Kirkland plans tree removal and bike lane expansion on Central Way

The Kirkland City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, focused on addressing critical infrastructure issues along Central Way, particularly between Peterkirk Lane and Third Street. The discussion highlighted the need to remove aging poplar trees that pose safety risks and have compromised drainage in the adjacent Peter Lee Johnson Field.

City officials outlined several opportunities arising from the tree removal. First, the space freed up could be utilized to fill a significant gap in the existing bike lane network, enhancing safety for cyclists and pedestrians. This aligns with the city's vision for improved active transportation. Additionally, the removal of the trees allows for the planting of more suitable urban trees, contributing to the visual appeal of the area.

The meeting also addressed ongoing projects that could complement these improvements. Construction of a shared path from Sixth Street to 114th Avenue is set to begin soon, which will connect downtown Kirkland to a new bus rapid transit interchange. Furthermore, developments at the U.S. Bank location will include frontage improvements that feature a bike lane, creating a cohesive transportation network.

Stakeholders identified during the meeting included end users (bikers and pedestrians), city council members, parks and recreation officials, transportation planners, and the city manager's office. Each group has specific goals, such as optimizing biking and walking experiences, preserving street parking, and ensuring easy maintenance of new facilities.

Three alternatives for the bike lane configuration were proposed. The first option would replace existing parking spaces with a bike lane but would not include tree replanting. The second option would preserve parking by relocating the bike lane to a raised path, allowing for some tree replanting. The third alternative aims to maintain both the parking lane and the existing fence without impacting either, although it would require adjustments to the bike lane and sidewalk widths.

The council emphasized the importance of community outreach regarding any changes to the fencing around the field, as this could raise concerns about park encroachment. The meeting concluded with plans to evaluate the proposed alternatives further, ensuring that the final decision aligns with the community's needs and safety standards.