Mercer Island Seeking Replacement for Transportation Engineer

Lia Klien, the city's former Transportation Engineer, has taken a position with the City of Seattle. According to Jason Kitner, the city's Chief of Operations, the city is in the "midst of hiring a new Transportation Engineer now".   We wish Lia well in her new position. 

Dangerous Tracks on Burke-Gilman Trail To Be Paved Over

 Dangerous section of tracks in Ballard has been source of numerous accidents and law suits.  

Washington Bikes and Transportation for Washington Endorse MI Candidates

Transportation advocacy groups Washing Bikes and Transportation for Washington (T4WA) have endorsed Craig Reynolds, Wendy Welker, and David Rosenbaum for Mercer Island City Council.  

"Transportation for Washington endorses candidates throughout Washington State that support creating healthy, safe and affordable communities connected by transit, walking, and biking programs."

Washington Bikes's "endorsement and support are given to candidates who commit to or have a record of making communities better for people on bikes — through growing local economies, improving health outcomes, or creating safer streets and roadways. "

The East Lake Sammamish Trail is Now Open!

This 11-mile, paved trail is a critical part of the 44-mile Locks to Lakes Corridor from Golden Gardens Park in Ballard to the shores of Lake Sammamish and beyond. 

Bike Skills Area Construction Beginning Soon

Work is progressing on the Island's Bike Skills Area. The City's contractor, American Ramp Company, is ready to kick off construction this week to build the new Bike Skills Area at Deane’s Children’s Park. Islanders should be aware that parking areas at Deane’s and Island Crest Park will be impacted periodically throughout construction, and access to the playground areas at Deane’s is limited - please plan accordingly. You can learn more about this work and see the design for the new Bike Skills Area on Let’s Talk. Information about Mercer Islands Mountain Biking Team can be found here.

NIM At Sunday's Farmers" Market

Many Islanders stopped by NIM's information booth at the Mercer Island Farmers' Market on Sunday, October 1.  

One theme dominated our conversations: cycling, especially with e-bikes, is on the increase and the city needs to provide safer bike routes around the island.   Island Crest Way, particularly south of Island Park School, was a major concern for parents and those living on the south end.  

Many cyclists felt that clear directions and better signage were needed at revised intersections and the roundabout at the north end. 

My Bike Was Stolen! Now What?

The best way to deal with bike theft is to prevent it happening which means using a good lock. Other steps to protect your bike and what to do if it is stolen are concisely listed on the Cascade Bicycle Club's website.  You will find information about registering your bike in advance and who to contact to recover a stolen bike.