Washougal seeks input on new shared-use path

The city of Washougal is seeking public input for its proposal to build a shared path on South 27th Street. The public can submit comments online at rtc.wa.gov/programs/tap/projects through Friday, April 21. The City has applied for a transportation alternatives grant through the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council (RTC) to help fund the project, which will provide a “dedicated, separated shared-use path” on South 27th Street, according to a news release. According to the city’s news release, “the proposed project expands the bicycle and pedestrian facility connectivity within Washougal and the region, and furthers a safe and cohesive active transportation network.” “Currently there are no existing bicycle and pedestrian facilities connecting eastern Washougal to the Captain William Clark Park and the dike trail,” the news release explained. “These recreational facilities are heavily used by the community year-round. This project will close an active transportation gap and provide a safe multi-modal connection.” The project will include stormwater improvements, the construction of a paved, multi-use path on the east side of the road and a conduit for future fiber optic facilities; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements; a crosswalk; and a rectangular rapid flashing beacon to provide safe crossing on Index Street. “(The) proposed complete street improvements will create a more equitable environment for users of all abilities,” city leaders stated in the news release. The existing lack of active transportation facilities introduces challenges for non-motorized travel between the residential areas in eastern Washougal and the recreational areas by the Columbia River. According to the news release: “The existing roadway has two lanes and is approximately 32 feet wide with no existing bicycle or pedestrian improvements and narrow shoulders. The existing roadway is the sole roadway which crosses under State Route-14 to the Captain William Clark Park from eastern Washougal. A roundabout on SR-14 at 32nd Avenue is the only other crossing option, but it is a four-lane high-speed, high-volume freeway."

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