Sammamish City officials gathered on July 16, 2025, to discuss the Bike and Pedestrian Mobility Plan, focusing on enhancing safety and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians throughout the community. The meeting highlighted the need for physical separation between bike lanes and vehicle traffic, particularly on higher-speed roadways, as a key recommendation to improve safety.

City planners acknowledged that while various methods for achieving this separation exist—such as pylons and planter boxes—specific standards have yet to be established. A forthcoming project will update the city’s right-of-way codes and public works standards, which will help define acceptable solutions for physical separation. This initiative aims to align Sammamish with neighboring cities like Redmond and Bellevue, which have already begun implementing similar safety measures.

Community members raised concerns about the lack of crosswalks in certain areas, particularly where trails intersect with roadways. City officials confirmed that a comprehensive crosswalk study is planned for 2026, which will expand upon existing transit plans to address these gaps. Residents expressed frustration over dangerous walking conditions, especially on streets like 240 Fourth Avenue, where sidewalks are incomplete or non-existent. City representatives assured attendees that this area is recognized as a medium to high priority for future improvements.

The meeting also touched on the importance of engaging with local schools to ensure safe routes for students. While the city currently uses a half-mile radius around schools for planning purposes, officials are open to exploring more sophisticated mapping tools to better assess accessibility.

As Sammamish continues to develop its Bike and Pedestrian Mobility Plan, residents can expect further discussions and updates on these critical safety initiatives. The city is committed to addressing community concerns while balancing budget constraints and prioritizing projects that enhance mobility for all.