Suquamish Way Intersection changes
Hi All,
Time to get involved again. WSDOT is proposing to make modifications to the SR305 / Suquamish Way intersection and roadway to the east up to the Agate Pass bridge. This work is funded by a grant awarded to Kitsap Transit and the focus has been on creating a way for busses to jump the line of traffic at the intersection and to provide a longer pocket for westbound autos turning north onto Suquamish Way. Squeaky Wheels has been working with WSDOT to provide input on the design. Unfortunately at this time the design still appears to present a reduction in safety for cyclists and pedestrians, rather than an enhancement, and we do not find it acceptable to us in its current form. This is an important intersection for bicyclists and is used by a large number of both commuter and recreational cyclists, including our Governor. And we do want to keep our biggest bicycle advocate safe, sound and happy along with the rest of us!
There is a meeting between WSDOT, Kitsap Transit and Bicycle interest groups being held at the Casino on Friday April, 3 at 6:30 to discuss the details and get input. We have been requesting that WSDOT provide meetings in the evening to allow more attendance and to have an open public meeting. At this time WSDOT has agreed to an evening meeting but does not want this to be an open public meeting; however they have not restricted the number of people that each group brings and there is adequte room for a large number of people in the meeting facility. They have requested an estimate of the number of attendees so please let me know if you are planning to come.
Attached you will find WSDOT’s current proposed design and,
a quick mark-up with notes we provided at the last meeting for suggestions on how to improve the design.
Please get involved and attend if you can and/or pass the word. Please email back and identify yourself as being associated with at least one advocacy or interested organization (WABikes, Cascade, West Sound, Squeaky Wheels, North Kitsap Trails, Bainbridge NMTAC, an agency, etc.) as WSDOT has requested an estimated head-count.
I can provide more information and details as needed. It important for all of us to get involved and to have a firm but constructive bicycle advocacy voice so that the project can be a success for all of our citizens. And you can bring your sweetheart and have a fun evening at the casino afterwards!
Thx! –
Ross Hathaway
President, Squeaky Wheels
