Traffic

After reviewing relevant concerns related to the proposed site, we realize that our primary focus must be on traffic impacts. We commissioned a traffic count at 182nd & Powell by Traf Stats, and an independent review of the Wal-Mart engineer (Kittelson) figures was conducted by Greenlight Engineering. A summary of Greenlight’s findings and recommendations were sent to the City of Gresham during the review period, and is available to members for review.

Traffic concerns include:

• Wal-Mart's superstore will increase traffic congestion for residents, shoppers, and workers.
• Increased traffic poses safety risks to pedestrians from nearby schools & Springwater Corridor.
• Congestion may compromise public safety services provided by Fire Station #73.
• Decreased quality of life for nearby residents as traffic impacts air quality standards and increases noise pollution.
  

  Click to view the Wal-Mart Traffic Impact Analysis (conducted by Kittelson), including the Technical Appendices.
  

Environment

• The proximity of this development to Springwater Trail and Johnson Creek and Fairview Creek Headwater Restoration Project will threaten water quality and aquifers through mismanagement of storm water and sewage, and with excavation required for 1,000 UNDERGROUND PARKING SPACES.
• The majority of an old-growth cedar stand was removed for the development of the QFC in 2001. This project includes removal of remaining significant trees.
• Development of this 11.7 acre site will result in 9.77 acres (83%) of impervious surface in watershed basin.
• Irreversible reduction of wildlife habitat and loss of open space and unique natural areas.

  Click to view the comments submitted by Johnson Creek Watershed Council.
  

Economy

• Each Wal-Mart drains over $100 million from local businesses annually, sending profits to Arkansas and overseas
• Wal-Mart closes local businesses or forces them to compete by laying off workers and reducing wages & benefits
• For every two jobs Wal-Mart creates, the community loses three. This net loss of better-paying jobs will continue the downward spiral of low-wage jobs in our community. We don't need 400 more low-wage jobs.
• More than half of Wal-Mart's employees cannot afford the company's health insurance. Many rely on public assistance, which costs taxpayers as much as $420,000 a year for each Wal-Mart. Our local grocers provide better benefits to their employees, which helps the local economy.
• Impacts to local small business cause the deterioration of historic commercial centers

  Click to view the STAFF REPORT BY U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND THE WORKFORCE
  titled EVERYDAY LOW WAGES: THE HIDDEN PRICE WE ALL PAY FOR WAL-MART (adobe acrobat reader required)