Newport Way’s drainage ditches devour vehicles on icy days. On rainy days, Sunset Way’s gravel shoulders and insufficient stormwater collection results in flooding, loose rock and mud on the street.

Newport Way’s helter-skelter bike lanes creates nervous uncertainty between drivers and bicyclists. Sunset Way’s sidewalks continue to deteriorate. Crosswalks are terrible. Left turns onto Newport Way can be treacherous in afternoon traffic. Left turns from Providence Point onto 43rd Way are dangerous due to the sharp road bend and steep hill. None of these existing conditions are “family friendly” or safe for our community.

I plan to vote yes for Issaquah’s $50 million transportation bond, which supports public safety and functional improvements on some of our most important arterials. Additionally, I believe the four projects will enhance our community at a relatively low cost of $150 per year per average home. The city should have constructed some of these projects long ago, but that’s “water under the bridge.” Now is the time to move forward.

Transportation benefits from the projects include:

1) Multi-modal features such as Newport Way bike lanes, Sunset Way sidewalks without trip hazards, and ADA accessibility will enhance our quality of life.

2) Public safety will vastly improve by eliminating dangerous turning movements, removing deep drainage ditches and installing curbs for pedestrian protection.

3) Enhanced streetscapes and appearance will boost nearby property values and establish a desirable Sunset Way entrance into historic downtown.

4) Addition of a second Newport Way southbound travel lane will increase the likelihood King County obtains state/federal grant funding to add a third lane on Issaquah Hobart Road to mitigate congestion.

5) New features such as upgraded crosswalks, improved lighting, and traffic calming roundabouts will also improve public safety. Please consider joining me in voting yes.

Mark Rigos

Issaquah