4th and Plum Pedestrian and Bike Improvements

active

We are changing 4th Avenue between Chestnut and Pear Streets because we identified this as an intersection of concern in our Street Safety Plan. There have been several collisions involving pedestrians here. This project will change the intersection to make it safer for everyone who uses it, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers. The planned changes include a separated bike lane, curb bulb-outs, sidewalk repairs, new street markings, upgraded curb ramps, accessible pedestrian signals, and a hardened centerline on East Bay Drive. We will be removing the right turn lane from 4th Avenue to make room for these changes. This could result in an increase in traffic congestion at this intersection at peak times. In making these changes, we are prioritizing safety, especially of pedestrians and bicyclists, and accepting an increase in congestion. Planned changes The graphic above is a conceptual representation of the planned changes. These changes include: Separated bike lane: The bike lane is separated from traffic by on-street parking stalls and a painted buffer. Green bike lane: Highlights the zone dedicated to bicyclists and raises awareness of a potential conflict area. Fix sidewalks: Repair or replace damaged sidewalks. Remove turn lane: Remove the dedicated right turn lane to make room for the separated bike lane and curb bulb-outs. Curb bulb-outs: Reduces the crossing distance and exposure to vehicles for pedestrians. Signal changes: Add accessible pedestrian signals and prohibit right turns on red. Green bike crossing: Markings raise driver awareness of a potential conflict area. Curb ramps: All curb ramps will meet current standards. Upgraded curb ramps make the intersection more accessible for people with disabilities. Project benefits Makes it safer for pedestrians and bicyclists. Reduces the time pedestrians are exposed to oncoming traffic while crossing 4th Avenue. Raises awareness and visibility of conflicts between drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Improves mobility for people who have a wider range of abilities, such as people using wheelchairs. Construction information Construction is scheduled for Summer 2024. During construction, you can expect: Lane closures and flaggers directing traffic. Noise, vibration, dust, and debris. Driveway closures. Large machinery and truck activity. Parking impacts near the worksite. Detours for pedestrians and cyclists due to the closure of crosswalks, sidewalks, or bike lanes. Periodic night work which may require street closure. Project costs The estimated cost is $1,628,100. We received a $1,269,000 Pedestrian and Bicycle Program grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation for the project.

High