Traffic + Construction = Progress

I'm lucky to live in Portland's close-in eastside, between SE Division and SE Powell.  The neighborhood has much to offer, with several new improvements coming soon.  Work on the new light rail line is in full swing, especially as seen from lower Division, SE Powell and SE17th and of course long SE 17th.  In addition, the city is about to undertake the Division Streetscape work; from SE Cesar Chavez to SE 11th. This project combines sewer work with a variety of street improvements including better ADA ramps at intersections, bike boxes at intersections, curbs, sidewalks and so on.  Work on the Division project begins this coming Monday, 5.6.2013.

The City of Portland's Bureau of Transportation some nice webtools, including a project overview and block by block project maps.  Below is the map of SE 21st and Division:

You can get a good look at your favorite intersections, and what all will be involved in the construction.

There is also a nice site tracking the progress and effects of the Portland-Milwaukie light rail project, offering surprisingly up to date route and traffic information.  I'm amazed at the wide swath being cleared through the inner east-side. 

These two projects adjoin each other in the Clinton - 11th - Division - 12th blocks, making for an already congested area.  Monday's start of the Division Streetscape project could make things interesting.  I'll be investigating some alternative commute routes; Powell to 99E?  Staying east and cutting down at Hawthorne?

How about you?