Trucks, trains and bicycles: Seeking safe co-existence in south Seattle

Posted by Daphne Y. Jefferson

 

Seattle’s industrial district in the south of the city is one of our nation’s busiest intermodal transportation hubs.  To someone new to the Pacific Northwest, the area South of Downtown –known locally as “SoDo”– would seem an unlikely first choice as an ideal spot for a relaxing bicycle ride or leisurely stroll. 

But an increasing number of bicyclists and pedestrians are looking for connections between SoDo and downtown, and finding ways to protect their safety as they navigate a sea of freight activity is important.

One year ago this week, Secretary Foxx announced the “Safer People, Safer Streets - Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Initiative,” and one of the first steps in that initiative called for DOT field offices to lead non-motorized traffic, road-safety assessments in cities across the country.  I am proud that the Washington State Division of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration answered that call, leading a DOT team with folks from NHTSA, FHWA, and FTA in an assessment of the safety challenges facing bicyclists and pedestrians along the SoDo commuter route.

 

You can read more on our Fast Lane blog.

 

DOT's Seattle assessment team, from left to right: Max Sevareid (NHTSA), Kirk Gillett (NHTSA), Jeremy Borrego (FTA), Jeff James (FMCSA), Brian Wood (Univ. of Washington graduate student)