I believe the traffic bond (Proposition 1) is poorly named. I keep hearing people say that, “It won’t solve our traffic problems, especially on Front Street.” As a supporter of Prop. 1, I have to agree. But the bond is not just about solving traffic, it’s more about improving public safety and inner-city mobility. Every day, I drive many of the roads on the docket for improvement and I can tell you that at times it’s difficult to navigate them. Turning left onto Newport Way from Juniper or Holly can be challenging, and trying to turn right onto Front Street from Sunset can take a long, long time. Improving the intersection at Providence Point will make it safer for our older population and with the approval of this bond, the city will be able to address the issues that led to the tragic death of a 4-year-old last year on Newport Way Northwest.

This traffic bond was thought through thoroughly for months by committed Issaquah citizens with safety and mobility in mind. Believe me, as the owner of many commercial properties in Issaquah, I always dread property tax increases. However, for these four projects, I recognize the need and believe that they will help our community greatly.

The opposition also recognizes the need as they consistently express that these are long overdue projects. They are right. So it’s time to stop saying no and time to start saying yes. I urge my fellow Issaquah residents to join me and vote yes for Proposition 1.

Keith Watts

Issaquah