On January 16, a group of people responded to Jim Charlier’s request to have a representative group of bicyclists who use the Bainbridge ferry comment on some possible design options to truth test them before presenting something to the larger community.
As it turned out, despite winter driving conditions and having to meet in the middle of the day, a broadly representative yet conversation sized group was able to attend. Participants included Dana Berg, Timothy Witten, Mark Petrie, Norm Woldridge, Jeff Groman, Cris Beatie, Dennis Vogt, Sandy Fischer, and me.
Kirk Robinson was unable to attend, but sent comments to me, which I forwarded to Jim prior to the meeting. These were helpful to Jim as an indication that the designs he was considering were in sync with at least one cyclist. I think discussion showed Kirks comments were fairly representative. I’ve reproduced them with only some formatting changes fore readability. Click this link to read Kirk’s comments: Robinson 1-16-07.pdf
Jim came with materials including a drawing prepared by Van Meter, Williams, Pollack which showed some possible designs. Jim shared his understanding that there are four main routes cyclists would want to have well designed: west via waterfront trail, left via Olympic Drive/Winslow Way, straight north on State Route 305, east/ north via a right turn at SR 305 or up through the existing terminal to Ferncliff.
I have included a photo of this design drawing so others can see what the group was responding to for discussion. Click on the drawing image below to download a large image which can be zoomed.
One of particular note was a bicycle only left turn lane of the sort used in europe. This would be a safer alternative to one frequent current practice of riding the centerline up to Winslow Way. In discussion, it was agreed that this would be an excellent design. It was also agreed that such a left turn bike lane should merge with motor vehicle traffic just before to the intersection to make for the safest turning situation.
Another design option to note is the idea of a pedestrian tunnel going east-west just south of Winslow Way. Jim said such a tunnel would need to be very open and well lighted to feel safe and attractive.
In general, Jim suggests a number of ways for pedestrians to cross Olympic Drive separated by grade from motor vehicles.
Worth perhaps mentioning for someone viewing the drawing that the group felt the drawing of a facility in the southwest corner at Olympic Drive & Winslow Way is more formal or urban than folks on Bainbridge would prefer.
Session 1-16-07 w/ Jim Charlier
re. ferry terminal area
bicycle design options
