Neighborhood Connection
Grant Program
Jessica introduced Kari
Page, Kirkland Neighborhood Coordinator, to describe the status of the
Neighborhood Connection Grant Program suggestions submitted.
Kari indicated that the
ballots are going out soon and she will report back in March with the
results. The council approved 1 sign
each for Bridle Trails and South Rose Hill.
Ellen McMahon described the
need for traffic calming in the neighborhood due to speeding problems. She asked for volunteers to serve on a task
force. Several persons volunteered. A neighborhood meeting on the subject will
be held once the task force makes recommendations. A 70% vote of those who turn in the ballot
will be required. Issues discussed
included the need to separate fire response routes and arterials from the list. For example
NE 85th
Subarea Plan- Work Program
Janice Stoloff of the
Planning Dept (828-1274) provided an update on the 85th Corridor
Plan. Council adopted it in Spring
2001. The next step is implementation
through zoning code revisions and other actions. The Planning Commission will consider zoning,
gateway signing, commercial district incentives, transportation (e.g. median
treatments, signals, sidewalks, HOV lane).
Michael Cummings of WSDOT presented the background on the I-405 Corridor Program and the Preferred Alternative selected in November 2001. The Preferred Alternative includes adding two lanes each direction to I-405, a bus rapid transit system using the HOV lanes, up to 70% expansion in transit service, Transportation Demand Management and other actions. The cost is around $7Billion. Kevin Shively of Sensible Solutions presented an alternative plan that would include less freeway construction, expanded transit services, and commuter rail along the BNSF railroad right-of-way. He argued that this proposal would be more cost effective and have fewer environmental impacts. The cost would be around $3 Billion. A final EIS will be published in Spring 2002 and a final recommendation will be made this summer. The speakers answered several questions from the NA members.
Reports and Updates:
The
meeting adjourned at 9:10 PM.
Respectfully
Submitted,
Donald
Samdahl, Secretary