The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has initiated a study, in coordination with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), to evaluate the transportation system at the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area (ONA).

The Yaquina Head ONA was established by Congress to provide for the conservation and development of the scenic, natural, and historic values of the area; the continued use of the area for education, scientific study, and public recreation; and protection of the wildlife habitat of the area.

Increasing visitation to the Yaquina Head ONA has resulted in growing traffic congestion and risk of user conflicts. The purpose of the Yaquina Head Traffic Study is to identify and address site needs including operations at the entrance station, overall site circulation, multimodal (bicycle and pedestrian) accommodations and safety enhancements, parking management, pavement preservation, and congestion mitigation. When identifying and refining potential improvements, the study team will consider public and stakeholder comments, environmental constraints, constructability challenges, and financial feasibility. The intent of the study is to provide an efficient transition from transportation analysis to future project development and environmental review, if any, based on identified need and funding availability. This is an initial study to help inform a future design or construction project. The study will be a collaborative process with FHWA, BLM, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), the City of Newport, stakeholders, and the public to identify needs and potential solutions.