Residents urge immediate traffic-calming at Cole and Stevenson after fatal crash

Several Enumclaw residents used public comment on June 22 to press the city for faster action to improve safety at the Cole and Stevenson intersection after a January collision that later proved fatal.

One resident asked for an update on efforts for that intersection and for pedestrian funding, saying a person who had been struck in January "passed away" and that the neighborhood needs action to prevent more deaths. A second speaker, a veteran, urged enforcement and physical changes: "We need lights to stop the speeders that ... have their phone in their ear and not paying attention," he said, and suggested speed enforcement measures and signage.

Resident Nora Tackenboge asked whether lower-cost temporary measures—such as high-visibility handheld flags or other visual cues—could be deployed while the city seeks funding for permanent improvements, saying, "I just hope that... Eileen's death wasn't in vain." Another longtime resident urged the council to reconsider prior denials for traffic-calming on Rilla and Melody Lanes, highlighted missing ADA curb ramps, and warned that through-traffic and on-street parking reduce visibility and increase risk for children and pedestrians.

Councilmember Shorten (public safety) provided committee context during committee reports, noting a pending ordinance relating to electric motorcycles and a new state e-bike law; he also said "Block camera updates will be operational by mid-July," indicating one near-term data-collection and enforcement resource.

No specific council action on Cole and Stevenson was recorded during the meeting; the remarks were taken during the public-comment period and staff were asked to follow up as appropriate.