Washington state officials said three agencies have partnered to provide increased access to public roadways via temporary lane allocations, enhancing pedestrian and cycling social distancing efforts.
The state’s departments of Health, Commerce, and Transportation are working to initiate the endeavor.
The Safe, Healthy and Active Streets Program provides for temporary lane reallocations on some state roadways to give walkers and cyclists greater physical distancing space while also providing greater access to businesses along what has been deemed main street highways.
“This virus has hit people and businesses hard, and we need creative solutions to mitigate the virus while also resuming necessary economic activity,” Gov. Jay Inslee said. “In most cities, a quarter of all its land is taken up by streets. I applaud the agencies’ work to ensure this land has flexible uses that can improve health and safety and jumpstart the economy.”
State officials maintain the alteration could enable municipalities to increase space for people walking or biking, or create outdoor seating for restaurants and sales areas for retailers while maintaining physical distance to help reduce virus exposure.
“A number of communities across the state have already approached us about opening parking areas or lanes in their city’s commercial district for increased open space and business access,” Secretary of Transportation Roger Millar, said. “We’re pleased to collaborate with them to find safe solutions that work for all users of the roadway.”
Officials said the Washington State Department of Transportation would work with cities and counties to evaluate roadway segments meeting
criteria for lane reallocation safe for all users.