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Public commenter urges BPAC to back TIP 741 on Evergreen Highway after recent deaths
Summary
A representative from the Old Evergreen Historical Trail group asked BPAC for a letter of support for TIP project 741 on Evergreen Highway, citing multiple fatalities and urging a separated multi‑use path; city and county staff explained the project is on Vancouver's list but unfunded and outlined next steps for public advocacy.
Mariss Watson, representing the Old Evergreen Historical Trail organization, used the BPAC public‑comment period on May 26 to press committee members to support TIP project 741 — a proposed multi‑use path on Evergreen Highway — and asked whether BPAC could consider a letter of support at a future meeting.
Watson said state data indicate an expected annual rate of serious injury or death on that corridor and recounted that "last year we had three people die and two people get seriously injured," urging separation of pedestrians and bicyclists from high‑speed traffic to reduce crashes. She described the TIP listing for 741 as currently unfunded and said a letter of support would strengthen grant applications and push the city and RTC to reprioritize funding.
City of Vancouver transportation planner Brett Sutterfield confirmed the project segment is on Vancouver's project list but is currently unfunded. He recommended Watson raise the issue at the Transportation Mobility Commission public‑comment period (next Tuesday at City Hall) and also urged direct correspondence to city council as effective ways to build visible local support.
Committee Chair David Zilly and BPAC members clarified the committee's advisory role — noting BPAC advises Clark County and the region and can discuss possible actions at a future agenda. Harrison (county staff) indicated staff can summarize pathways for possible committee involvement and follow up on a formal process for letters of support.
What happens next: Watson asked the committee to consider adding the request as a future action item so members can decide whether to draft a letter of support. No formal action was taken at the May 26 meeting; staff forwarded Watson's correspondence to city and regional contacts and suggested advocacy at the Transportation Mobility Commission and city council.
