Newberg Notices | March 18, 2025

ODOT Seeks Public Input on Newberg Roadway Improvements

NEWBERG, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is conducting the latest update to the proposed Urban Design Verification (UDV) study to enhance safety and accessibility on segments of OR 99W and OR 219 in Newberg. The study’s open house and community input survey closes on March 30, 2025.

The focus areas include E Hancock and E 1st streets on OR 99W, and a portion of OR 219 between 99W and S Everest Road. These corridors, adjacent to parks, schools, retail outlets, and neighborhoods, experience significant pedestrian and bicycle activity. However, the current road widths present challenges for safe crossings, the release states. ODOT representatives say they plan to address these issues by proposing enhancements such as additional crossings and dedicated bike lanes. ​

To gather community feedback, ODOT has launched an online open house, available through March 30, 2025. Residents are encouraged to participate to learn about the study’s objectives, review proposed improvement locations, and share their perspectives. This input is vital for developing solutions that align with community needs. ​

Currently, the study is in the planning phase, with a budget of $196,306. Funding for design and construction has yet to be secured. ODOT intends to use the study’s findings to pursue grants and other funding opportunities, aiming to integrate the proposed improvements into future projects efficiently. ​

Community engagement is a cornerstone of this initiative, said ODOT Region 2 Active Transportation Liaison Jenna Berman. ODOT emphasizes the importance of public input in shaping transportation solutions that reflect local priorities. Residents can stay informed and contribute their thoughts by signing up for email alerts related to the study and other ODOT projects in Newberg. ​

For more information and to participate in the online open house, visit ODOT’s project page. To receive updates, sign up for email alerts. Direct inquiries can be addressed to Jenna Berman, Region 2 Active Transportation Liaison, at jenna.berman@odot.oregon.gov or 971-719-6024.

Chehalem Cultural Center Calls for Local Artists in 2025 Showcase

NEWBERG, Ore. — The Chehalem Cultural Center is seeking submissions for the third biennial Yamhill County Artist Showcase, a juried exhibition highlighting the region’s visual artists.

The showcase, open to Yamhill County-based artists 18 and older, will feature selected works in a two-month exhibition and award cash prizes, including a “Best in Show” honor. A separate student showcase is available for first through 12th graders.

“This exhibition is a true celebration of our local community of makers,” said Katie Spain, exhibitions coordinator at the center.

All mediums and experience levels are welcome. The exhibition will be juried by Kate Bingaman-Burt, a Portland-based illustrator and educator. The application fee is $30 for adults, with need-based scholarships available. Student submissions are free.

Submissions are open now. More details can be found at ChehalemCulturalCenter.org/Galleries.

Roundabout Construction to Close Villa Road Starting March 27

NEWBERG, Ore. — Roadwork on E Mountainview Drive will bring changes to local traffic as part of the Collina at Springbrook subdivision project.

Starting March 27, N Villa Road at E Mountainview Drive will be closed for roundabout construction, with a detour in place until June. Mountainview Drive will remain open but will be subject to flagging and occasional temporary closures.

Traffic control will shift as construction progresses, and access may be limited to local traffic at times. Businesses and homes in the area will remain accessible. Drivers are encouraged to avoid E Mountainview Drive between N Center Street and N Alice Way if possible.

For more information, contact Brian Kershaw, City of Newberg project manager, at 503-537-1236 or brian.kershaw@newbergoregon.gov.

Newberg Launching Online Permitting System April 1

NEWBERG, Ore. — The City of Newberg will transition to a new online permitting system powered by OpenGov on April 1, streamlining the application process for residents, businesses, and contractors.

The new system will allow users to apply for permits 24/7, track applications in real time, make online payments, and receive automated status updates. City officials say the switch will improve efficiency and reduce processing times.

Once the system goes live, users can create an account through the city’s public portal to submit applications and schedule inspections.

For more information, visit the City of Newberg website or contact Fé Bates at fe.bates@newbergoregon.gov.