Vision Zero

A new "Target Zero" safety roadmap for reducing serious injuries and fatalities on Washington's roads includes some clear, evidence-based recommendations. But implementation could be challenging given political realities.

Washington State's transportation chief Roger Millar is out after eight years, as Governor-elect Bob Ferguson prepares to take office. Widely recognized as a leader in progressive transportation policy, Millar will be tough to replace.

King County Metro is testing out on-board cameras that capture license plates in order to issue citations for violations of bus only lanes. It's the first transit agency in Washington to try out this technology.

Saka is pushing to earmark $2 million in existing funding to remove a hardened barrier on Delridge Way SW, providing left turn access to a preschool used by Rob Saka's family. The proviso is apparently Saka's top priority this budget, but would reduce street safety.

Recently completed Bremerton street projects have fallen well short of modern safety standards. The projects fail to shorten crosswalk distances, slow traffic speed, or protect cyclists with more than paint.

The Bike Bellevue plan was set to repurpose a lane on a minor downtown street to create a safe space for people on bikes. Then Kemper Development got involved.

Cyclist Steve Hulsman died after being struck by an SUV in West Seattle on December 21. His widow, Rita Hulsman, urges Seattle residents to vote YES on the Keep Seattle Moving levy to prevent future deaths.

Tacoma's $900,000 budget for Vision Zero is set to be slashed to $90,000 as the City prioritizes other areas for funding, leaving the Grit City without a dedicated revenue source for safety upgrades.