Category: Municipal Court Contact Arraignments/Trail
When do you plow?

Plowing will begin when accumulating snow exceeds approximately two (2) inches.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
When do you sand?

Sanding will begin as soon as slick street conditions materialize. Sanding operations will stop if snow accumulations are covering over applied sand, making sanding operations ineffective.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Where can I get a copy of an ordinance?

The City Recorder at City Hall has all ordinances and you may request a copy. There is a 25¢ per page copy fee.

Please contact the City Recorder at (541) 766-6901 for more information. You may also go to the Public Library (645 NW Monroe, Corvallis, Oregon, 97330) where the Library staff can assist you in locating specific ordinances. 

Category: Municipal Court General Information
Who clears the sidewalk in front of my business or residence?

All sidewalks and walkways adjacent to City-owned and maintained property and public parking lots are cleared by the City. Public sidewalks and private parking lots are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner. Sidewalks not cleared within 24 hours after the snow and/or ice event has concluded can be subject to code enforcement actions (Municipal Code 5.04.050, Nuisances affecting public safety). 

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Who should I contact if I notice plants, branches, leaf piles or other obstructions in the bike lane? What if objects block my line of sight?

We look toward our community in assistance for identifying issues like these and have set up an online form so you can quickly report hazards 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Once our team receives the issue you have identified, we quickly take steps on proper mitigation if there is a problem. You can get started by visiting Corvallis Connect, our online service request portal, to report the issue. 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Who will be affected by this ordinance?

The Corvallis storm system connects most of our City to waterways via storm drains. This means that all residents, businesses, and industries could be potentially impacted by this ordinance. 

Category: Stormwater FAQs
Why are city staff releasing water from fire hydrants? Doesn't that waste water?

Technicians routinely flush water mains to keep our drinking water clean by removing rust and sediment that might be trapped in the distribution system. Flushing also allows crews to make sure all the valves and fire hydrants are operating as they should. To help protect the environment, the chlorine is removed from this water before it is discharged into the storm drain system. The chlorine in the water could be harmful to aquatic life, and most storm drains discharge directly into Corvallis’ urban streams.

Category: Water Conservation
Why are some bike lanes painted green?

A green bike lane enhances the visibility of a bicycle lane in places where there is a potential for conflict with motor vehicles. In Corvallis, we add these to bike lanes where automobile traffic crosses a bike lane. The dashed green strip shows a mixing zone where all users must be most cautious.

 

Category: Bicycle Laws and Safety
Why does the snow plow go down the street with the plow up?

There are many reasons for them to be traveling with the plow up. For example, the plow could be traveling back to the shop for repairs or there may not be enough snow on the street to plow.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
Why is the flight path for the Corvallis Airport over the heavily populated area rather than away from it? Is this really something that cannot be changed, or attempted to be changed?

This question comes up each year when the weather gets nicer and people start working outside or keeping their windows open. This approach can’t be changed because it is the all-weather Instrument Landing System (ILS) precision approach to Runway 17, our main runway. Instrument landing systems are one of two types of precision approaches which allow an aircraft to safely land in all types of weather. Usually, they are only found at commercial airports because they cost millions of dollars. Ours was installed in the 1980’s when commercial flights were operating out of Corvallis. It is maintained by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is part of what draws business jets and charter flights into Corvallis, especially in the winter. It is setup on our main runway coming from the north because 70% of the time that is where the prevailing winds are coming from (the south). The safest direction for aircraft to land is into the wind. Aircraft use that approach each day, usually one or two dozen aircraft, including the US Army National Guard helicopters from Salem, the USCG helicopters from Newport and Astoria, FEDEX, UPS, business jets, and our local REACH Air Medical air ambulance. REACH requires this approach for operation out of Corvallis. They use it when returning from ambulance calls at night and in bad weather, and would have to relocate to another airport if the ILS was shutdown. Again, no other runway or direction would work for this approach. While we could ask the FAA to decommission the ILS at Corvallis, they normally require the airport sponsor (City of Corvallis in this case) to repay the FAA for the last 20 years of maintenance and improvements that have been made to that system. This is one of the “Grants and Assurances” we signed as part of our acceptance of FAA grant funds over the years. This would also reduce and possibly eliminate any business or charter aircraft coming into Corvallis, especially in the winter and bad weather months. Why is this approach used during the nice weather when you can see forever? Pilots are required to recertify on this system regularly, and they are not allowed to practice or get this certification training in bad weather.

Category: Airport
Why should we be concerned with water conservation in Corvallis?

Even when the water supply is adequate, conservation is simply a wise use of a precious resources. Conservation can contribute to a healthy environment, reduce your water bill, and ensure an adequate water supply for years. Using water wisely just makes good $ense! 

Category: Water Conservation
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water interferes with the crack-sealing process, so we ask residents not to water lawns, wash cars, or engage in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day their street is crack-sealed. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will access to my street be affected?

You may drive on the street, but on-street parking will be prohibited. Sidewalks will not be closed. Postal, garbage, and recycling services will be notified before work begins, and there should be no or minimal interruption of these services during the work. 

Category: Crack Seal Program
Will you be clearing bike paths?

We will attempt to plow or sand bike lanes on the streets; however, limited time and resources prevent us from plowing or sanding bike paths that are separate from the roadways.

Category: Street Maintenance Snow & Ice
¿Qué es un sospechoso conocido?

Un sospechoso conocido es cuando usted (o alguien presente) conoce a la persona o donde encontrar a la persona que cometió el crimen o el número de la patente del auto donde iba el sospechoso.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué hago si realizar una denuncia en línea no es lo apropiado en mi caso?

Si su incidente es una emergencia, llame al 911. Si no es una emergencia llame al 541-766-6924.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Qué pasa si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal?

Si el incidente ocurre en una Autopista Estatal por favor llame a la Patrulla de Autopistas de más cercana.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
¿Si el incidente ocurre en otra ciudad, puedo utilizar este sistema de denuncia?

 No, si el crimen ocurrió fuera de la ciudad de Corvallis Police Department por favor llame al departamento de policía de la ciudad que corresponda.

Category: Informes Línea de la Policía Preguntas más Frecuentes
Is the City of Corvallis budget in line with other cities?

The budget for Corvallis is comparable to similarly sized cities, though a straight apples-to-apples comparison can be difficult. The City’s comparators include Albany, Bend, Springfield, Tigard, and Medford. In some of those communities, Parks and Recreation, Library, and Fire services may be provided by a separate taxing entity. This can make city-to-city comparisons more difficult. But where comparisons can be made, we line up.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Can we do more with less?

The City’s costs to continue providing existing services grow faster than revenue grows. As a result, the City has been cutting back on costs for a number of years, even as the total budget has grown. The City actively pursues methods for conserving and cutting costs. Significant efforts in recent years have included building solar power stations using grant monies to help offset significant electrical costs, changing to LED street lights as well as moving to LED lighting in buildings. Even with these changes and the cost savings associated with them, other costs are growing faster than revenues.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Should salaries be adjusted downwards? Can we put a hold on raises?

Salary and benefits for most City employees are negotiated with the four labor unions that represent them (Police, Fire, 911 and General Service Employees). The only group not represented by a labor union is management staff and a few confidential employees who are exempt employees.

Negotiations with the labor unions must meet the requirements set forth in the Oregon law, known as the Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act. This law requires us to look at what similar sized comparator agencies are paying in total compensation. In addition, the City has a compensation policy that states the City will be within +/- 5% of the average of our comparators.

The City is unable to decrease salaries or withhold negotiated pay increases without bargaining those changes with the labor unions that represent City staff.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
I pay over $4,000 a year in property taxes. How much goes to Corvallis?

Roughly one-third of your total property tax bill goes to the City of Corvallis. If you are paying $4,000 in property tax, you are paying City taxes of $1,119 for the permanent tax rate, $180 for the local option levy, and $55 for voter-approved debt for a total of $1,354. This is about 34% of the total property taxes you pay.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
With all the new apartments I’m seeing around town, why isn’t there more funding for our services?

All newly developed property is added to the tax rolls at lower than real market value as a result of tax laws in Oregon. Multi-family property added in 2016 has an assigned assessed value of 62% of the real market value, so if you look at an apartment with a $1 million value, the assessed value would be $620,000 and that tax bill for the City’s permanent rate would be $3,166.

As an example, The Retreat at Oak Creek, which was added to the tax rolls with fully developed real market value of $95 million has an assigned assessed value of $58.5 million. The taxes they will pay for the City’s permanent rate total $299,000, not the $485,140 they would have paid if assessed at full market value.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
How are OSU and Samaritan Services contributing to the City’s Budget? How are their property taxes assessed?

Neither OSU nor Samaritan Health Services pays property taxes on their facilities used for their operations. Both pay taxes on parcels used by for-profit operations. For example, the Hilton Hotel parcel is taxed even though it is on OSU property.

However, OSU voluntarily contributes to Transit, Fire Prevention and Police Department staffing.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Have you considered taxing Oregon State University?

Yes. However, state law does not allow it. OSU contributes to Transit Operations, Fire Prevention, and funds three police officers. OSU also pays all required fees (e.g., building permits, transportation maintenance fees, system development charges).

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why not require Oregon State University to create their own Police force or pay Corvallis to Police for them?

OSU uses the Oregon State Police Department for on-campus policing service. The City Police Department provides all policing services off-campus. In 2016, the City and OSU agreed on a cooperative effort and OSU is granting $1.2 million to Corvallis Police over 3 years to support local law enforcement. This is an unprecedented collaboration.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
We spend the bulk of City funds on Police. Is this needed or can we become more automated and efficient?

The City has made significant investments in efficiency automation for the Police department over the years, including investigative technology, online self-reporting of certain allowable offenses, social media and text-to-911 for emergency dispatch. The City implemented e-citations for both Police and Parking with automated download features. In short, the Police Department is a technologically advanced department and currently maximizes allowable public safety technology.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why are the calls for service for the Fire Department going up? Do we charge people for these calls?

Corvallis Fire Department is an ‘all hazard’ department, meaning we provide fire, rescue, emergency planning and prevention services for the City of Corvallis and Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District.

In addition, we provide transport ambulance services for the majority of Benton County and a portion of Linn County (765 square mile area). Also, we provide hazardous materials response in partnership with the Oregon State Fire Marshal, Albany Fire Department and Lebanon Fire District covering Linn, Benton, Lincoln and Polk counties.

Calls for service increase as our population grows and as our demographics change with people getting older. As mobile phones have become commonplace, calls for service have increased. In addition, the Fire Department role has evolved – when people have a problem they don’t know how to handle, they often call the Fire Department. We are often called to assist community members with everything from personal care issues to actual hazard mitigation such as ruptured gas lines.

The Fire Department ambulance service is supported by user fees, and there are a number of cost recovery fees in place for responses such as non-resident motor vehicle crashes; violations of the fire code; out of district responses to ‘un-covered’ areas.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Is the City’s fareless transit system really sustainable?

Fareless Transit was implemented by the City Council to achieve several goals.

One was to increase ridership by creating a barrier-free system, especially for low income residents. This goal has been achieved by a system generating more than 1 million rides a year in a town of 58,735 people.

Another goal was to improve the system’s on-time operation by eliminating the time it took for people to drop fares in the box and obtain transfer tickets. The efficiencies gained in this area have been somewhat offset by the on- and off-boarding of more passengers. However, there have been staff time savings from not having to process the coinage and produce transfer tickets. The Transit Operations Fee has the added benefit of being able to match federal transit operating grants, while fare box revenue cannot. This ensures we are able to use 100% of our federal grant allocation and not leave any federal funding on the table unspent.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Why and how were these streets chosen and prioritized?

Between 2015 and 2018, the City engaged the community through open houses, public hearings, work groups, advisory committees, and a community-wide survey to create the Transportation System Plan (TSP), which was adopted by the City Council in 2018. It was during this process that the low-stress network was identified to improve walking and biking conditions throughout Corvallis. The streets chosen provide an alternative to adjacent, higher volume roadways for those on foot, wheel or mobility device.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why does the City run a parking program, anyway? I should be able to park where I want.

Parking in Corvallis is managed by the City to balance the availability and convenience of public parking in neighborhoods and business districts throughout the community. Public parking is not intended for long-term vehicle storage, nor does any business, neighborhood, or household “own” the public parking spots in front of their property. The Corvallis community is also interested in minimizing vehicle trips to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adjusting the pricing for public parking meters in Corvallis is one of the tools that can help achieve those goals.

Category: Parking
If we don’t have money, why are we funding low income housing which will not provide revenue?

Most of the funding for affordable housing comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), not local funds. The City enacted a new affordable housing Construction Excise Tax in 2016 which is assessed against building permits and not funded by property taxes. By state law, the City can utilize this excise tax revenue to support affordable housing.

Additionally, there is a strong desire for people who work in Corvallis to be able to live here. Without additional affordable housing opportunities, many people who work in Corvallis will continue to live outside the city and commute, adding to street congestion and carbon emissions.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Where does the money I pay in meter fees and citations go?

All fees collected from parking customers stays in the Parking Fund and is used to maintain, operate, and regulate parking facilities. Parking Fund money doesn’t go to pay for police cars or fill potholes or replace streetlights. Rates are adjusted as needed to ensure that the system is used consistent with adopted goals and practices and to ensure that the fees collected cover the costs associated with managing parking for the entire Corvallis community. The City provides a transparent accounting of the Parking Fund each year as part of the annual budget process.

Category: Parking
Will we lose on-street parking?

Removal of on-street parking is not typically part of a Neighborhood Bikeway. However, there may be a small number of locations where parking may need to be restricted. For example, areas adjacent to intersections or where a speed hump is installed.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Could a local gas tax be used to fund streets?

It could. Some communities around Oregon have been successful at implementing a local gas tax. However, there are challenges when one community in an area implements a local gas tax and other nearby communities don’t.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
What about emergency vehicle access?

Emergency vehicle access will not be affected. The Fire and Police Departments review plans for treatments like speed humps and traffic circles to ensure they are designed to maintain emergency vehicle access. By their nature, Neighborhood Bikeways are almost entirely on low volume residential streets, which are not considered backbone emergency response routes for Police and Fire.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are parking meter rates being raised?

Meter rates haven’t been raised since 2008, while costs to maintain the system have increased. The Parking Fund can no longer sustain needed operations without borrowing from the General Fund, which is not sustainable.

Category: Parking
How do meter rates in Corvallis compare to those of other cities?

We completed a parking audit recently and meter rates were compared with Eugene, Hood River, Missoula MT, Salem, and Spokane WA. Corvallis’s current typical hourly rate is $0.50, the new typical hourly rate will be $1.00, and the hourly rate of the comparator cities averages $1.23. We are still below many of our comparator cities in terms of hourly prices.

Category: Parking
What is the City doing to attract new businesses to town? What about locating businesses in the Hewlett-Packard building targeted for demolition?

The City operates the Economic Development Office through an intergovernmental agreement with Benton County. The office is charged with implementing the Economic Development Strategy.

While its focus is primarily assisting existing businesses, the Economic Development Office routinely responds to recruitment leads from the State’s Economic Development Department (Business Oregon), as well as leads from other sources. The Economic Development Office also looks for businesses to fill vacant spaces throughout Benton County, including buildings on the HP Campus. Unfortunately, there just has not been a market for 62,000 square feet of office space in the building mentioned.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will other neighborhood streets see more traffic as a result?

Though proposed treatments are designed to achieve safer, slower speeds on Neighborhood Bikeway routes, we do not expect a significant diversion to nearby streets.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why are citation fees being increased?

Fees for meter and overtime violations (also known as parking tickets) have not been raised since 2003. Similar to meter rates, these fees no longer pay to cover the costs associated with managing public parking for all users, both residents and visitors.

Category: Parking
Why doesn’t the City get out of PERS and move to a defined contribution plan for all new hires? Can the City Manager stop giving PERS benefits?

By Oregon law, the City may not exit the PERS system. Even if an exit was allowed, the City would have to pay its share of the PERS Unfunded Actuarial Liability since that cost is based on benefits already earned that PERS will be required to pay out.

The City Manager does not make any decisions with regard to PERS benefits. The PERS benefit structure is the responsibility of the Oregon Legislature. If you would like to see changes, we recommend you talk with your state legislators or the Governor’s office.

Category: 2018-2019 Budget
Will my street be closed to cars?

No. All streets will remain open to vehicle traffic. Access to homes and businesses will be unaffected.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Are you installing designated bike lanes?

The vast majority of Neighborhood Bikeway streets will have shared roadway markings (also known as “sharrows”) to indicate that the streets are shared by people bicycling and driving. Some routes are on collectors or arterials for short segments and these connections will typically have already-existing bike lanes.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What about speed limits on these streets?

All local streets in Corvallis currently have a speed limit of 25 mph. Traffic calming may achieve lower speeds without changing posted speed limits.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Road Safety Audit: 

Highland / Grant / Alexander 

Staff Response Documents:

NW Highland Drive 

NW Grant Avenue

SE Alexander Avenue

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Western Blvd - 35th St. Safety Evaluation 

35th St. Lighting Analysis

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Road Safety Audit: 

Conifer / Walnut 

Staff Response Documents: 

NE Conifer Boulevard

NE Walnut Boulevard

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.   

Intersection Control Evaluation:

NW 9th Street & Buchanan Avenue 

Staff Response: 

NW 9th & Buchanan Intersection

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below. 

Road Safety Audit: 

NW Garfield Avenue / Appendix

Staff Response: NW Garfield Avenue 

Intersection Control Evaluation: 

NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue

Staff Response: NW Kings Boulevard & Garfield Avenue Intersection 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

Staff Report (January 9, 2025 Council Work Session)

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, they will be made available at the links below.  

Road Safety Audit: <link>

Intersection Control Evaluation: <link>

Staff Response Document: <link>

Category: CIP Project Status template
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.  

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Supporting Documents

As major transportation projects move into the first two years of the 5-year CIP, it is important that project scopes and cost estimates are fully developed in order to appropriately inform the City's biennial budget. This additional project definition is facilitated through preliminary engineering activities that can include road safety audits or intersection control evaluations.  If these efforts are undertaken on a project, links will be added below.

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Will these streets get repaved?

Some segments of Neighborhood Bikeways will see localized repairs or patching. However, due to limited budgets, the priority for major rehabilitation projects is the collector and arterial system. For more information on future resurfacing projects, please visit the Capital Improvement Program’s latest adopted plan. To learn more about how Corvallis streets are assessed and prioritized for repairs visit the Street Maintenance webpage. If you see a small scale repair like a pothole you can report it to the City via Report A Problem (select “Pothole”). City staff will assess the location and determine if it is able to be repaired.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I ride an e-micromobility device on the sidewalk?

No. Oregon State Law prohibits riding e-bikes and e-scooters on the sidewalk.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting (Took place June 27, 2024) 

TAT Meeting Presentation (with graphics)

TAT Comment Responses

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction.  Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project.  Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on.  For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input."  Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards.  An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project.  The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will also be provided below when available. To sign up for notices about upcoming TAT meetings, [ADD HOW TO SIGN UP FOR TAT MEETING NOTICES]. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD (meeting dates/materials will be added here when available) 

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Status template
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
Design

Projects are in the design phase when the scope and budget has been authorized by Council.  During the design phase, staff prepare engineered construction plans and other contract documents necessary to bid the project for construction. Engagement efforts vary during design with emphasis placed on engaging with those properties directly impacted by the project. Direct contact with property owners, general mailings, and neighborhood meetings are types of engagement strategies that the project manager may rely on. For select projects, when design has reached approximately 60%, the City can schedule an opportunity for the broader community to learn more about the project and provide “design-level input." Design-level input on a specific project does not include input on project scope or the City’s general design standards. An example of design-level input would be sharing information with the project manager about a challenge a user experiences transitioning from an on-street bike lane to an off-street multi-use path within the project limits/scope and how that transition may be impacted with the project. The City currently partners with the Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team for meeting facilitation. Meeting dates and meeting materials will be provided below when available. 

Transportation Action Team Meeting: TBD

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

For more information about traffic circles, visit the Traffic Circle FAQ page.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Why is the speed limit changing on Circle Boulevard?

When Circle Boulevard was extended from Dale Drive to Harrison Boulevard, a temporary speed limit was posted by the City knowing an official speed zone investigation would be required by state law. This speed zone investigation was delayed for several years because of the Covid-19 pandemic. After the pandemic when traffic volumes rebounded to more historic levels, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), who regulates speed limit postings statewide, contacted the City to initiate the speed zone investigation process. Like other states, Oregon relies heavily on the measured operating speed of vehicles using the corridor when establishing speed limits. Public perception of speed, or the speed we may want people to drive, are not factors that the State considers when setting speed limits.  Due to the outcome of this recent speed zone investigation, speed limits along this portion of Circle Boulevard must be changed.

Information on speed zones in Oregon can be found here.

Information on speed zone investigation basics can be found here.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Construction

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Reconstruction - Grant Ave
Construction

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Highland Dr / Grant Ave / Alexander Ave
Construction

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Status template
Construction

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal Replacement / Intersection - 9th St & Buchanan Ave
Construction

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Walnut Blvd / Conifer Blvd
Construction

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

SUBSCRIBE

See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction / Intersection - Garfield Ave
Construction

To sign up for regular project updates once construction starts, please click the link below.

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See below for construction updates throughout the project.

 

 

 

Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Kings Blvd & Buchanan Ave
Construction

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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - NW 17th St Bike & Pedestrian Bridge
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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - 26th St & 27th St
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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Traffic Signal - Circle Blvd & Highland Dr
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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Neighborhood Bikeway - Southeast Corvallis (North)
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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing - 34th St / Tyler Ave
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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Division St
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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing 13th St & 11th St
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Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Pedestrian Crossing - 9th St
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Week of September 15, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

  • No work is planned this week.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 8, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • No work is planned for the next few weeks.
  • Waterline work is planned to restart September 25th as preparations are made for the RR crossing on September 29th.
  • 35th Street will be open to all traffic between September 5th thru September 24th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of September 1, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Waterline installation under Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will continue.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled start is 9/29.
    • Waterline testing, servicing and tie-overs of the new line to occur in early October.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • There will be a push to final pave the waterline trench before the rains come. Right now it is looking like that will be happening middle to late October. This will require a return in the spring to grind and final pave the remainder of Western and 35th.
  • Traffic patterns for game day, Saturday, August 30th
    • 35th Street will be closed north of the OSU Student Farm entrance (AKA Oak Creek Center for Urban Horticulture, OSU Apiary)
    • Access to the OSU Student Farm driveway will be two-way traffic on 35th Street from Western Blvd.
    • Both east side and west side sidewalks on 35th Street will be open between Sagebrush and Washington Way.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 9/1 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at the north side of Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be maintained, but there may be changes in whether it is the east or west side sidewalk that is open depending on how the waterline work is sequenced. Ped detours will be clearly marked.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 25, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • Boring and insertion of waterline through casing beneath Oak Creek is complete.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing will be underway this week.
    • RR excavation and bore – Scheduled  for 9/29.
    • Final asphalt trench patch to follow waterline testing and servicing.
  • Resurfacing of Western and 35th
    • Timing for final paving is being evaluated. Given impacts to the schedule due to the delays with obtaining the railroad permitting, it is likely final paving will wait until Spring 2026.  More to come on paving status with next week’s update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/25 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits have been constructed at Oak Creek. The boring will begin Monday.
    • Waterline installation between Oak Creek and the RR crossing to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Resurfacing
    • Will continue on 35th, Western, and the short section of W. Hills once the waterline has been installed, tested and put into service.
    • Paving is anticipated to begin mid to late September. More defined dates on this to come in the next couple of weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/18 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on the east side of 35th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Any changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 18, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

This is the last weekly update for 11th Street. The following work will occur next week and in the coming weeks as specified.

  • Striping around the traffic circle at 11th/Tyler is expected to be completed mid-week.
  • Installation of the speed hump between Taylor and Fillmore will be installed when the paving contractor comes back to complete paving on Western and 35th in mid- September.
  • The re-installation of the bike hoops in front of the Corvallis Bicycle Collective will be occurring this week.
  • Remaining landscape restorations are expected to occur in a few weeks once the weather improves to support seeding.
  • 11th Street will be opened to traffic. Expect there to be some short duration traffic pattern changes when the above-mentioned work occurs.

Week of August 11, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will continue on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits will be under construction at Oak Creek.
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/18
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending RR observer and flagger scheduling
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 8/11 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Deon, Western, West Hills and Ivy will remain open to traffic. Possible lane shift at 15th/Western intersection.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 11, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Grinding and paving will continue 8/11 thru 8/13.
  • Paving limits on 11th are from Van Buren to Fillmore.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to traffic during the day and reopened after working hours. Detours will be in place.

Week of August 4, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Aug 4th 35th St Sketch (click to view) 

Aug 4th Western 26 to 15 Sketch (click to view)

Aug 4th Western Hwy to W Hills Sketch (click to view)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Waterline construction will resume on 35th Street
    • The bore entry and exit pits either side of Oak Creek will take several days to construct
    • Boring and placement of the casing under Oak Creek is expected to start 8/11
    • Waterline installation to follow boring and casing placement.
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Street grinding and paving will be occurring this week at the following locations.
    • Western Blvd – 8/4 to 8/5 between Hwy 34 and West Hills Rd.
    • Western Blvd – 8/6 to 8/7 between 26th and 15th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will finish up at the NW and SW corners of 15th/Western
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street
      • Closed to thru traffic at Oak Creek.
      • 35th St. local access will be permitted to OSU Facilities and residents from the north, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • 35th St. will remain open between Western and Sagebrush from the south, full closure at Oak Creek Bridge
      • Detour will be in place for travel other than local access. The detour will utilize Harrison, 15th and Western. A sketch showing this route is attached.
      • The planned 35th St closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
      • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
      • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
      • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
      • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • Western Blvd
      • 8/4 to 8/5 Western will be closed to traffic from Hwy 34 to West Hills Road. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
      • 8/6 to 8/7 Western will be closed to traffic from 26th to 15th. A detour will be in place that utilizes Hwy 34
    • West Hills Rd
      • 8/4 will be closed to eastbound traffic, but open to west bound traffic. A detour will be in place for eastbound traffic that utilizes Hwy 34.
    • Ivy Pl.
      • 8/4 will be closed at Western. A detour will be in place that utilizes Deon
    • Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of August 4, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) is in progress at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk. These surfaces will be maintained as rock until 8/8 when base lift paving will occur.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to occur 8/11 and 8/12
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • NW corner 15th/Western – remaining sidewalk demo and reconstruction
    • SW corner 15th/Western – pour back sidewalks first part of week
  • Waterline on 35th Street will restart 8/4
    • Oak Creek excavation and bore – 8/4 thru 8/22 (detour will be in place)
    • RR excavation and bore – 8/25 thru 8/29, pending issued permit (detour will be in place)
  • Traffic patterns for the week of 7/28 will include;
    • 35th Street, West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes and lane shifts to accommodate construction.
    • Bikes on roadway will apply.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place at times for the work at Western/15th.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Traffic patterns change for the week of 8/4;
    • 35th will be closed to thru traffic at the Oak Creek bridge for the duration of the waterline work at Oak Creek. 35th will remain open to travel from Western to Sagebrush and from Washington Way to the last private access, north of the bridge.
    • A detour will be in place during the 35th closure. The planned 35th closure and detour will remain in effect at all times, and will not open to travel at the end of the work day.
    • This detour will apply to all emergency vehicles and responders as well, as there is not adequate space within the work zones to accommodate.
    • Traffic patterns will also be impacted by paving expected to start the week of 8/4 on Western Blvd. between the highway and West Hills Road, as well as on Western Blvd. between 26th and 15th.
    • Please advise your delivery services of these traffic changes and impacts ahead of time.
    • On-street bicycle lanes on 35th will be closed to travel. Cyclists will need to use an alternate route.
    • Pedestrian travel will be open on 35th.
    • A sketch showing the changes on 35th and for the changes on Western will be provided with the 8/1 update next week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 28, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Street reconstruction (excavation) will be occurring at the intersections of 11th/Tyler and 11th/Polk.
    • 11th will be closed to thru traffic during the reconstruct excavation / prep activity. Open at end of shift. Intersections will remain rock until base lift paving on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/4 will include
    • Base lift paving at 11th / Polk and 11th / Tyler on August 8th, 2025.
  • The week of 8/11 will include
    • Grinding and paving operations are expected to begin the week of 8/11
    • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.

Week of July 21, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 15th/Western
  • Electrical work on the 15th/Western traffic light will be occurring mid-week.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided in the next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week July 21st will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • West Hills, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • Western Blvd between 26th St. and 15th St. will remain open but may have reduced lanes to accommodate construction.
    • On Wednesday, 7/23, the intersection of Western Blvd and 15th St. will be reduced to one lane in each direction and controlled by 4-way stop. Temporary stop signs will be installed. The traffic signal will be turned off to accommodate electrical upgrades.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 21, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Construction of the traffic circle at 11th and Tyler will be ongoing.
  • 11th Street will remain closed to thru traffic to accommodate the work planned.
  • Street reconstruction at the intersections of Polk/11th and Tyler/11th may get started by the end of the week.

Week of July 14, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Saw cutting will be occurring on Western between Stadium Ave and 15th.
    • Street dig outs will be occurring in Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work and or street dig outs will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when travelling in this location.
    • Flagging control on Western between 26th and 15th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • The new ADA ramps at Stadium/Western intersection will be open and fully accessible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 14, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Work will begin on construction of the Traffic circle located in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.
    • 11th street will be closed to through traffic between Harrison Blvd. and Polk Ave. during working hours.
    • Tyler Ave. will be closed to through traffic between 10th St. and 12th St. during working hours
    • During nonwork hours use extreme caution when maneuvering around the construction zone in the intersection of 11th and Tyler.

Week of July 7, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • 35th/Western
    • Western/Stadium Avenue
    • Sawcutting will be occurring on Western between 26th and 15th.
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of July 7th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic and Western between 26th and 15th will remain open to traffic, however, in both locations, lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will still be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • Flagging control at the intersection of Western and 26th will be in effect at times this week.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of July 7, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 14th.

Week of June 30, 2025 –  35th/Western Improvements

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is scheduled to restart the week of August 4th. More information about traffic impacts will be provided closer to that date.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  30th will include;
    • 35th Street will remain open to traffic, however lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring. Please note that reduced travel lane widths on 35th Street at the south leg of Western/35th intersection will be in place. Please drive slowly and use caution when traveling in this location.
    • West Hills, Western, Ivy and Deon will remain open to traffic.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be in effect and will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 30, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work planned for 11th Street until the week of July 11th.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will be continuing at;
    • Deon/Western
    • Ivy/Western
    • Sagebrush/35th
  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work will begin;
    • 35th/Western
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June  23rd will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • Flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western will be in place at times.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
    • No sketch is provided this week.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 23, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Landscape restorations and cleanup will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 23rd will include;
    • 11th Street will remain open to traffic.
    • Pedestrian detours may still be in place a select location or two.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

Work will start up again this week and will include the following activities;

  • Sidewalk ADA ramp work at Deon/Western and at Ivy/Western and possible work at Sagebrush/35th will be taking place and expected to last a couple of weeks.
  • Waterline work is still on hold. More information provided next update.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • Western will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • 35th will remain open to traffic. Lane shifts and bikes on roadway will be in place to create the work zones needed at the locations where sidewalk ramp work will be occurring.
    • West Hills will remain open to traffic.
    • Ivy Place may be closed at times and a detour to Deon will be established.
    • Deon, south of Western, may be closed at times and a detour to Ivy will be established.
  • Pedestrian travel will be detoured at times. Out of direction pedestrian travel will be minimized to the greatest extent possible.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 16, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs were almost completed last week. They will be finishing up this week.
  • Some landscape restoration may be occurring this week behind and around the new concrete sidewalk.
  • Street paving is not planned until late-July, early-August.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 16th will include;
    • 11th Street will be opening back up to traffic toward the end of this week.
    • Pedestrian detours will be removed once the ADA sidewalk ramps are opened back up to travel.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week. Refer to the June 2nd weekly report for project status.

Week of June 9, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will continue on 11th Street as follows;

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks and street repairs will be finishing up this week.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 9th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted into the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week.

Schedules have been re-evaluated from last week’s update and will start up again as follows.

  • Week of June 16th – ADA work will begin on 35th Street
  • Week of June 30th – A full time closure will begin on 35th Street at Oak Creek Bridge to begin digging and preparations for the waterline boring at the creek. More details on the closure will be provided as we approach this date.
  • Preparations for the railroad crossing will commence following a completed crossing at Oak Creek contingent upon final rail permitting. More detailed information about street closures and detours will be provided for the rail crossings in a few weeks.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of June 2, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Concrete pours for sidewalks will be ongoing.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of June 2nd will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause will be for one more week.

Work is expected to begin again on 35th Street the week of June 2nd. Work will begin on the waterline crossing at Oak Creek. A full closure on 35th Street north of Sagebrush and south of Washington Way will be required to complete this work. The closure will be in place 24/7 from June 2nd through June 20th. Updates and details on this closure will be provided with next Friday’s posting. Local access to the few residents and OSU facilities in this closed section will be coordinated. Emergency access through this closure will be evaluated and communicated with Fire and dispatch.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 26, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be continuing on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp replacements will continue at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 26th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

No work planned for 35th/Western this week as we are still pursuing the necessary railroad right of entry permitting. Estimated pause is still anticipated at 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • All streets around and through the project will be open to normal traffic flow.
    • No sketch this week. All roads will be open as specified.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University.

Week of May 19, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

Work will be starting Monday on 11th Street and will include the following activities.

  • Sidewalk ramp removal and replacement work at the intersections of 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler.
  • Street repairs at select locations will be occurring.
  • Street paving isn’t planned until mid-summer.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 19th will include;
    • 11th Street will be closed to thru traffic between Harrison and Taylor with work focused at 11th/Polk and 11th/Tyler intersections.
    • Local access will be permitted through the work zone. Please use caution and expect some delays.
    • Pedestrian detours will be in place due to the sidewalk closures at 11th/Polk and at 11th/Tyler. Detours will route pedestrian travel to the next block east/west of 11th Street.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.

Week of May 12, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

The work on 35th/Western will be taking a pause starting mid-week and will resume once our contractor has their final railroad right of entry permitting in place. Estimated pause is going to be 2-3 weeks, less than that if permits can be obtained sooner. A project update will be issued next Friday.

  • Temporary paving of the of the remaining trenches will be occurring early next week at two locations.
    • On Deon Drive at Western Blvd.
    • On Sagebrush Drive at 35th Street.
  • General clean-up and opening of all bike lanes and sidewalks will be occurring prior to the pause.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 12th will include;
    • West Hills Road, Western Blvd. and 35th Street will all be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Sagebrush Drive will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Deon Drive will be in place.
    • Deon Drive, south of Western, will be closed for a few hours early in the week to accommodate the trench paving. Signing and detours to Western via Ivy Place will be in place.
  • Emergency access will be maintained during trench paving on Sagebrush and on Deon Drive. No impacts to CTS or Beaver Bus is expected.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of May 12, 2025 – Street Resurfacing (11th Street)

No work on 11th Street is planned for this week; however, work is expected to begin the week of May 19. More detailed information will be provided with next week’s update.

Week of May 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will continue on 35th Street this week.
    • The focus for the week will be to construct the water pipeline on 35th Street, north of Sagebrush Drive, and continue up to the bridge at Oak Creek.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of May 5th will include;
    • West Hills Road will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western Blvd. will remain open under signal control at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Sagebrush Drive will remain open at 35th Street, south, to Western Blvd.
    • 35th Street north-south travel will remain closed to thru traffic between Western and Washington Way during working hours, and will open back up to normal travel at the end of each work day.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western Blvd. to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison Blvd. to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalks.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd 
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 28, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Pipeline installation will be occurring in the 35th/Western intersection and then moving north into 35th Street.
  • Traffic patterns for the week of April 28th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • East-West travel on Western will remain open under signal control or may be flagged at times at the 35th/Western intersection.
    • Vehicles traveling northbound on 35th Street from the  highway will need to either turn left or right at Western Blvd.
    • Detours for the 35th Street closure will be in place during working hours. 35th Street will be opened back up to travel at the end of each working day. Typical work days have been running between 7 am and 4: 30 pm. The contractor has approval to work until 6 pm if needed.
      • The detour for northbound traffic on 35th Street will include Western to 15th to Harrison. The detour for southbound traffic on 35th Street will include Harrison to 15th to Western.
      • On-street bicycle travel will not be permitted through the construction work zones associated with the 35th Street closures. Alternate on-street bicycle routes could include use of Sagebrush Drive, 30th Street or 26th Street for north-south direction of travel.
      • Pedestrian travel will be permitted along 35th Street on the existing sidewalk. The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will remain closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
    • Emergency vehicle access, School Bus access and Beaver Bus access on 35th Street will be maintained the entire week.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service will be maintained on 35th Street to the best of our ability. Notifications regarding detours or closures for the Beaver Bus service can be found at the following link. Beaver Bus Route Changes | Beaver Bus | Transportation Services | Oregon State University

Week of April 21, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Potholing and exploratory work into the intersection of 35th/Western is expected for Thursday and Friday of this week. Our Contractor is preparing to continue with pipeline installation into the intersection and moving north into 35th Street for the week of April 28th.
  • Road dig-outs and repairs will continue on Western Blvd between Ivy Place and the highway Monday thru Wednesday of this week.
  • Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 21st will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • Monday thru Wednesday - A road closure and detour on Western Blvd. between Ivy Pl. and Highway 34 will be in place to allow for the continuation of the road dig-outs discussed above.  Westbound traffic on Western will need to use West Hills Rd. to 53rd St., and eastbound traffic will need to use 35th Street from the highway to get back to Western to avoid this specific closure.
    • Thursday thru Friday - The potholing and exploratory work mentioned above will require flagging at the intersection of 35th/Western. We will be adding signage at the entrances to the Western Building off of 35th to help keep these access points clear.
    • Normal traffic flow will be re-established at the end of each work day throughout the project.
    • 35th Street is slated for closure between Western Blvd and Washington Way starting on Monday, April 28th. This will be an extended closure on 35th Street to accommodate the water pipe installation there. More detailed information regarding the 35th Street closure will be provided with the next update, including how work will progress and how local access will be impacted. Emergency vehicle access on 35th Street will be maintained.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed at times and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. As mentioned above, additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Building clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be modified to account for the detours.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Beaver Bus service may be modified to account for detours and closures. More to come on this with the next weekly update.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

Week of April 14, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will continue along Western and possibly into the intersection of 35th/Western. Work will include laying water service lines to meter boxes, work on fire hydrant legs, asphalt repairs on Western associated with the resurfacing portion of the project, temporary paving on the water trench line and some additional saw cutting. 
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 14th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions, but may be flagged at times.
    • A lane shift and/or lane closure on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place, and single lane east-west travel will be controlled via flagging.  
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western the signal will be turned off and controlled via flagging. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • This first closure at 35th/Western intersection is coming up the week of April 28th.  More detailed information regarding the intersection closure will be provided in the next update.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway.
    • The sidewalk at the NE corner of 35th/Western will be closed to accommodate waterline work there. Pedestrians traveling east and west on Western Blvd. between 30th and 35th Street will need to use the pedestrian detour to the southern sidewalk along Western Blvd.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service. Additional signage will be added to help keep the driveway to the OSU Western Bld. clear when flagging at the intersection is occurring.
  • Corvallis Transit on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

[Pre-Notice] Week of May 19, 2025 - Start of Construction (11th Street)

  • Our Contractor is planning to mobilize and begin work in mid-May on 11th Street. Work is expected to last through mid-June. Our contractor will clean up the area following their month of prep work, and will return in August for the street paving.
  • The work that occurred this past week with the saw cutting was a pre-cursor of the work to come.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
  • Please notify me if you have any specific needs that I should know about.

The next 11th Street update will be distributed a couple of weeks ahead of the work starting, and then every week while work is active in the area.

Week of April 5, 2025 – Waterline Installation (35th/Western)

  • Waterline installation will move out of West Hills Rd and into Western Blvd this week.  Installation will approach the intersection of 35th/Western.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of April 5th will include;
    • West Hills Rd. will be open to traffic in both directions.
    • A lane shift on Western between West Hills Rd and 35th Street will be in place.  East and west travel on Western will be maintained. As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off.  Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
    • Trenching will be crossing Deon St. entrance from Western (north leg) at some point. There will be no access to Western from Deon (north leg) while pipe is being installed. The contractor will reopen Deon St. as quickly as possible. Pipe installation and backfill associated with this closure at Deon should last a few hours. Access from Sagebrush will remain open. NOTE: Fire will be able to access Deon from Western in an emergency.
    • We plan to restore all lanes of travel by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

April 3, 2025 – Special Update (35th/Western)

Pacific Excavation will begin water pipeline installation tomorrow, April 3rd. This is work ahead of schedule and will result in the following traffic impacts;

  • West Hills Road will be closed  between Hanson Street and Western Boulevard for a couple of days for the start of pipe installation.
  • A detour for traffic on West Hills Road will be in place as follows;
    • Eastbound traffic on West Hills road will need to use 53rd Street to Highway 34, and then either Western/35th/26th/15th to get back to Western Boulevard.
    • Westbound traffic on Western Blvd will need to continue on Western Blvd to Highway 34 to 53 Street and then back onto West Hills Rd.
    • Bike and pedestrian travel will still be permitted on West Hills Road. Follow the signing for this.
    • School Bus and Fire access will be maintained on West Hills Road. Our contractor will make the necessary accommodations to keep this area accessible to those needs.
  • Once construction has moved beyond this intersection of West Hills Road and Western Blvd, the detour will no longer be in place.

Week of March 24, 2025 – Start of Construction (35th/Western)

  • Work will be occurring on Western Blvd and West Hills Road, between 35th Street and Hanson Street.
  • Contractor will begin mobilization on Monday, March 24th.
  • Work likely will include surveying, saw cutting, and potholing in preparation for waterline installation.
  • Waterline pipe installation in Western and West Hills is tentatively scheduled to begin the week of March 31st, and will start at Hanson and work easterly toward 35th Street.
  • Traffic control changes for the week of March 24th will include;
    • A lane shift on Western. East and west travel on Western and on West Hills will be maintained. We plan to restore all lanes of travel on Western and West Hills by the end of each working day.
    • Bicycle lanes will be closed and bikes will be moved onto the roadway. Pedestrian travel on the sidewalks will be unchanged.
    • As work approaches the intersection of 35th/Western, the intersection will change to a single lane of travel in each direction. Intersection control will change to a four way stop. Temporary stop signs will be put in place and the signal will be turned off. Traffic signal control will be re-established at the end of each work day.
  • Access to driveways will be maintained during this time as will access for garbage and mail service.
  • Corvallis Transit on 35th and on Western will be maintained during this time, but may result in temporary stop closures.  Changes to CTS stops will be posted at the physical location and will be noted on the City’s website. https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/cts
  • Typical work hours for the project will run from 7 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
Category: CIP Project Dropdowns - Street Resurfacing & Reconstruction - Western / 35th / 11th
What is a TSAP?

A TSAP is a document that reviews transportation-related crashes involving vehicles, pedestrians, or bicycles to find trends and identify strategies to reduce crashes throughout a city. TSAPs are comprehensive safety plans aimed at reducing and eliminating serious injury and fatal crashes, and use data analysis to characterize roadway safety problems and strengthen a community’s approach through projects and strategies that address the most significant safety risks.

The TSAP developed through this process will serve as a foundation for future transportation safety projects and initiatives, helping the City of Corvallis identify priorities and secure funding to implement solutions over time. It is important to understand that the benefits of the plan will be realized incrementally, and the planning process itself is a critical step. While the adoption of the TSAP is a milestone, it is not an endpoint; successful implementation will depend on available funding and prioritizing efforts to address the most critical safety needs first.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
What is slurry seal?

Slurry seal is a petroleum-based emulsion product mixed with fine aggregate rock to provide a new surface to an existing asphalt street. It slows down aging and significantly reduces vehicle road noise. 

Using slurry in conjunction with a crack seal program provides the most cost-effective method to prevent premature aging. First, sealant is applied to any cracks in the street to prevent water from entering the sub-base and causing further deterioration. Then a layer of slurry is applied. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
What vehicle movements are being restricted at Tyler Avenue and 2nd Street?

All left turns will be prohibited as well as straight through movement on Tyler Avenue. Vehicles will still have the ability to make right turns into, and from, Tyler Avenue.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why is a traffic circle proposed at 11th Street and Tyler Avenue?

11th Street and Tyler Avenue is the intersection of two Neighborhood Bikeways, where heavier than usual bike traffic occurs. A traffic circle will facilitate continuous movement for both cyclists and motorists through the intersection while keeping speeds reasonable. It also provides passive traffic control and discourages cut through traffic in the neighborhood.

Category: Traffic Circles
Why is ODOT providing the speed zone investigation? Does the City have any control?

Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.Until recently, ODOT has been the sole authority authorized under state law to conduct speed zone investigations and set speed limits based on the outcome of these investigations. In recent years, the Oregon legislature amended the law to allow ODOT to delegate the authority to incorporated cities. Corvallis is not staffed to take on this responsibility and therefore continues to rely on ODOT.  Because the setting of speed limits is so highly regulated, the outcome of speed zone investigations, whether conducted by ODOT or the City, would produce the same results. The change in law only provides an option for cities to handle some of this work themselves, it does not provide for additional influence or control over the outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Will a shared e-scooter or bikeshare program be coming to Corvallis?

Oregon State University launched a one-year Shared Micromobility Pilot Project in August 2024. Current City Municipal Code prohibits shared micromobility to be parked in the public right-of-way, including on the sidewalk, in the street, or in a park strip (the space between the street and the sidewalk). Shared micromobility is allowed to travel on City streets, within the service boundary, and to be parked in designated areas on private property.

If you see a shared scooter or bicycle that is parked in the public right-of-way, please report it to hello@veoride.com. Please include the location, vehicle ID number and mention OSU in your email.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I adopt a segment of path that is not identified on the map?

If it is a city-owned paved path, we’ll consider requests. However, if the path is maintained by ODOT, Benton County or a private entity, it is beyond the scope of the City’s program. The City also has an Adopt-A-Park Program facilitated by the Parks & Recreation department that includes unpaved trails. For information about that program, visit: https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/parksrec/page/parks-recreation-volunteer...

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Do I need a license or insurance to operate an e-micromobility device?

No insurance, license or registration is required.

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Do the search results include the contents of PDFs and other documents?

Yes.  The website indexes web pages as well as PDFs, Microsoft Office documents, and text documents.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
How large of a bike will fit in the cargo bike locker stalls?

Four of the locker stalls will fit a bicycle up to 87” in length. The locker doors are 45” tall and 30.75” wide.

Category: Bike Lockers
Is it safe?

When the slurry is dry, it is safe. When it is first applied, the slurry is in a liquid form consisting of asphalt and rock. Because liquid asphalt is potentially hazardous to health and is very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings, please keep children from playing near the street until the slurry material dries. Pets should be kept from running free during the slurry application for their safety. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Registering to Vote

To be a registered voter, you must be 18 years of age on the date of the next election, a resident of the State of Oregon (and the City of Corvallis for local measures and candidates), and a citizen of the United States.

If you have not been registered to vote previously in the State, you must file 20 days prior to the next election date. If you have voted previously within the state, you need to check with Benton County Elections and you may be eligible to vote immediately. All prospective voters register with Benton County.

Category: Elections
What is a Home Energy Score?

A Home Energy Score is a report created by a certified home energy assessor that provides information on estimated home energy use, associated costs, and provides options to cost-effectively improve your home’s energy efficiency. Each Home Energy Score is shown on a simple one-to-ten scale, where a ten represents the most efficient homes. See a sample Home Energy Score report here. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Provider?

A person who furnishes temporary overnight lodging is considered a lodging provider. Lodging facilities includes any hotel, motel, inn, condominium, house, cabin, apartment, public or private dormitory, fraternity, sorority, public or private club, space in a mobile home or trailer park, tent camping locations, or similar structures or spaces or portions thereof so occupied; provided such occupancy is for less than a 30-day period.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the Rental Housing Fee?

The Rental Housing Fee was created in 1999 in response to the increasing number of rentals in Corvallis. The fee is used is to improve housing standards through education and assistance.  The objectives  are to: (1) Assist community members in finding the rental related resources; (2) Educate through partnerships and outreach, to increase knowledge about fair housing regulations, Landlord / Tenant law, and the Corvallis Livability; (3) Inform by collecting data to improve the City’s understanding of local rental housing trends.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What makes this traffic circle different than the circle that was removed at 10th Street and Grant Avenue years ago?

10th Street and Grant Avenue are both classified as collector streets with marked vehicle, bike, and parking lanes. Collector streets have higher volumes of vehicles traveling through the intersection compared to the intersection of two local streets, such as 11th Street and Tyler Avenue. This intersection, compared to 10th Street and Grant Avenue, shows roughly 1/6th the amount of vehicle throughput, making a traffic circle an appropriate treatment. Neighborhood traffic circles already exist within our community where two local streets intersect, such as at 11th Street and C Avenue.

Category: Traffic Circles
What speeds are changing?

The speed zone investigation for Circle Boulevard was conducted by ODOT between Kings Boulevard and Harrison Boulevard. Based on the outcome of the investigation, ODOT is requiring several changes to speed limits along this corridor. The existing and new speed limits for this portion of Circle are:

 

Segment

Existing Speed Posting

New Speed Posting

Kings to Lantana

25 / 30 MPH

25 MPH

Lantana to Dale

25 MPH

30 MPH

Dale to Harrison

25 MPH

35 MPH

 

A copy of the ODOT’s Speed Zone Order and Speed Investigation Report can be reviewed by clicking on the links provided. To reiterate, public input is not considered under the law as part of speed investigations and does not affect their outcome.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Where are the bike racks located?

The bike racks are located on the north side of the Public Works compound, at 1245 NE 3rd St.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where can I dispose of unused, unwanted, and/or expired medication?

To find nearby locations visit one of the following websites:

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office also organizes an event every April. Click below for more info. 

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Why are vehicle movements at 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue being restricted?

Tyler Avenue is designated as a Neighborhood Bikeway and is currently being constructed. The intersection of 2nd Street and Tyler Avenue is difficult to cross for people walking and biking due to the street often being used as a cut through for vehicles traveling through town. The installation of a median island will reduce cut through traffic and vehicle volumes on residential streets, as well as provide a safe space for people walking and biking to stop midway through the intersection. It will also reduce conflicts between turning vehicles, creating a safer intersection for all.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Why are we using ranked choice voting?

After Benton County’s successful use of ranked choice voting, in 2022 the City adopted the ranked choice voting method for elections for Mayor and City Council races with three or more candidates and for advisory questions.

 

 

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What properties are required to register?

All residential rental properties are required to register. A residential rental property is considered a property with one or more dwelling units that generates rental income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I register and update my rental property information with the City?

Visit www.corvallisoregon.gov/RHPupdate to register or update your rental property information or to request a Section 8 fee waiver. Please note: Failure to register a rental property can result in up to a $1000 fine per rental unit.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Can I reserve a locker in advance or check online for availability?

A reservation feature is not currently available, but you can view the map on the Movatic App to see continually refreshed openings.

Category: Bike Lockers
Can the City prevent changes in the posted speed limit?

The City does not have the ability to change the outcome of the speed zone investigation. ODOT conducted the study per the requirements of state law which considers actual measured speeds when establishing posted speeds. However, in conjunction with ODOT performing the investigation, the City reviewed existing signs and striping on this corridor. The City is planning to implement several changes to coincide with the new speed limit signage in order to mitigate some of the concerns surrounding changes to posted speeds. When the City installs the new speed limit signs, we will also provide the following enhancements:

  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Lantana Drive.
  • New pedestrian crossing signs at the existing marked crosswalk at Duniway Drive.
  • A new marked crosswalk and pedestrian crossing signs at Dale Drive.
  • New advisory speed signs added to the existing speed bump signage. Advisory speed signs will inform drivers that a speed lower than the legal limit is recommended as vehicles approach the bumps.
  • A new radar speed feedback sign addressing northbound traffic as it transitions from the 35 MPH to the 30 MPH posted speed south of Witham Hill Drive
Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Does my medication need to be in its original container?

No. It can be in a sealed bag.

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I mark my ballot with ranked choice voting?

Voters mark their ballots in order of preference – 1st choice, 2nd choice, 3rd choice.

  • Use blue or black pen.
  • Fill in the ovals next to the candidates of your choice.
  • Make only one choice per column.
  • Do not skip columns.
  • You may rank as few candidates as you would like.
  • You may rank up to three candidates.

Voting instructions from Benton County.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How is a Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) different from a Transportation System Plan (TSP)?

A Transportation Safety Action Plan (TSAP) and a Transportation System Plan (TSP) work together to improve how people get around safely and efficiently. The TSP sets broad safety priorities within the context of the overall transportation system—like roads, sidewalks, and bike paths—planning for growth and future needs. The TSAP builds on these priorities by diving deeper into safety issues, using data-driven methods and different metrics to identify safety problems and recommend targeted solutions. By focusing on crash prevention and reducing serious injuries or fatalities, the TSAP complements the TSP to ensure a comprehensive approach to transportation safety. Together, they create a safer and more effective system for everyone.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
If I search for a phrase (e.g. alarm permit), will the results only show exact matches?

No.  By default, the search results will show matches for any word within the phrase.  In this example, you would receive results for all web pages and documents that contained either the word alarm or the word permit or both.

In order to search on an exact phrase, enclose your search phrase in quotations.  The search results for "alarm permit" will show matches for that exact phrase.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Initiative and Referendum Information

The initiative process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 15% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is generally initiated by citizens. Examples include the measure to allow smoking in bars, the recall of an elected City official or a Charter amendment.

The referendum process, which requires collection of signatures equaling 10% of the votes cast in the last mayoral election, is used to refer legislation adopted by the governing body to a direct vote. Corvallis City Charter, Chapter 6, Section 32  

Initiatives and referenda are only permitted in May and November elections. House Bill 2957, passed at the 2015 Regular Session

Category: Elections
Is there a Rental Housing fee?

Yes. An annual fee is assessed for each rental unit based on Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065. The fee increases by one dollar every odd year. Property owners who receive partial or full payment through a Section 8 voucher may request a fee waiver.

The fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What are the benefits of a Home Energy Score?

A home energy score is an informational tool that provides potential home buyers with knowledge about how energy efficient a home is. Unlike getting a sample utility bill for that home, which measures individual behavior as much as efficiency, a home energy score more accurately represents how much energy will be lost or retained when a resident heats or cools the home.  There is also research that suggests that mandatory energy usage disclosure policies incentivize homeowners to invest in energy efficiency upgrades in their homes. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is a Lodging Intermediary?

A lodging intermediary is a person, other than a provider, that facilitates the retail sale and charges for the occupancy of short term lodging. Lodging intermediaries include, but are not limited to, online travel companies, travel agents, and tour outfitter companies (such as Airbnb or Expedia). 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the purpose of a traffic circle?

Traffic circles are effective at reducing crashes at intersections because there are fewer conflict points. They also reduce speeds at the intersection and multiple traffic circles can help reduce speeds along an entire corridor.

Category: Traffic Circles
What Lodging Intermediaries are registered with the City?
  • AIRBNB, INC
  • EGENCIA, LLC
  • FERNWOOD CIRCLE
  • HOTEL TONIGHT
  • HOTELS.COM, LP
  • HOTWIRE, INC
  • NAT COR HOUSING
  • ORBITZ, LLC
  • PRICELINE.COM
  • TRAVELSCAPE, LLC
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
When can I pickup/return the racks?

The Public Works compound is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Borrowers can pick up and return racks only during open hours.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
Where and when can I pick up equipment?

Equipment can be picked up from the Public Works admin office, at 1245 NE 3rd St, Monday - Friday, between 8 am and 5 pm. Pickup should be arranged ahead of time with the Program Coordinator.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
Who is required to get a Home Energy Score?

As currently proposed, if your home is within the Corvallis city limits and you are publicly listing or advertising your home for sale in any manner, you will need to get a Home Energy Score and Report before listing it. Common ways people advertise a home for sale include online listings, posters, yard signs and ads in print publications. Some homeowners are exempted from getting a Home Energy Score. Please see below for examples of exemptions. 

If you are selling your home privately between two parties and the home is never publicly advertised for sale, then the requirements do NOT apply.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for paying the lodging tax?

For the privilege of occupancy in any lodging, the occupant shall pay the Lodging Tax.

The Lodging Tax Collector shall remit the Lodging Tax for the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and State of Oregon to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will access to my street be affected?

During the slurry seal application, access to your street will be interrupted for a maximum of ten (10) hours — for one day only — unless the contractor is delayed due to equipment failure or rainy conditions. You may not park or drive on the street from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The post office, garbage service, and 911 emergency dispatch will be notified before work begins. We do not expect any interruption of mail delivery, garbage collection or emergency services. 

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will there be any impacts to parking?

One parking stall will be removed at the southwest corner of 4th Street and Harrison Boulevard. This vehicle space is part of a realignment of the street with the removal of the concrete bulb out and trees, providing a straight path for automobiles traveling along Harrison Boulevard. No other parking along Harrison Boulevard will be affected. Work on Tyler Avenue is limited to the corners of the intersections, where parking is already prohibited.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Is the Rental Housing Program fee pro-rated?

The RHP fee is a flat fee charged annually and is not pro-rated. A rule of thumb for landlords is, if the landlord anticipates they will collect rent for a unit any time during the year, they are subject to the full RHP fee.

Category: Rental Housing Program
Are the existing speed bumps being removed?

No. The existing speed bumps will remain in place and advisory speed signs will be added informing drivers that a lower speed is recommended around speed bumps compared to the new overall posted speed.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
Are there any incentive programs for buying an e-micromobility device?

There are currently no incentives available for electric mobility devices open in Corvallis/Benton County. However, there are funds available for other neighboring communities and states. Keep apprised of the revolving door of funding by finding a website that tracks this information. We like this one from RideReview. 

Category: E-Micromobility Devices
Can I exclude a word from a search (e.g. all pages that have the word "alarm" but not the word "permit"?

Yes.   You can exclude words by using the minus sign (-).   In order to find the results of all pages that have alarm in the result but not permit, you would search for alarm -permit.

Category: Search Tips and Tricks
Does my vote still count if I rank only one or only two candidates?

Yes, your vote will still count if you rank only one or only two candidates. However, your ballot has more power if you rank all three choices. If you choose not to, your ranked vote may not be counted in later rounds if your top candidate(s) are eliminated and the lower choice position(s) are left blank.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I dispose of medicine discretely?

You may mark out your name or any other identifiable information

Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
How do I transport the racks by bike?

Step 1: Place one of the base racks with a coupler onto the bike trailer, making sure that the rack is centered. Stack up to 3 additional racks (without couplers) on top.

Step 2: Affix the hitch to a rear bike rack. The Corvallis Sustainability Coalition’s Transportation Action Team can provide hitches upon request.

Step 3: Attach the coupler to the hitch.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a bicycle or motor vehicle?
  1. Slow your speed as you approach the intersection. 15mph is ideal.
  2. Stop in advance of the sidewalk if pedestrians are crossing.
  3. Yield to vehicles that arrive first at the intersection.
    Yield to vehicles on the right if arriving at the same time.
  4. Keep to the right and travel around the traffic circle in a counterclockwise direction.

Traffic circle navigation

Category: Traffic Circles
Political Action Committees

Political Action Committees (PACs) are formed for both candidates and measures; they can be either in support of or opposition to the candidate or measure. PACs must be formed and registered with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division before any contributions are accepted or monies expended.  Once the election is over and all monies are accounted for, PACs should be discontinued. Please visit the Secretary of State Political Action Committee page for more information.

Category: Elections
What can I do to reduce my exposure to PFAS? 

Small changes can reduce you and your family’s exposure to PFAS chemicals. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to PFAS, but there are ways to limit it. For example: avoid re-heating foods in fast food packaging and take-out containers; look for take-out food packaging that is certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI); replace non-stick cookware with alternatives that don’t contain PFAS; look for “PFAS-Free” when buying waterproof or stain-resistant items, and dental floss, cosmetics, or other personal care products; and choose household cleaning product with EPA Safer Choice, UL Eco-Logo, or Green Seal labels. 

Category: PFAS
What equipment is available for checkout?
  • Reflective vest (10)
  • Trash grabbers (11)
  • Work gloves (5)
  • Limb loppers (3)
  • Pruners (2)
  • Rakes (2)
  • Shovel (1)
  • Standard Broom (1)
  • Push Broom (1)
Category: Adopt-A-Path
What items can I leave in a bike locker?

In addition to your bike, you can store gear like a helmet, bags, bike tools, bike clothing and shoes. 

Category: Bike Lockers
What rental units are subject to the RHP annual fee?

Any residential rental unit within Corvallis city limits is subject to the fee. There are two exemptions, a landlord may request a fee waiver if they accept Section 8 (staff confirms this before the fee is waived) or if the rental unit has a deed restriction that requires the unit to be rented to low income.

Category: Rental Housing Program
What would a Home Energy Score Ordinance mean for homeowners in Corvallis?

A Home Energy Score Ordinance would require homeowners to get a home energy score from a certified home energy assessor before selling their home, if the home is going to be publicly advertised for sale.

Category: Home Energy Score
Who is responsible for collecting the lodging tax?

Transient lodging providers and transient lodging intermediaries must collect and remit the tax. Under the law, whoever collects payment for occupancy is responsible for collecting and remitting the tax as the Lodging Tax Collector.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?

Water will damage both the appearance and sealing capabilities of the slurry. Please refrain from watering lawns, washing cars, or engaging in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day your street is slurry-sealed.

Category: Slurry Seal Program
Will street trees be removed as part of this project?

Yes. A total of 13 existing street trees will be removed along the north side of Harrison and corners of 3rd and 4th streets. All other trees within the project limit will be protected. The City of Corvallis has collaborated with the ODOT project team, and landscape architect, to mitigate the removal of the trees with project landscaping and tree replacement with 13, Red Rage Tupelo trees. 

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
Are there any prohibited medicines?

Yes. These items are prohibited:

  • No sharps
  • No illicit drugs
  • No herbal remedies
  • No vitamins or supplements
  • No personal care products
  • No medical devices
  • No batteries
  • No mercury-containing thermometers
  • No pet pesticide products
  • No animal medicines
  • No biologics
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Campaign Finance

Political Action Committees (PACs) file contribution and expense reports with the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Division on an established schedule. 

If candidates act as their own Treasurers and expect to spend or receive less than $750 during the entire calendar year, reports do not need to be filed. If candidates subsequently exceed that amount, reports do need to be filed.

Please visit the Secretary of State Campaign Finance page and review the Campaign Finance Quick Guide for instructions and a schedule of filing deadlines.

Category: Elections
Does my vote count if I vote for the same candidate three times?

Yes, your vote will still count, but it will not help your candidate's chances of winning. If a single candidate is selected for all three choices, it will be tallied as if you only ranked a first-choice candidate.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How far off of the path am I responsible for?

You are responsible for cleaning up the 3 feet adjacent to the path. No trespassing on private property is allowed.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
How is the TSAP funded?

The TSAP is primarily funded through the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) federal grant program, administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Corvallis was awarded $664,000 for this initiative with the City contributing a required match of $110,000 plus $56,000 in in-kind support. This will build off of the strong foundation set in the 2019 TSP planning effort. This alignment with past planning efforts creates a unique opportunity for Corvallis to fill existing safety related gaps and advance the City’s transportation safety objectives through a data-driven, equity-oriented approach.

Category: Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Project
How should I navigate a traffic circle as a pedestrian?
  • Watch for incoming vehicles.
  • Wait until traffic yields to you when crossing.
  • Do not cross to the middle of the circle.
Category: Traffic Circles
What are the dimensions of the racks?

Length: 10’, Width: 44”, Height: 36”

Weight: 65 pounds

A minimum of 4 feet of space between the racks is recommended for comfortable maneuvering of bicycles.

Category: Portable Bike Racks
What can I do to reduce my exposure to phthalates?

Small changes at home can reduce your exposure to phthalates. We may not be able to eliminate our exposure to phthalates, but you can try to reduce it. For example: microwave and store foods and liquids in glass containers. Avoid plastic food containers and plastic wrap with the Recycling Label #3 on it. Steer clear of the words “fragrance,” “perfume,” or “parfum” in their ingredients. Seek out phthalate-free cosmetics found in the Skin Deep® product clearinghouse. Look for products with EPA Safer Choice, Green Seal, and Eco Logo certification labels that are phthalate-free. These are safer choices!

Category: PFAS
What happens if I exceed the maximum rental time on the locker?

If you exceed the maximum rental time of 7 days, the rental automatically ends and the door is locked (with everything inside). In order to retrieve your bike and any items in the locker, you will need to contact us.

Category: Bike Lockers
What if my home gets a low score?

That's fine. A Home Energy Score is simply an informational tool for property owners. There is no "passing" or "failing" a home energy score and there are no requirements that go along with a score. Your report will show you or any future property owners where there are opportunities for increased energy efficiency. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What is the definition of a "rental unit"?

The term “unit” is the equivalent to the number of individual leases held by a tenant or tenants. For example, if a five bedroom house is rented on a single agreement, it is one unit. If the same house is rented on 5 separate agreements, it is five units.  

Category: Rental Housing Program
What is the expected completion date?

The project will go through summer 2025.

Category: ODOT Harrison Boulevard & Tyler Avenue Project
When will the new speed zone signage and enhancements be installed?

The work will be completed later this year as weather and staffing allow.

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What else can you do?
  • Only buy enough medication that you can use before it expires.
  • If you know a friend who uses the same over-the-counter medication, consider combining purchases.
  • Ask your pharmacist if the drugs will become dangerous after expiration. Some drugs lose some potency, but can still provide some benefits.
Category: Drug Take-Back Locations
Can I give multiple candidates the same ranking?

No. If multiple candidates are chosen for the same ranking, the voter’s intent cannot be determined, and the ballot will not be considered.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Can I rent a locker without a smartphone?

Unfortunately, there is no way to rent a locker without a smartphone.

Category: Bike Lockers
City of Corvallis Campaign Sign Regulations

Political signs shall be erected and maintained entirely on private property with the consent of the occupant of the premises.

No signs are permitted on public property, including rights-of-way, streets, boulevards, bridges, rights-of-way to bridges and streets, medians, parks, planting strips in front of parks, and any other public property.

The area between the sidewalk and the street is not private property; it is a public right-of-way and signs are not allowed.

Political signs shall not be erected prior to 60 days from the applicable election and shall be removed within 15 days after the election.

Corvallis Land Development Code Sections 4.7.50 and 4.7.70

Category: Elections
How do I learn if racial restrictive covenants appear in my property's deed and CCRs?

The documents you signed when you purchased your home will include the deed and CCRs. A close review of these documents will reveal whether racial restrictive covenants were applied to your property. Note that the restrictions are often embedded and may be limited to a single sentence or short paragraph.  

If you are not able to locate the documents, you can obtain a copy of the deed from the Benton County Records & Election Department or by contacting a title company. A fee may apply.

Benton County Records & Election Department

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
How do I signal at a traffic circle?

A traffic circle is similar to an intersection with signals in which you need to signal the direction in which you are going to take. When turning right, you need to signal right, when going straight you do not signal, and when turning left or doing a U-turn you signal left. Whenever you exit a traffic circle you need to signal right to show you are exiting. Cyclists should use hand signals.

Category: Traffic Circles
If my home receives a low score, will it be harder to sell?

Low Home Energy Scores won't necessarily impact your ability to sell your home. Energy performance is just one of many factors people consider when buying a home. The information from a score helps both a seller and buyer understand the opportunities to improve energy efficiency and lower utility costs. It also allows potential buyers to understand how much monthly utility costs will be.

Category: Home Energy Score
Only 6 PFAS are required to be tested in drinking water according to the EPA. What about the others?

It should be noted that testing for PFAS compounds is currently limited. The City is testing for 29 PFAS compounds, including the six  compounds that the EPA is going to be regulating in drinking water.  The City is monitoring advancements in laboratory capabilities and will expand its PFAS compound testing as the industry shifts with improved analysis methodologies over time.

Category: PFAS
What about future speed zone investigations?

The City of Corvallis has been awarded a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant from the State of Oregon.  In addition to developing a transportation safety action plan, this funding will be used to produce a speed limit investigation framework.  This framework will include guidance and criteria that will be used by the City to guide future requests to ODOT for speed zone investigations.  One likely candidate is the Circle Boulevard corridor extending east of Kings where it is anticipated that a study may result in a reduction in the posted speed limit consistent with the reduction being implemented west of Kings.   

Category: Circle Boulevard Speed Limit Changes
What do I do with the trash that is collected?

If it is a large amount of trash, you can arrange a pickup by City staff and place the bagged trash by the side of the path at a designated location. Otherwise, please bring the trash bags back to Public Works at the time of your equipment return.

Category: Adopt-A-Path
What is the amount of the tax?

In the City of Corvallis, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 9 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.

In Benton County, the tax for the privilege of occupancy in any lodging is 3 percent of the total retail price.  This includes all charges and fees other than taxes.  For Benton County, there is an administrative fee reimbursement of 5 percent of the tax due.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is the mechanism that allows the City to charge a fee for rental properties?

The Rental Housing fee is established in Municipal Code Section 8.03.300.065.  The code states the annual fee will increase by $1 every odd numbered year. 

Category: Rental Housing Program
Does anyone qualify for an exemption from a Home Energy Score requirement?

As currently proposed, under some circumstances, a homeowner may qualify for an exemption from the Home Energy Score requirement. As a reminder, the Corvallis Home Energy Score ordinance is still a draft and has not been finalized. The following are examples of exemptions in the proposed ordinance. This may not be the full or final list. Some exemptions may be applicable for properties sold under the following circumstances:

  • Transfer of title due to inheritance
  • Involuntary transfer of title resulting from default on an obligation secured by real property 
  • Title change due to marriage or divorce
  • Condemnation of the property
  • Other involuntary changes of title 
  • Certain situations of undue hardship for the seller
Category: Home Energy Score
How do I appeal my RHP late penalty fee?

Residential rental properties within the City of Corvallis are assessed an annual Rental Housing fee. The fee is assessed on a per unit basis. Account balances that become 91 days old and 61 days past due are considered delinquent and are assessed a penalty fee of $100 per unit.

A property owner may appeal the penalty fee. Appeals are considered on a case-by-case basis. To appeal the penalty fee, please follow the directions below:

  • If your total statement is $400 or less, contact the City Finance Department by phone (541-766-6990) or by email.
  • If your total statement is $401 or more, submit your request to Housing and Neighborhood Services (HNS) Division here. A

  

 

Category: Rental Housing Program
How do I vote for a write-in candidate?

You may use the Write-In space to enter a candidate’s name that is not on the ballot and fill in an oval to rank your choice.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How often does the City of Corvallis test for PFAS?

Water systems have five years to comply with the EPA rule (see EPA Rule FAQ). The City of Corvallis does the following:  

  • Drinking water: The City of Corvallis did voluntary PFAS and phthalates testing in drinking water twice in 2023 and will continue to test twice a year in 2024. PFAS and phthalates have not been detected in Corvallis drinking water. The official PFAS and phthalates tests required by the EPA will occur sometime in the Fall of 2024.

 

  • Wastewater: The City tested wastewater for PFAS and phthalates four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024. The City also tested biosolids from the wastewater treatment plant four times in 2023 and will continue to do so in 2024, to further investigate sources and levels PFAS.
Category: PFAS
What charges and fees are taxable?

Gross lodging receipts are all amounts received, including all non-optional fees, other than taxes that are paid for lodging in Oregon. Rent includes all fees and assessments based on the number of occupants, human and pets (including but not limited to cleaning, pet, or smoking fees) for which payment is not optional to the occupant. If the operator offers a lodging package that includes something that is not associated with the actual lodging or is provided by a third party, the rent is the price of the package less the cost of the non-lodging portion of the package.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What happens if an emergency vehicle comes through the traffic circle?

Do not stop inside the traffic circle. If you have not yet entered the traffic circle, pull to the right and let the emergency vehicles pass you. If you are in the traffic circle, exit as normal, then pull to the right and let the emergency vehicle pass you.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the process to remove discriminatory restrictions?

The laws passed in 2018 aim to ease the removal of discriminatory restrictions from property records.  Requests are submitted to the State's area Circuit Court using the procedure detailed in ORS 93.274. Efforts are underway to refine this process and our website will be updated as information becomes available. Please note this is not a City process. All inquiries should be directed to the Benton County Circuit Court.

Benton County Circuit Court

Category: Discriminatory Covenants
Are all cleaning fees taxable?

It depends on the nature of the charge. If the fee is non-refundable, it is part of what the guest pays for occupancy and is therefore subject to Lodging Tax. Conversely, if the cleaning fee is fully refundable or withheld only for specific damages, it is not subject to Lodging Tax..

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I slow traffic in my neighborhood?

It Starts with You

  • Set the pace! Drive the speed limit. A National Highway Safety Council survey found 70% of drivers acknowledge they speed themselves.
  • Utilize on-street parking. A narrow street can slow traffic. However, when possible please also be mindful of moving your vehicle on scheduled street sweeping days for your area. Learn more about sweeping here.
  • If you have a neighborhood or homeowner’s association (HOA) ask them to include slow speed reminders in your neighborhood newsletters.
  • Allow more time for travel. Accidents happen at any speed, but injuries and damage are more significant at speeds over 25 mph.
  • Directed Patrol for targeted enforcement may be requested from Police here. However, please keep in mind that the ability for Police to respond is dependent on staffing and many other competing needs to keep the community safe. 

Signs and enforcement can only do so much to influence driver behavior. The most effective speed control is a safety conscious culture.

 

Category: Traffic Engineering
I can't afford to pay for an inspection. What do I do?

The City does not want to place undue financial hardship on lower income homeowners. Addressing this is a top priority for staff and Council. City staff is exploring ways to assist lower income home owners obtain a Home Energy Score. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I make a mistake?

If you make a mistake in marking your ballot, place an X over the mismarked oval and fill in the oval of your preferred choice and circle that oval.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
What is the new EPA rule?

The new EPA rule—the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR)--establishes   legally enforceable levels for six PFAS known to occur individually and/or as mixtures in drinking water. EPA will regulate five PFAS as individually. They are PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA. EPA will regulate four PFAS as a mixture: PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS. PFAS can often be found together and in varying combinations as mixtures. Decades of research show mixtures of different chemicals can have additive health effects, even if the individual chemicals are each present at lower levels. With this rule, EPA has set limits for these chemicals individually and/or as mixtures. See the following FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information.

Category: PFAS
Will a large truck fit?

Yes, the apron of the traffic circle is built with a height so that it can be driven over if need be. It should be done very slowly to prevent damage to the vehicle.

Category: Traffic Circles
How can the speed limit be changed on a street?

In Oregon, speed limits are set by and changed through specific procedures defined in state laws and regulations. The primary consideration of this process is the measured speeds of drivers on the street currently. This means that sometimes if a street is studied, the process may actually result in a higher speed limit being posted. The City may occasionally request review of speed limits through the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), however the process can take upwards of six months or more for a determination on whether or not any speed changes may occur. Information about the speed setting process in Oregon is available here.

Recent changes in state law now allow some cities in Oregon to complete speed studies themselves, subject to State oversight. However, the same statewide rules and regulations must be followed. Due to staff workloads and the time-consuming nature of speed studies, this is not something Corvallis plans to take on in the near future and will therefore continue to work with ODOT when considering speed limit evaluations.

At this time, before forwarding a request for a speed study to ODOT or not, the City considers the context of the street, recent speed data if available, changes to the street that may have an effect on speeds, law enforcement support, and the likelihood of the speed changing through the study process.

Category: Traffic Engineering
I am planning on selling my home soon. If the ordinance passes, what will I need to do?

If the Home Energy Score passes, it will likely not go into effect until early 2023. In the meantime, the City will work with our partners at Earth Advantage to train home energy assessors in the Corvallis area. If you are planning on selling your home after the ordinance goes into effect, you would need to schedule an appointment with a home energy assessor to obtain a home energy score report. Once that is done, you will need to provide that report to any listing agent or service you use to advertise your home. 

Category: Home Energy Score
What if I damage or lose my ballot?

Contact the Benton County Elections Office for a replacement ballot.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
How do I request traffic calming such as speed bumps or radar speed feedback signs?

The City has adopted a policy and procedure for considering requests for neighborhood traffic calming. You can read more about the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP) here. Requests are only considered for local, residential streets, as traffic calming through the NTCP is not allowed on arterial and collector streets to minimize disruptions to emergency services and transit routes. While there may be past traffic calming that was installed on some of these main streets, new installations are not allowed.

The neighborhood traffic calming program and procedures require broad support from the residents along the subject street and any improvements must be paid for by the adjacent properties. Currently, the City does not have a budget for installing traffic calming on streets by request without neighborhood financial support.

Permanent radar speed feedback sign installations have been used in Corvallis at a small amount of locations, typically at or near school speed zones thanks to special funding from the State or school district. Additional radar speed feedback signs may be installed on arterial and collector streets where speed limits drop, mostly when entering into the City. These devices can have significant ongoing maintenance needs and be costly to replace if struck, vandalized, or they fail. The Police Department has a small amount of portable speed radar feedback signs, however their ability move these around frequently and widely in response to traffic concerns is limited due to staffing and upkeep.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How will my ballot be counted?

The Benton County Election Office will tally ballots in accordance with the County and City’s ranked choice voting rules for implementation. A detailed description of the tallying process can be found on the Benton County’s Benton Better Ballot site.

Category: Ranked Choice Voting
Is this another government fee or tax on Corvallis property owners?

No. The fee collected by the home energy assessor goes directly to the assessor, with the exception of a $35 flat fee that goes to Earth Advantage to support assessor training, marketing, and administration of Home Energy Score policies across the state.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about snow or general debris removal?

Generally, there are no problems with snow or debris removal in traffic circle.

Category: Traffic Circles
What is the City of Corvallis doing to address PFAS and phthalate in wastewater and biosolids?

The City is looking at different sources of PFAS in wastewater, including our industrial customers. The City is also working with biosolids researchers at OSU and professional groups in the Northwest and is engaged in regional and statewide efforts to increase knowledge about PFAS risks and how to minimize those risks. The City is also sharing information about PFAS so the public can make educated choices.

Category: PFAS
What lodging facilities are exempt from the tax?
  • Health care facilities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and residential care facilities that are licensed, registered, or certified by Oregon Department of Human Services.
  • Drug or alcohol abuse treatment facilities and mental health treatment facilities.
  • Facilities with less than 30 days of rentals in a calendar year.  The exemption granted under this subsection does not apply to a dwelling unit that is rented out as a lodging using a lodging intermediary platform of any kind.    
  • Any Facility whose rent is collected for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter, with a voucher bearing the seal of the City of Corvallis, issued by a tax-exempt, non-profit charitable organization, as defined by the Oregon Department of revenue.  
  • Nonprofit youth or church camps, nonprofit conference centers, and qualifying nonprofit facilities.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business.
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
  • Non-profit charitable organizations for the purpose of emergency or temporary shelter.  See the City of Corvallis code 8.04.050.

Please note, property owners who rent a residential unit on a month-to-month or fixed term basis are required to register their unit with the City’s Rental Housing Program. Visit the Rental Housing Program for more information.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How can I get a certain sign, pavement markings like a crosswalk, or flashing beacon for crossing installed?

The most effective way to report concerns or requests to the City is through the online Report A Problem system at http://www.corvallisoregon.gov/report Many transportation-related items reported to the City come in the form of a suggested or requested treatment. Staff will investigate and determine if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed and if the suggested or requested treatment is appropriate. If staff does find an issue, and believes it may warrant addressing, we may agree with the treatment proposed (if there was one) or choose a different one utilizing our best judgment. Issues needing to be addressed will have to compete with existing priorities, including staff time and budget. We have a limited range of tools within our annual budget. Examples of more easy improvements to implement include lower cost signs and pavement markings, when and where appropriate. However, please know that if the reported issue or request would require installation of substantial new features or could result in a larger project, the City does not typically have this type of un-budgeted funding readily available. These kinds of efforts are subject to the City’s annual public budgeting process and Council approval. You can learn more about the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) here.

Category: Traffic Engineering
How do I determine if my short-term guest is exempt from the LRT?
  • Lodgers who spend 30 or more consecutive days at the same facility
  • Any occupant who is a federal employee or an employee of a federal instrumentality (i.e., Red Cross) on official business
  • Any person who has diplomatic immunity.
Category: Are any lodgers exempt from the tax?
So why is the City interested in a Home Energy Score ordinance?

As part of its commitment to mitigating climate change and curbing emissions, the City sees this as an opportunity for community members to better understand their energy usage and to increase energy efficiency in the built environment in our community. The implementation of a home energy performance rating is an objective in both the City's Climate Action Plan (page 12), adopted in 2016, and the City's 2022-2026 Strategic Operational Plan (page 13). If the ordinance passes, Corvallis would be the fourth municipality in Oregon to require a Home Energy Score, following Portland, Milwaukie, and Hillsboro. 

Category: Home Energy Score
I still have questions about this proposed policy.

That's understandable! Please contact Kathryn Duvall at (541) 766-6423 or kathryn.duvall@corvallisoregon.gov.

Category: Home Energy Score
What about home water filtration? Does that remove PFAS?

PFAS have NOT been detected in Corvallis drinking water. According to the EPA, a home filter could be an effective way to reduce PFAS levels (EPA filter factsheet). Many water pitcher filters and other home-based water filters are able to reduce the levels of PFAS in drinking water. If you decide to use a filter, look for ones that are certified to reduce PFAS. Be aware that current filters on the market will not yet be certified to reduce PFAS to the new EPA standard, but the added filtration they provide can help reduce your exposure. It's important to note that the current certification standards for PFAS filters (as of April 2024) do not yet indicate that a filter will remove PFAS down to the levels EPA has now set for a drinking water standard.

 

Category: PFAS
When is lodging tax due?

Lodging Tax Collectors must submit a Lodging Tax Return Form and related payment no later than the last day of the month following the end of the tax period. 

The City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes should all be filed with the Oregon Department of Revenue.

 

Due dates for filing returns and making payments
Period (quarter) Period end date Due date
Jan-Feb-Mar March 31 April 30
Apr-May-Jun June 30 July 31
July-Aug-Sep September 30 October 31
Oct-Nov-Dec December 31 January 31
Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will the railroad crossing on 11th Street be upgraded to concrete similar to the crossing at Adams?

When we analyze a span of road to implement a Neighborhood Bikeway, we look carefully at every element. Railroad crossings are no exception. We are aware that the condition of these crossings can pose a challenge for some street users. Although improvements may appear straightforward on the surface, crossings are actually located within railroad-owned land and require complex coordination, negotiation, approval, and agreements with the railroad and the State who regulates rail crossings. This makes the process very difficult, time consuming and quite expensive. So expensive, in fact, that the cost of crossing improvements alone can quickly surpass the budget for the entire project.

Due to the complexity of parties involved, high costs, and the desire to still advance other beneficial elements of the Neighborhood Bikeway network, we have elected to remove railroad crossings reconstruction from the current project phase. This does not preclude a later effort to attempt to tackle this complex work here and elsewhere.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
Can I boil PFAS out of my water?

No. These chemicals cannot be removed by heating or boiling water. See FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. 

 

Category: PFAS
What is the penalty for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay a penalty. The penalty will be imposed in the same manner and the amount provided under ORS 314.400. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Will speed humps have channels cut in them so bicycles can ride through them?

Currently, we do not have any speed humps on Neighborhood Bikeways that have channels cut to accommodate for bicyclist and/or vehicles with larger axles, such as emergency vehicles.

While a good idea in theory, we have found that there are two main issues. When bikes and vehicles are sharing the road on local streets, and both a vehicle and bike arrive simultaneously at a speed hump, bikes may be squeezed out of their path of travel by vehicles so vehicles can drive through the channel too. This is when a chain of events can occur. While being closely passed, the rider is forced to move quickly and into crossing the speed hump gap at an angle, which could result in a crash due to the abrupt edges and elevation.

From a maintenance perspective, speed humps with channels are a challenge. The gap accumulates debris such as leaves in the fall, gravel in the winter, and other debris throughout the year. It is simply not possible to remove this material from this gap with our street sweepers. Eventually, it must be manually removed, which is time consuming from an automation standpoint. Since local streets are not swept as frequently as arterials and collectors, this will likely lead to frustration for cyclists.

We will continue to monitor and internally evaluate this topic but at the current time, there is no plan to change the current design of speed humps to accommodate channels.

Category: Neighborhood Bikeways
What if I get water from a well, instead of the City of Corvallis drinking water?

The quality and safety of drinking water from wells that service fewer than 25 persons, such as most household wells, are not regulated by the federal government under the Safe Drinking Water Act nor by many state governments and laws. Furthermore, the City does not have groundwater quality information and does not monitor or regulate drinking water wells.

Private well owners are responsible for assuring safe drinking water for their households. See this FACT SHEET (epa.gov) for more information. If you want to test your well water, visit the Benton County OSU Extension Service’s Water Tests webpage for more information.

Category: PFAS
What is the interest fee for a late lodging tax return and/or payment?

The Lodging Tax is delinquent on the first working day of the month following each quarterly payment due date. Any lodging tax collector who has not been granted an extension of time for remittance of tax due, and who fails to remit lodging tax prior to delinquency shall pay interest.  Interest will be added to the overall tax amount due at the same rate established under ORS 305.220 for each month, or fraction of a month, from the time the return to the Tax Administrator was originally required to be filed to the time of the payment.  

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is a part per trillion? How much is that?

Parts per trillion is a unit of measure. It is a very tiny amount. For perspective, one part per trillion is the equivalent of four grains of sugar in an Olympic sized swimming pool (From EPA Factsheet).  

Category: PFAS
How do I remit my lodging tax payment?

For instructions on how to file the City of Corvallis, Benton County, and the State of Oregon Lodging Taxes, see the filing instructions here. https://www.oregon.gov/dor/forms/FormsPubs/publication-or-olt-ol_604-006.pdf

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How do I obtain approval for a vacation rental?

Approval for property zoning must be obtained from the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development Departments.

The City has received several inquiries from property owners interested in establishing short-term (vacation) rentals. Renting out an entire home for a short-term stay of less than 30 days, with no owner present, is classified in Chapter 3.0 of the City’s Land Development Code (LDC) as a Lodging Service use type. Lodging Services are permitted in a variety of commercial zones, however, they are not permitted within residential zoning districts. Property owners that would like to rent out rooms within their home may qualify as a Home Business. Home Businesses are permitted as accessory uses in a majority of the City’s residential zoning districts. Under the definition of Home Business in the LDC,“…Bed and Breakfast businesses that rent up to two bedrooms within owner occupied dwellings are considered to be Home Businesses and are an allowed use….”

 

City of Corvallis

Development Services

https://www.corvallisoregon.gov/ds

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

Benton County

Community Development

https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax/page/start-short-term-rental

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
I use Airbnb for a vacation rental. Am I required to report lodging taxes?

If you rent space exclusively through Airbnb, then you are only required to register with the Lodging Tax program. You are not required to collect and remit payment. Airbnb as the lodging intermediary for your reservations should collect and remit the lodging taxes on your behalf. 

If you rent space and collect payment from lodging customers directly, then you are required to both register with the City of Corvallis and to remit Lodging Taxes on those collections to the Oregon Department of Revenue. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Does City of Corvallis offer a Lodging Tax Collector reimbursement/administrative fee?

No, the City of Corvallis has a ‘Grandfathered lodging tax'. Local governments that imposed a lodging tax prior to January 1, 2001 are not required to offer a reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax (also known as an Administrative Fee).

Conversely, Benton County has a ‘New lodging tax’. Local governments that imposed a new lodging tax on or after January 1, 2001 must allow collectors to retain a minimum of 5 percent of all collected tax revenues as reimbursement for the costs of collecting the tax.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What is HB2656 and when did it take effect?

In 2013, the Oregon Legislature enacted Oregon House Bill 2656, which made two important changes to the state law on transient lodging tax. First, the tax must be paid on the full retail price of a room, including any charges added to the price. Second, transient lodging intermediaries, or “online travel companies” that take payment for the rooms they book must remit the tax directly to the state and local jurisdictions on those transactions, rather than forwarding that payment to the hotel or owner. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
How are lodging taxes used by the City?

Lodging taxes may be used for visitor information center(s), convention promotion and support, the administration of the lodging tax program and any other municipal purpose.

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Is lodging tax in the Corvallis Municipal Code?

Yes, please see Chapter 8.04 - LODGING TAX. 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Who can I contact for more information?

Questions related to filing and remitting taxes should be directed to the Oregon Department of Revenue.

Questions related to registration should be directed to the City of Corvallis Finance department.

Questions related to property zoning should be directed to the City of Corvallis and Benton County Development departments.

 

State of Oregon City of Corvallis Benton County

Department of Revenue

(503) 378-4988

questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov

www.oregon.gov/dor

Finance | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6729 ext. 5138

transient.roomtax@corvallisoregon.gov

Community Development | Benton County

(541) 766-6819

comdevinfo@co.benton.or.us
 

Development Services | City of Corvallis

(541) 766-6929

development.services@corvallisoregon.gov

 

 

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the Benton County lodging tax?

Please visit Benton County Lodging Tax and Permits https://www.co.benton.or.us/lodgingtax

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
Where can I find information on the State lodging tax?

Please visit Oregon Department of Revenue https://www.oregon.gov/DOR/programs/businesses/Pages/lodging.aspx

Category: Lodging Room Tax Program
What do I do if the equipment needs maintenance?

If the bike trailer(s) need emergency maintenance, the City has an agreement with Spicy Pedals and Corvallis Cyclery. You may take the trailer(s) to either of these locations and have the work performed and billed to Josh Capps at the City of Corvallis. Please notify Josh Capps at 541-766-6916 or josh.capps@corvallisoregon.gov of the situation that occurred and that maintenance was needed. The City is unable to do personal reimbursements.

Category: Portable Bike Racks

Director's Notice of Disposition

Please click the link below for more information.

Wishcamper Replat (PAR-2025-01)

Land Use Pre-notification

Please click the link below for more information.

Avery Park HPSV (CPA-2025-02)

Corvallis Municipal Code

City Council Notice of Disposition

Please click the links below for more information.

Oregonized Development Annexation (ANN-2024-04)

Floodplain Provisions - CAC Update (LDT-2023-05)

Connect with City Council

The City Council welcomes public participation in local government processes. View the City calendar or select from the resources below to learn about the available opportunities for civic engagement.

Notice of Land Use Public Hearing

Please click the link below for more information.

Ayer House Egress Windows (HPP-2025-16)

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