Forks Chamber donates $3,667 for radar sign as residents press for crosswalks and speed controls

The City of Forks Council on July 13 accepted a $3,667 donation from the Forks Chamber of Commerce to purchase and install a radar feedback sign at the south end of Forks Avenue. Lissy Andros, Executive Director of the Chamber, told the Council she has “seen some of the most aggressive, intentionally dangerous behavior and driving ever at the stoplight” and said the sign is intended to encourage safer driving.

Multiple residents urged the Council to take steps on pedestrian safety. Deborah Gaydeski told the Council that “the speeding and jay walking in town is out of control,” and Jessi Olson requested that the gate at the Tillicum Park ballfields be unlocked and that crosswalk signals be installed at every crosswalk on Forks and Spartan Avenues. Clerk/Treasurer Caryn DePew said the city’s solar speed signs will arrive by Friday and be mounted by Public Works, and suggested crosswalk signs might qualify for payment from lodging tax funds.

Council Member Patel, speaking as a community member rather than in his official capacity, offered to match the Chamber donation. Police Chief Rowley said he supports signage and awareness efforts rather than increased ticketing, arguing that “better informing those coming into town of speed changes would be more effective.” Council discussion noted that Forks Avenue/Hwy 101 is under Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) jurisdiction, and Councilor Soha urged the community to press WSDOT for speed reductions and signal changes.