During a recent government meeting, local officials discussed pressing traffic safety concerns and enforcement strategies in Shoreline. The meeting highlighted the need for improved traffic enforcement amid rising incidents of reckless driving, with Council Member Scully expressing alarm over the lack of visible police activity in traffic enforcement since the pandemic began. Scully emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, citing community distress over dangerous driving behaviors.
The discussion also touched on the misuse of bus lanes, particularly on Aurora Avenue, where data indicates a correlation between lane violations and increased collisions. Officials noted that new state legislation allows for automated enforcement of bus lane violations, which could enhance safety measures in the area.
Council members raised questions about specific roadways, including State Route 523, which is outside the city’s jurisdiction. While officials acknowledged the need for data on this route, they clarified that collision oversight falls under King County and Seattle. However, there is interest in gathering data due to ongoing projects affecting the corridor.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the potential for a \"road diet\" on the east side of 175th, with officials confirming that traffic studies conducted within the last year indicate significant vehicle volumes, warranting further analysis before any changes are implemented.
The conversation also introduced a new data tool that utilizes cell phone information to track speeding patterns across Shoreline, which could aid in targeting enforcement efforts more effectively. This innovative approach aims to enhance the city’s ability to address traffic safety issues by identifying hotspots for speeding.
Overall, the meeting underscored a collective commitment among council members to prioritize traffic safety and enforcement, with plans for further studies and potential legislative actions to improve conditions on local roadways.