Issaquah Council Addresses North South Traffic Congestion and Resident Concerns

In a recent meeting of the Issaquah City Council Committee of the Whole, council members engaged in a detailed discussion about the pressing issue of traffic flow within the city. The meeting, held on July 17, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the North-South traffic routes, which many residents find increasingly congested and unpredictable.

The council identified three key areas of high importance and low satisfaction related to traffic flow, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of residents' experiences. Members noted that uncertainty about travel times contributes significantly to frustration, particularly during peak hours. Suggestions included utilizing reader boards to provide real-time traffic updates, which could help residents make informed decisions about their routes.

Council members shared anecdotal evidence from constituents, revealing that residents in various neighborhoods, such as the Highlands and Old Town, experience traffic challenges differently. For instance, one council member recounted a neighbor's struggle to commute from East Lake Sammamish State Park to Talus, which can take up to 30 minutes due to heavy traffic. This variability in traffic experiences underscores the need for targeted solutions.

The discussion also touched on the historical context of traffic management in Issaquah. Council members recalled past decisions, such as the rejection of a bypass plan over 15 years ago, which has left the city grappling with unresolved traffic issues. This historical perspective suggests that the current traffic congestion is not merely a recent development but rather a long-standing challenge that has been inadequately addressed.

While the focus was primarily on vehicular traffic, some council members raised the importance of considering alternative transportation methods, such as biking and public transit. However, the consensus was that these options may not fully alleviate the traffic burden, especially given the region's weather conditions, which often discourage walking or biking.

As the meeting concluded, council members expressed a desire to gather more data on traffic patterns and perceptions. They acknowledged the need for a comprehensive approach to address both the reality of traffic flow and the perceptions that residents hold about their commuting experiences. The committee plans to continue exploring potential solutions in future meetings, aiming to enhance the overall transportation experience for Issaquah residents.