Sammamish City officials are prioritizing pedestrian and bicycle mobility in a new plan aimed at enhancing access to key locations throughout the city. During a community meeting on July 16, 2025, city planners outlined their strategy to address sidewalk gaps and improve bike paths, emphasizing the need for a data-driven approach to prioritize projects effectively.

The meeting highlighted the importance of the city's arterial network as a foundation for the mobility plan. Officials acknowledged that while the ultimate goal is to have sidewalks and bike paths throughout the city, immediate action requires a focus on existing gaps. "We can't start off with the goal of having sidewalks everywhere," one planner noted, stressing the necessity of prioritization.

Key areas of focus include access to schools and the identification of sidewalk gaps along major roads. Current projects, such as those on Sahali Way and Louis Thompson, are already underway, with plans to fill identified gaps by 2044. However, challenges remain, particularly on Southeast 20 Fourth Street and parts of Dutty Hill Road, where pedestrian and bicycle facilities are lacking.

The planners also discussed the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze traffic stress levels and safety, ensuring that the proposed facilities meet community needs. "Connections are the most important thing," one official stated, underscoring the need for safe and accessible routes for both pedestrians and cyclists.

As the city moves forward with this mobility plan, residents can expect continued discussions and updates on the progress of these critical infrastructure improvements, aimed at fostering a more connected and accessible Sammamish.