Washington County’s Major Streets Transportation Improvement Program (MSTIP) is celebrating a huge milestone this year — 40 years of connecting people and places.
Since kicking off in the neon bright 1980s (back when cassette tapes ruled and Back to the Future made us all dream of hoverboards), MSTIP has delivered more than 160 transportation projects and invested over $1.35 billion in community improvements.
Over the last four decades, you’ve likely traveled MTSIP projects without even knowing it.
Major projects have included:
Major revamp of Cornelius Pass Road
Multi-phase improvements along Walker Road
Two generations of improvements to Tualatin-Sherwood Road
Safety and traffic flow upgrades on Farmington Road
MSTIP has helped strengthen connections across Washington County by linking neighborhoods, supporting our local economy, and improving the everyday trips that take us where we need to go.
This summer, we’re celebrating MSTIP40 with community events, fun activities, and a countywide MSTIP40 BINGO card you can use to explore transportation improvements in your district.
Summer paving is right around the corner, with crews and contractors working across unincorporated Washington County this June through September.
This season’s program includes a mix of chip seal, slurry seal, and asphalt overlay treatments to keep roads safe, smooth, and well-maintained.
What to Expect
We have created a new Paving: What to Expect webpage, where community members can learn about:
Different paving treatments
How notifications work
What crews need to complete projects safely
Some paving schedules have been posted on the Paving Schedule page, while others will continue to be added and updated throughout the season as project timing is confirmed.
Expanding Safe Connections with Sidewalk Improvements
Three sidewalk projects are scheduled for construction this season to improve safety and strengthen pedestrian connections across Washington County.
Scholls Ferry Road: New sidewalk sections between Laurelwood and 77th avenues, and at SW 121st Avenue, will improve safety along this busy commuter corridor, creating more consistent routes near homes and transit stops.
Murray Boulevard: Construction will close a long‑standing sidewalk gap and provide a continuous walkway between the Beaverton Creek Trail and the Beaverton Creek Max Station.
Blanton Street: Sidewalk improvements will add new pedestrian space between 185th and 198th avenues, creating safer, more comfortable connections in this growing residential area.
Each project fills an important gap in our network, making it easier to reach schools, parks, transit, and neighborhood destinations.
Do you want to learn more about projects happening in your community and help shape BIG decisions in Washington County? Visit our Open Houses & Comment Opportunities website to explore active projects, review project materials, and share feedback anytime, anywhere.
Join the discussion and help guide the future of land use and transportation!
Summer roadwork is here! Construction season brings several major Washington County transportation improvements that will enhance access, increase safety, and support long‑term mobility throughout the county.
From temporary signal shutdowns to avoid on your lunch break, to major road closures that will change your daily commute. Plus, community events and more!
Don’t be caught by surprise – visit wc-roads.comto find out what’s happening on county roads and streets.
Little Homes, Big News: Rural ADUs Get the Green Light
On May 28, A-Engrossed Ordinance No. 912 took effect, opening the door for Rural Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Rural Historic ADUs in rural residential districts outside an urban growth boundary (subject to certain requirements).
“For years, people have asked whether ADUs could be allowed in rural areas," said Washington County Senior Planner, Todd Borkowitz.
"We studied the issue, heard from the community, and now we have a path for more housing options for our rural community members.”
If you’re curious about what this means for your rural residential property, reach out to 503-846-8761 or lutdev@washingtoncountyor.gov
Run SPOT, Run: Microtransit Pilot Program Sees Early Success
Washington County’s SPOT Southwest launched on January 5, giving 17 rides on its first day of operation.
Today, SPOT (Shared Public On-Demand Transit) averages 66 rides a day in the neighborhoods of Southwest Beaverton and River Terrace in Tigard that currently lack access to public transit.
Riders are using this free, on-demand service, operated by Ride Connection, to reach key destinations like Washington Square, shopping centers, Mountainside High School, and TriMet connections.
Community support for SPOT Southwest keeps growing, with the service already reaching its target goalsa full year ahead of schedule.
More than 1,300 people have downloaded the appto schedule rides since January!
Reflective backplates—bright borders added around traffic signals—have reduced crashes by 16% at upgraded intersections.
They improve visibility at night, in bad weather, during power outages, and in sun-glare conditions.
Because they’re inexpensive, quick to install, and can be added during routine maintenance, reflective backplates offer a high-impact safety boost for drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and transit riders alike.
Washington County will continue adding them to new and existing signals to help keep everyone moving safely.
Did you know Washington County’sEconomic Development Programhas great resources for small businesses and job seekers?
TheSmall Business Resource Directoryconnects you with local-area and culturally specific chambers, community organizations, and trade groups, as well as a library of support services—from technical help and access to capital to networking and legal resources.
Ambassador Program: Building Community, One Conversation at a Time
This summer, you’ll see Ambassadors out at fairs, festivals, farmers markets, and neighborhood events—meeting people and bringing Land Use & Transportation’s work to life through conversations.
These aren’t just employees at a booth. They’re the people who plan, build, and maintain our County’s streets, bridges, traffic signals, and more, sharing stories, answering questions, and helping the community feel more connected to the place we all call home.
Meet the Ambassadors, learn their story, and see where you can find them this summer.
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