Jack Chambers advocates for bike accessibility in Sammamish Town Center expansion debate

During the Sammamish City Council meeting on July 15, 2025, a passionate plea for improved biking infrastructure and town center development took center stage. Jack Chambers, a local resident and computer science major at UW Bothell, presented compelling data showing that 50% of Sammamish residents can bike to the town center in just 18 minutes. He emphasized the importance of transportation options, particularly as congestion in the area continues to rise.

Chambers highlighted that biking is a viable option for many, with students from local high schools able to reach the town center in as little as six to seven minutes. However, he expressed frustration over the current biking conditions, pointing out that the existing sharrows on busy streets are unsafe for cyclists traveling at 35 miles per hour. "Have any of you guys ever biked at 35 miles an hour in a sharrow? It’s not fun," he remarked, urging the council to consider safer biking solutions.

In addition to biking, Chambers addressed concerns about the town center's expansion, which has sparked mixed reactions from the community. He shared feedback from a recent Nextdoor post, where he faced criticism for his views but also received support for the idea that a well-developed town center could enhance affordability and reduce pollution. "If you care about affordability and you're worried about those $800,000 condos, you want this town center because it will decrease the cost of living," he argued.

The meeting also featured public comments opposing the town center expansion, with residents voicing concerns about potential negative impacts on wildlife, pollution, and school enrollments. As the council continues to navigate these discussions, the future of Sammamish's transportation and development plans remains a hot topic, with residents eager for solutions that balance growth with community needs.