City Council secures $4.7M for safe routes and ADA compliance projects

In the heart of Sequim, Washington, city officials gathered for a Planning Commission Regular Session on June 3, 2025, where discussions centered on ambitious transportation projects aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for residents. The meeting highlighted a significant $4.7 million initiative focused on improving pedestrian and bike access, particularly around schools and parks.

City planners expressed optimism about securing funding through the "Safe Streets for All" program, following a previous application that fell short due to funding constraints on higher-priority projects. This new funding effort aims to create safer routes for children traveling to school, with plans to extend improvements along East Fir Street, connecting vital community areas.

One of the standout projects discussed was the citywide pedestrian and bike improvements, which will utilize a $155,000 city fund to leverage over $700,000 for reconstructing 62 ADA-compliant ramps. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to enhance accessibility throughout Sequim, aligning with the city's ADA transition plan.

The meeting also touched on the Keeler Road multiuse path, a key component of the Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) project. This path will serve as a crucial connection for residents, providing an alternative route to the ODT and improving access for those living east and west of Keeler Road.

Concerns were raised about the timeline for addressing a problematic intersection near Les Schwab, which has been a source of frustration for residents. While city officials acknowledged the issue, they noted that safety improvements are often driven by collision data, which may not fully capture the community's concerns about near-misses and visibility issues.

As the meeting concluded, officials reassured attendees that despite potential disruptions in federal funding, state sources remain stable. They emphasized a proactive approach to securing funding for future projects, ensuring that Sequim continues to prioritize safe and accessible transportation for all its residents. The discussions underscored a commitment to not only improve infrastructure but also to listen to community feedback, paving the way for a more connected and safer Sequim.