27-by-27 crossing across Francis narrows to three options; neighborhood feedback favors Belt and Cannon

Jackson, who identified himself as an assistant to Councilmember Zac Zephon, briefed the Bicycle Advisory Board on a recent neighborhood workshop about the 27-by-27 bicycle network and where that loop should cross Francis. He presented three possible crossings: Fotheringham (west, more out of the way and lower traffic), Belt (leverages existing bike infrastructure near Shadle High School) and Cannon (aligns with a shopping center and an existing parcel owned by the water department that might ease construction but raises driveway conflict concerns).

Jackson said workshop participants generally preferred Belt and Cannon because they are closer to existing destinations and feel more usable; he noted safety worries at Cannon because multiple shopping-center driveways concentrate turning movements where the crossing would be located. Jackson said each of the three options could include a HAWK-style signal or pedestrian hybrid beacon, but public feedback had favored a PHB and a median treatment at Belt to limit through traffic and improve safety.

Staff said the Transportation Commission would consider recommendations the next day and that council action would follow in the coming weeks; Jackson asked members to send personal comments to Tyler, who would collate and forward them. Members discussed connections to schools, transit (STA route adjustments mentioned), the ability of the city to work with the state on Francis (it is a state route, but staff said the city has leverage), and the timeline for funding and council votes. Jackson said comments would be most useful before Dec. 8 so staff could include them in the commission and council process.

No formal board recommendation was taken during this meeting; staff emphasized the period for neighborhood input and urged members to provide written feedback.