Log Cabin Road connection removed as Olympia sponsor withdraws; regional study to consider multiuse path and road alternatives

A regional transportation matter drew extended discussion during council reports on Aug. 5 after the City of Olympia removed itself as the local sponsor for the proposed Log Cabin Road connection in the regional transportation plan. Transportation Policy Board members and Lacey officials said the item will be reframed as the “Olympia Street connectivity study” for southeast Olympia and will evaluate multiple alternatives.

Mayor Andy Ryder and members of the Transportation Policy Board explained that Olympiad’s action—withdrawal of project sponsorship—means the region must treat the issue differently in the regional transportation plan. The board recommended the connectivity study proceed and include, at minimum, an analysis of the Log Cabin Road connection and a separate alternative that considers a multiuse (bicycle/pedestrian) pathway through the LBA woods. Ryder said strong public opposition has driven controversy and pointed to the need for a broader study. “We are in a sort of unprecedented circumstance … a very passionate group of people who don't want to see the LBA woods disturbed,” he told colleagues.

Because Thurston County and the City of Lacey have invested planning resources related to the connection, Ryder said Lacey will seek to participate in and be a co‑partner for the study and is open to contributing funding. The Transportation Policy Board indicated the study’s outcome will be the basis for any future recommendation about whether to proceed with a road, a path or another alternative.

At the Aug. 5 meeting, councilmembers emphasized they want Lacey to be at the table for the study to ensure regional partners agree on assumptions, alternatives and outcomes. No final decision about building infrastructure was made at the meeting; the study will inform any future project proposals and budget requests.