I spoke too soon about "Carmageddon 2.0". Apparently we are going with #Viadoom.
On to more serious matters.
Some of you may have seen this video posted on the Seattle Bike Blog involving dangerous truck-versus-bike intersection in Seattle.
Cascade took these concerns very seriously and took them back to WSDOT to find out what was being done to avoid a crash. Here is WSDOT's reponse:
Are you planning to ride your bike from West Seattle during the nine-day viaduct closure? Thanks for choosing to use alternate transportation! Here’s what WSDOT and SDOT are doing to support you:What WSDOT, SDOT and the Port are all doing sounds good and all, but I want to know how you, fellow bike commuter, are feeling out there on the road during #Viadoom. Let us know in the comments.Also, we’re aware that some northbound East Marginal Way South freight haulers are illegally using the southbound lane to access the Port of Seattle when a train blocks the intersection at South Atlantic Street. I wanted to let you know that WSDOT, SDOT and the Port of Seattle are working together to address the issue while improving safety for all travelers. Here’s what we’re doing:
- Hosting a morning commute meet-and-greet under the West Seattle Bridge with Cascade Bicycle Club. 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 24 and Wednesday, Oct. 26.
- Paving over the existing multi-use path on the west side of the street south at South Massachusetts Street.
- Draining the big “flood” puddles along the multi-use path near the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Adding 90 feet of barrier on the multi-use path near South Massachusetts Street.
Thank you, again, for riding your bike during the nine-day closure. Please remember to ride smart and stay visible out there. I’ll look forward to meeting you on the Alki path under the West Seattle Bridge at our WSDOT/Cascade Bicycle Club meet and greet."
- Adding two temporary left-turn lanes on northbound East Marginal Way South between South Atlantic Street and South Massachusetts Street. Trucks will be able to use the two added left-turn lanes to access the port instead of illegally using the southbound lane to jump the line or to turn left into the port.
- Increasing traffic enforcement by adding two additional officers on East Marginal Way South. Additional traffic enforcement would likely deter northbound traffic from speeding or illegally using the southbound lane.
- Working with freight haulers to remind them to watch for cyclists and to use extreme caution when sharing the road with cyclists.
- Asking cyclists to do their part by wearing bright clothing, using lights at night and riding in the multi-use path or striped bike lanes whenever possible.
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