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Buckley to close Jefferson/Wheeler through summer for safety
Summary
Council members supported and staff agreed to post a temporary closure of Jefferson/Wheeler through the end of summer to reduce risk to children and pedestrians during events and high-activity periods; the closure will be re-evaluated in the fall.
Buckley — The Buckley City Council agreed June 23 to temporarily close Jefferson/Wheeler through the end of summer and re-evaluate the street closure in the fall, citing safety concerns during the pump track opening, carnival and concerts-in-the-park.
Council Member Smith and others emphasized a higher volume of children and pedestrians during summer events and said closure would reduce a safety risk posed by existing vehicle movements on that section. Council Member Smith described the closure as primarily a safety measure: "Personally, I'm for it until the end of summer because of all of the volume. It's safety."
City Administrator Banks said staff will notify the community that the road will be closed through the end of summer and that the council will reassess the decision in the fall. Several council members supported the approach as an interim, safety-focused step rather than a permanent vacation of the right-of-way.
Taylor Stark, identified as the Chamber President, told the council he supported the closure as a safety measure for families during events and thanked the council for taking action. The chamber purchased additional bleachers for parade seating; staff confirmed the bleachers were funded through ELAC funds.
What happens next: Administrator Banks said the city will post notice to the community about the closure and re-evaluate after the summer season; any permanent changes would require further council action.
Source: Council discussion and public comment at the June 23 meeting.
