City Council plans 20 mph pilot project for traffic calming and safety improvements

Lake Stevens City Council is set to launch a pilot program aimed at enhancing traffic safety, particularly around local schools, with a proposed 20-mile-per-hour speed limit. During the March 25, 2025, meeting, council members discussed the program's potential to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for pedestrians, especially during school hours.

The pilot program will feature narrower traffic lanes and increased visibility of pedestrians to encourage safer driving behaviors. While the implementation of a lower speed limit alone may not change driver behavior significantly, the council is considering additional traffic calming measures to support the initiative. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) recommends the 20 mph limit for local streets, a practice already adopted in cities like Seattle and Tacoma.

The estimated cost for the pilot program is approximately $48,000, which includes materials such as delineators and signage. However, the reusable nature of these materials could reduce the net cost to around $23,000. This investment is viewed as a research opportunity, allowing the city to gather data on traffic patterns and community feedback before committing to permanent changes.

An open house is planned for April 9, where residents will have the chance to provide input on the pilot program and discuss potential long-term solutions. The city is currently finalizing the location for this event, aiming to maximize public participation.

Council members emphasized the importance of collecting data during the school year to ensure the pilot program's effectiveness. The pilot is expected to run for at least a month, with opportunities for public feedback both during and after the program's implementation.

As the city moves forward with this initiative, it aims to foster a safer environment for its residents, particularly children, while engaging the community in the decision-making process.