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Active Transportation Plan 2025
City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan Council Adoption December 15, 2025 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page ii Table of Contents 01 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 6 Stakeholder Committee ................................................................................................................ 6 Thank you to Past Volunteers ...................................................................................................... 7 What is Active Transportation? And Why is It Important to Plan for It?.................................... 9 Purpose and Content of the Plan ..................................................................................................... 9 Goals ............................................................................................................................................ 10 The 7 E's .......................................................................................................................................... 11 Coordinated Plans Under Development ........................................................................................ 11 Key Milestones ............................................................................................................................ 12 Planning Process ............................................................................................................................ 16 Why Update the Plan? ..................................................................................................................... 16 Drivers of the Update .................................................................................................................. 16 People, Planet, and Prosperity ................................................................................................... 17 02 Public Engagement ............................................................................................... 18 Outreach Timeline ....................................................................................................................... 19 Survey Highlights (June–September 2024) .............................................................................. 19 In-Person Highlights (July 2024–March 2025) ......................................................................... 22 03 Brief History, Inventory, and Current Challenges ................................................... 27 Active Transportation Planning History ........................................................................................ 27 Existing Conditions and Challenges .............................................................................................. 27 Existing Conditions ..................................................................................................................... 27 Why Port Townsend’s Streets and Sidewalks Look the Way They Do? .................................. 28 Pre-Platted vs. Post 1937 Platted Development ...................................................................... 30 Inventory ...................................................................................................................................... 32 Existing Challenges......................................................................................................................... 34 Existing Opportunities .................................................................................................................... 34 Key Challenges Moving Forward ............................................................................................... 34 04 Feasible and Practical Approach ........................................................................... 36 Four Important Strategies .............................................................................................................. 36 Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes ............................................................................................... 37 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page iii Strategy 2 - Connected Routes ................................................................................................... 38 Strategy 3 – Recreational Trail System ..................................................................................... 41 Strategy 4 – Culture .................................................................................................................... 42 Technology and Trends .................................................................................................................. 44 Enforcement using Speed Safety Cameras and Equity ............................................................ 44 E-Mobility and Micromobility ...................................................................................................... 48 Low-Cost, High-Benefit Solutions .............................................................................................. 48 Golf Carts ..................................................................................................................................... 54 Traffic Calming ............................................................................................................................ 55 Placemaking ................................................................................................................................ 57 05 Design Guidelines ................................................................................................. 62 Referenced Guides and Standards ................................................................................................ 62 WSDOT & Statewide Guidance....................................................................................................... 64 Washington State Active Transportation Plan: 2020 and Beyond (2021) .............................. 64 WSDOT Active Transportation Programs Design Guide (February 2024) .............................. 65 WSDOT Design Manual (Selected Chapters) ............................................................................ 65 Guidance from the National/Federal Level ................................................................................... 66 MUTCD ......................................................................................................................................... 66 AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) ................ 66 NACTO (National Association of City Transportation Officials) ............................................. 66 FHWA Small Town and Rural Multimodal Networks ................................................................ 67 Criteria for the Four Strategies....................................................................................................... 68 Strategy 1 - ADA Priority Routes ................................................................................................ 68 Strategy 2 - Connected Routes ................................................................................................... 68 Shared Streets and Neighborhood Greenways ......................................................................... 68 Strategy 3 - Recreational Trails .................................................................................................. 69 Strategy 4 - Culture...................................................................................................................... 69 Level of Traffic Stress .................................................................................................................... 70 Safe Routes to Schools .................................................................................................................. 72 Concurrency .................................................................................................................................... 77 Port Townsend Municipal Code Chapter 12.04 ........................................................................ 77 Examples of Multimodal Concurrency ...................................................................................... 78 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page iv 06 Coordinated Plans ................................................................................................ 82 Washington’s Growth Management Act ....................................................................................... 83 Regional and County Policy ............................................................................................................ 84 Peninsula RTPO Transportation Plan (Ongoing – Expected October 2025) .......................... 84 Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan ..................................................................................... 85 Jefferson County Non-Motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan (2010) ........ 86 Jefferson County Parks, Recreation, Trails, and Open Space Plan (2022-2028) ................... 86 City and Local Planning Efforts...................................................................................................... 87 Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan ........................................................................................ 87 Port Townsend Complete Streets Policy ................................................................................... 88 Comprehensive Streets Program ............................................................................................... 88 Port Townsend Municipal Code ................................................................................................. 88 ADA Transition Plan .................................................................................................................... 88 Local Road Safety Plan ............................................................................................................... 90 Safe Routes to Schools .............................................................................................................. 90 Port Townsend’s Engineering Design Standards ..................................................................... 90 Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan (2020) ............................................ 90 07 Plan Framework: Goals & Policies ......................................................................... 91 Goals ................................................................................................................................................ 92 Goal 1 – Connectivity .................................................................................................................. 92 Goal 2 – Opportunity ................................................................................................................... 92 Goal 3 – Partnership ................................................................................................................... 92 Goal 4 – Participation ................................................................................................................. 92 Goal 5 – Safety ............................................................................................................................ 92 Policies ............................................................................................................................................ 93 Actions ............................................................................................................................................. 99 1. Build and Connect the Network ............................................................................................. 99 2. Prioritize Key Investments ...................................................................................................... 99 3. Design and Maintenance Standards...................................................................................... 99 4. Development Standards and Land Use Integration ........................................................... 100 5. Equity and Access ................................................................................................................ 100 6. Partnerships and Coordination ........................................................................................... 100 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page v 7. Safety, Design, and User Experience .................................................................................. 100 8. Sidewalks, Frontage, and Maintenance .............................................................................. 100 9. Education and Enforcement ................................................................................................ 101 Implementation Matrix ................................................................................................................ 101 08 Implementation ................................................................................................... 103 Bringing the Previous Plan Forward ....................................................................................... 103 General Transportation Standards Action Items ....................................................................... 105 Four Strategies ......................................................................................................................... 106 Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes ................................................................................................ 108 Strategy 2 – Connected Routes .................................................................................................. 119 Strategy 3 – Recreational Trails ................................................................................................. 126 Strategy 4 – Culture ..................................................................................................................... 133 Enforcement ............................................................................................................................. 133 Street Parking: .......................................................................................................................... 134 Sidewalk and bike lane maintenance in the winter ................................................................ 134 User Respect for One Another ................................................................................................. 134 Mapping/Inventory/Monitoring ............................................................................................... 135 09 Partnerships & Coordination ............................................................................... 139 DASH ............................................................................................................................................. 139 Tribe Involvement in čičməhán Trail .......................................................................................... 141 Creative District ............................................................................................................................ 141 Peninsula Trails Coalition ............................................................................................................ 141 PT Main Street.............................................................................................................................. 141 Local 2020 .................................................................................................................................... 141 Jefferson Land Trust ................................................................................................................... 142 10 Funding Strategies .............................................................................................. 143 Fee in Lieu Program ..................................................................................................................... 143 Transportation Benefit District ................................................................................................... 143 How is the TBD fund being used? ........................................................................................... 144 Washington State Transportation Grants .................................................................................. 144 Federal Transportation Grants .................................................................................................... 146 11 Summary & Conclusions ..................................................................................... 147 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page vi Appendices .............................................................................................................. 148 Appendix A: Public Outreach Results ....................................................................... 149 Survey Results .............................................................................................................................. 149 Current Active Transportation Routes vs. Future/Desired Active Transportation Routes . 152 Locations of Desired Amenities & Noted Problem Areas ..................................................... 153 Demographic Survey .................................................................................................................... 157 January 2025 Open House .......................................................................................................... 161 March 2025 Open House............................................................................................................. 188 September 2025 Open House ..................................................................................................... 196 Appendix B: Traffic Calming Examples .................................................................... 221 Speed Humps ........................................................................................................................... 221 Traffic Islands .......................................................................................................................... 222 Street Plantings ........................................................................................................................ 223 Edge Lane Roads ..................................................................................................................... 224 Curb Extensions ....................................................................................................................... 224 Pedestrian Refuges .................................................................................................................. 225 Chicanes ................................................................................................................................... 226 Appendix C: Speed Safety Camera Guide ................................................................. 227 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page vii Table of Exhibits Exhibit 1: Photos of Past Volunteer Trail Work Parties...................................................................... 7 Exhibit 2: 1988 Council Minutes – Beginning of Non-Motorized Plan ............................................ 12 Exhibit 3: 1998 Non-Motorized Transportation Plan ........................................................................ 13 Exhibit 4: 1998/2011 Active Transportation Plan Map .................................................................... 14 Exhibit 5: People, Planet, and Prosperity ........................................................................................... 17 Exhibit 6:With limited funds, which type of transportation infrastructure do you prefer? ............. 20 Exhibit 7: Where do you feel comfortable biking or rolling? Check all that apply. ......................... 20 Exhibit 8: Future/Desired Active Transportation ....................................................................... 21 Exhibit 9: Desired Bike Parking .......................................................................................................... 21 Exhibit 10: January 2025 Open House Attendees .......................................................................... 23 Exhibit 11: March 2025 Open House Attendees ............................................................................. 24 Exhibit 12: September 2025 Open House Poster .......................................................................... 26 Exhibit 13: September 2025 Open House Attendees .................................................................... 26 Exhibit 14: An Example of Aging Streets within Port Townsend ..................................................... 28 Exhibit 15: An Example of a WPA Sidewalk in Uptown (1937 – 1938) ........................................... 29 Exhibit 16: Pre-Platted Port Townsend, ............................................................................................. 31 Exhibit 17: A Sample Streetscape in the Madrona Ridge Neighborhood ....................................... 32 Exhibit 18: Existing Active Transportation Network ......................................................................... 33 Exhibit 19: Unmaintained Frontage and Parking ............................................................................. 43 Exhibit 20: Speed Safety Cameras Allowed Locations in Washington State ................................. 45 Exhibit 21: Expected Revenue per Camera, based on other Cities in Washington State ............... 46 Exhibit 22: WSDOT Equity Needs Map .............................................................................................. 47 Exhibit 23: Traffic Calming on Rose Street ....................................................................................... 49 Exhibit 24: Edge Lane Road in North Beach ...................................................................................... 49 Exhibit 25: Seattle Bike Corral at Pikes Market ................................................................................ 50 Exhibit 26: Seattle Separated Bike Lane with Flex Tubes ................................................................ 50 Exhibit 27: Seattle Protected “Better Bike Lane” and “Neighborhood Walkway” Programs.......... 51 Exhibit 28: Low Speed Electric Vehicles ........................................................................................... 54 Exhibit 29: Benefits Provided by High Performance Public Spaces ............................................... 58 Exhibit 30: Design Guides ................................................................................................................... 63 Exhibit 31: Acceptable Pedestrian Facilities (LTS 1 or 2) ................................................................ 70 Exhibit 32: Acceptable Bike Facilities (LTS 1 or 2) ........................................................................... 71 Exhibit 33: The Port Townsend Schools with One Mile Radius ....................................................... 73 Exhibit 34: Safe Routes To School .................................................................................................... 74 Exhibit 35: Safe Routes To School .................................................................................................... 75 Exhibit 36: Safe Routes To School .................................................................................................... 76 Exhibit 37: Policies Matrix .................................................................................................................. 93 Exhibit 38: Implementation Matrix.................................................................................................. 102 Exhibit 39: Signature Routes ........................................................................................................... 104 Exhibit 40: General Engineering Action Items................................................................................ 106 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page viii Exhibit 41: Combined Four Strategy Active Transportation Plan ................................................. 107 Exhibit 42: Overall ADA Priority Routes Map ................................................................................. 109 Exhibit 43: SE (Downtown /Uptown) ADA Priority Projects Map ................................................. 110 Exhibit 44: SW (Castle Hill) ADA Priority Projects Map ........................................................ 111 Exhibit 45: NW (N. of Hastings, W of San Juan) ADA Priority Projects Map ............................... 112 Exhibit 46: NE (Fort Worden / North Beach) ADA Priority Projects Map ..................................... 113 Exhibit 47: ADA Sidewalk Planning Costs ...................................................................................... 114 Exhibit 48: High Priority ADA Projects - SE Quadrant (Uptown/Downtown) ............................... 114 Exhibit 49: High Priority ADA Projects - SW Quadrant (Castle Hill) .............................................. 115 Exhibit 50: High Priority ADA Projects - NW Quadrant (N of Hastings, W of San Juan) ............. 116 Exhibit 51: High Priority ADA Projects - NE Quadrant (Fort Worden and North Beach) ............. 117 Exhibit 52: Other ADA Projects - SE Quadrant (Uptown/Downtown) ........................................... 117 Exhibit 53: Other ADA Projects - SW Quadrant (Castle Hill) ......................................................... 118 Exhibit 54: Other ADA Projects - NW Quadrant (N of Hastings, W of San Juan) ........................ 119 Exhibit 55: Other ADA Projects - NE Quadrant (Fort Worden and North Beach) ......................... 119 Exhibit 56: Overall Connected Routes Map .............................................................................. 120 Exhibit 57: SE (Downtown /Uptown) Connected Routes Map ...................................................... 121 Exhibit 58: SW (Castle Hill) Connected Routes Map ..................................................................... 122 Exhibit 59: NW (N. of Hastings, W of San Juan) Connected Routes Map ................................... 123 Exhibit 60: NE (Fort Worden / North Beach) Connected Routes Map ......................................... 124 Exhibit 61: Connected Routes Summary ........................................................................................ 125 Exhibit 62: Connected Routes Planning Costs .............................................................................. 125 Exhibit 63: Connected Routes Projects .......................................................................................... 126 Exhibit 64: Interim Hastings Trail ................................................................................................... 126 Exhibit 65: Future Connected Routes Projects (5 to 10 Years) .................................................... 126 Exhibit 66: Overall Recreational Trails Map ................................................................................... 127 Exhibit 67: SE (Downtown /Uptown) Recreational Trails Map ............................................ 128 Exhibit 68: SW (Castle Hill) Recreational Trails Map .................................................................... 129 Exhibit 69: NW (N. of Hastings, W of San Juan) Recreational Trails Map ................................... 130 Exhibit 70: NE (Fort Worden / North Beach) Recreational Trails Map ......................................... 131 Exhibit 71: Recreational Trail Implementation ............................................................................... 132 Exhibit 72: 2004 Port Townsend Walking Map .............................................................................. 135 Exhibit 73: 2004 Port Townsend Walking Map .............................................................................. 136 Exhibit 74: Cicemehan Trail Map .................................................................................................... 137 Exhibit 75: 2003 Quimper Peninsula Bicycle Map ......................................................................... 138 Exhibit 76: Coordinated Trail Action Items .................................................................................... 138 Exhibit 77: Map of Accessible Port Townsend (July 2016) .......................................................... 140 Executive Summary Port Townsend’s historic character and unique geography have shaped how people move through the community. However, with an aging infrastructure system and periods of limited economic investment, the city lacks the sidewalks, bike lanes, and overall connectivity needed to support safe and convenient walking, biking, and rolling. Steep terrain, such as Morgan Hill, adds further challenges to creating a fully connected network. As Port Townsend grows and traffic increases, active transportation is becoming increasingly vital for safety, access, and overall quality of life. With limited resources and one of the highest median ages in Washington at 59.4 years, the city must prioritize investments carefully and strategically. Building on the original 1998 Non-motorized plan, this Active Transportation Plan responds to community’s desire to create connected routes. Drawing from best practices in the latest design and guidance manuals, the plan identifies long-term priorities for ADA improvements such as sidewalks along key routes, while also focusing on shared streets and connected routes that can benefit from short- term and incremental improvements that can be delivered within constrained budgets. In keeping with other successful communities, Port Townsend embraces the philosophy of “don’t let perfection be the enemy of good.” The plan is built on robust community input gathered through multiple in-person and virtual outreach events. Residents expressed the need for safer crossings, improved connections between neighborhoods, schools, and downtown, and better access to trails and the waterfront. Together, these strategies create a “right-sized”, diverse approach to active transportation, one that acknowledges the city’s constraints, builds on its strengths, and charts a realistic path toward a more connected, safe, and accessible Port Townsend for all ages and abilities. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page ii Definitions TERM MEANING ACCESSIBILITY A measure of transportation mobility; as technically calculated, total travel time between areas weighted by the number of services and activities available at a given location. The term “accessibility” also sometimes refers to ADA accessibility. ADA-ACCESSIBLE Facilities that meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, federal legislation passed in 1990 that protects against discrimination based on disability. ADA priority routes should follow the latest version of the Public Right-of-way Accessibilities Guidelines (PROWAG). ADA PRIORITY ROUTE Routes defined in this plan to provide ADA-accessible facilities as determined in coordination with Disability Awareness Starts Here (DASH) and public input. ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION Using a human-scale and often human-powered means of travel to get from one place to another; includes walking, bicycling, using a mobility assistive or adaptive device such as a ¬wheelchair or walker, using micromobility devices, and using electric-assist devices such as e-bikes and e-foot scooters. BICYCLING OR CYCLING Includes use of various forms of bicycles and tricycles, both those propelled solely by human power and electric-assisted bicycles/tricycles. CALMED STREET A street that acts or is designed to operate at or below the posted speed. Narrowing or other traffic calming devices may be required, as needed. CONNECTED ROUTE A term to describe a continuous route as identified in this plan to provide transportation and recreational opportunities connecting trails, paths, and shared neighborhood streets to serve most ages and abilities. Connected routes are not intended to serve as ADA compliant routes and may have conflicts or grades not meeting the Public Right-of-way Accessibilities Guidelines (PROWAG). City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page iii CONNECTIVITY A measure of how well facilities are linked together to form a convenient network that enables everyday trip purposes. In general, this means that the facilities follow the most direct path between origin and destination points. E-BIKE(S) Also known as pedal-assist or electric-assisted bicycles, e-bikes are defined in Washington state law as Class 1, 2, or 3, depending on how much assistance they provide. E-bikes are considered active transportation in this plan. FACILITY Refers to transportation-related structures such as bike lanes, sidewalks, trails, roads, and/or operational tools such as traffic signals, crosswalk markings, accessible pedestrian signals, bike boxes, street lighting, and the like. IMPROVED TRAIL A trail that with improvements and maintenance schedule to accommodate most ages and abilities, although not ADA compliant. These trails are improved by width, reduced trip hazards and vegetation management. These trails may serve as part of the transportation network. LEVEL OF TRAFFIC STRESS (LTS) A quantitative evaluation of road segments and crossings based on posted speed, the number of vehicle travel lanes, traffic volume, and if there is a bike lane (for bicyclist LTS). LTS is calculated on a scale of 1 (lowest level, generally suitable for people of all ages and abilities to use) to 4 (highest level, will be used only out of necessity). MICROMOBILITY Small wheeled devices that may have an electric motor. Includes skateboards, foot scooters, hoverboards, and patented devices such as Solowheels and Segways. Micromobility use is not yet tracked separately, and typical data counters do not distinguish between device types. Research on the use of these devices is so new that it is not included in the discussion of benefits and other issues in this plan; their use for transportation primarily emerged in 2018-2019. NETWORK A system of links (roadway segments), nodes (intersections or crossings), and modal connection points that describe a transportation system. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page iv PEDESTRIAN As defined under Washington state law, “Any person afoot or using a wheelchair (manual or motorized) or means of conveyance (other than a bicycle) propelled by human power, such as skates or a skateboard”. ROLLING One of three general forms of active transportation (walk, bike or roll), and includes use of wheeled devices including, non-motorized and motorized versions of scooters, skateboards, one-wheels, and wheelchairs. SHARED STREET Designated non-arterial streets where motorized vehicles share space and yield to pedestrians and bikes. Shared streets are low- speed and low-volume, with an allowed speed limit of 10 mph. Shared Streets may have traffic calming measures as needed. TRAILS AND SHARED-USE PATHS A public way constructed primarily for and open to people walking, bicycling, or rolling (and in some locations, riding horses); does not include sidewalks. For certain purposes under Washington state law, a trail/path can also include a widened highway shoulder where that has been made part of a trails plan. TRIPS Means a single event where a person goes from an origin to a destination. A trip may or may not include intermediate stops. Trips can be taken using any transportation mode, including walking, cycling, public transportation, or private vehicle use, among others. UNIMPROVED TRAIL A footpath resembling a hiking trail. Surfaces may be uneven, narrowed by vegetation and seasonal. These are generally considered recreational or provide connections to transportation networks. WALKING Includes walking, running, and people with disabilities using assistive mobility devices. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page v Acknowledgements Stakeholder Committee Nicole Gauthier (Jefferson Transit Authority) Becci Kimball (Parks, Recreation, Trees and Trails Advisory Board, Transportation Lab, TAG (Transit Advisory Group)) Matt Klontz (Port of Port Townsend, Port Townsend School Board) Matt Miner (Parks, Recreation, Trees and Trails Advisory Board) Pat Teal (DASH (Disability Awareness Starts Here)) Nick Singer (ReCyclery, Salish Coast Bike Bus) Scott Walker (Transportation Lab) City Council Mayor David Faber Deputy Mayor Amy Howard Councilmember Neil Nelson Councilmember Ben Thomas Councilmember Libby Urner Wennstrom Councilmember Monica MickHager Councilmember Owen Rowe City Staff Steve King, Public Works Director Jeff Kostechka, Assistant City Engineer Winn McHenry, GIS Coordinator Emma Bolin, Planning Director Adrian Smith, Long Range Planner Consultant SCJ Alliance Thank you to those that worked on the original 1998 Non-Motorized plan, 2011 Update and the 2025 Active Transportation Plan. Many thanks to all the time the stakeholders, advisory boards, and the public put forth for helping shape this plan. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 6 01 Introduction In Washington State, cities are required under the Growth Management Act (GMA) to plan for transportation systems that serve all users, including those who walk, bike, or roll. Port Townsend has adopted local policies through its Comprehensive Plan and Transportation Improvement Plan that call for safer, more accessible streets, while also coordinating with Jefferson County, WSDOT, and regional trail initiatives such as the Olympic Discovery Trail to enhance connectivity beyond city limits. Since the adoption of the original forward thinking 1998 Non-motorized plan, the City has undertaken several targeted efforts to improve active transportation in the form of policy and constructed projects. These initiatives form a foundation for a more coordinated approach to active transportation planning. An Active Transportation Plan provides the framework for connecting these state, regional, and local goals with the specific needs of Port Townsend. It establishes the foundation for identifying gaps, prioritizing projects, and guiding investments that improve safety and mobility for people of all ages and abilities. The Port Townsend Active Transportation Plan provides a framework for building a safer, more connected, and more equitable network for walking, biking, and rolling. It establishes the purpose and strategies of the plan, identifies clear goals for connectivity, safety, opportunity, partnership, and participation, and outlines a set of guiding principles rooted in the Seven E’s framework. Because active transportation touches many aspects of city life, the plan is closely coordinated with other initiatives such as the Comprehensive Plan, Sustainable Streets Plan, and ADA Transition Plan to ensure consistency and efficiency. Equally important, the plan is shaped by robust public outreach, with input gathered through community events, surveys, and open houses that informed priorities and project recommendations. Together, these elements provide a roadmap for creating a transportation system that serves all residents, supports sustainability, and prepares Port Townsend for the future. Stakeholder Committee In addition to public open houses, this plan formed a committee of stakeholders to bring diverse perspectives to the table. Many thanks to all the time the stakeholders, advisory boards, and the public put forth for helping shape this plan. See the list of stakeholders in the Acknowledgment Section. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 7 Thank you to Past Volunteers Our community is fortunate to have the current trail system thanks to the many volunteers. who attended the meetings, open houses and planned the original Non-Motorized Plan. Since plan adoption, volunteers also rolled up their sleeves to physical build many of the trails we have today. They city partnered with volunteers to supply staff time, materials and equipment on some of these trails. Exhibit 1: Photos of Past Volunteer Trail Work Parties City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 8 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 9 What is Active Transportation? And Why is It Important to Plan for It? Put simply, Active Transportation is getting around by human-powered means by way of walking, biking, and rolling, including e-bikes and other electric mobility devices. Even those that drive participate in Active Transportation once parked and walking/rolling to their destination. Planning a network of routes to accommodate active transportation is not simply a compliance measure. Port Townsend is planning intentionally, in order to continue establishing a community rich in connection, activity, and engagement. These attributes are integral for economic development and quality of life. To plan for these ideals, an active transportation system must include not only the minimum standard for biking, walking, and rolling, but must also effectively provide safety, accessibility, and convenience. If these components are not integrated into the long-term implementation, walking or biking will struggle to compete, and auto-dependence will continue. Purpose and Content of the Plan This Active Transportation Plan is meant to serve the entire Port Townsend community. It builds on the City’s long history of non-motorized transportation planning and establishes a framework for the next generation of improvements. The plan provides a long-term implementation strategy that supports both the City’s present needs and its future growth. To achieve this, the plan focuses on four primary strategies: Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes: Ensuring that key pedestrian routes meet ADA standards so all residents and visitors, regardless of ability, can travel safely and comfortably. Strategy 2 – Connected Routes: Building a network of continuous, safe, and inviting routes for walking, biking, and rolling that link neighborhoods, schools, parks, and major destinations. Strategy 3 – Recreational Trails: For non-designated connected or ADA priority routes, unimproved trails remain an important part of Port Townsend’s identity. These trails are considered recreational as a result of a lower level of standard of care and maintenance. Strategy 4 – Culture: Building a culture that respects active transportation include behavior of motorists, adjoining property owners maintaining their sidewalks and frontage, parking management, courtesy between walkers, bikers, rollers, and drivers is critical for effective and safer streets. This Active Transportation Plan is meant to serve the entire Port Townsend community. It builds upon the City's rich history of non-motorized transportation planning, and aims to provide a long-term implementation process which accommodates the city's present and future growth. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 10 Goals The goals of this plan align with the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Active Transportation Plan (2020 and Beyond, 2021), adapted to reflect Port Townsend’s local priorities. Together, these goals guide the policies and investments recommended in this plan: Goal 1 – Connectivity Create a connected, comfortable, convenient, inviting, and effective walking and rolling network so people can reach their destinations. Goal 2 – Opportunity Eliminate disparities in access to safe, healthy, active transportation connections for people and communities most dependent on walking, bicycling, and transit. Goal 3 – Partnership Collaborate and coordinate with public, tribal, nonprofit, and private partners to complete and improve the network across boundaries. Goal 4 – Participation Increase the frequency and percentage of everyday trips made by walking, bicycling, and transit. Goal 5 – Safety Strive to create a safe walking and rolling environment consistent with Goal 1: Connectivity. Using these two main strategies and five goals, policies have been developed to direct staff action and funding toward the fulfillment of these goals. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 11 The 7 E's This plan also builds on the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) framework, which emphasizes a holistic approach to active transportation. Traditionally known as the Six E’s, Port Townsend has expanded the framework to include a seventh “E”: Enforcement. 1. Evaluation – Assessing current conditions and identifying areas for improvement. 2. Education – Teaching children and the community about safe walking and biking practices. 3. Encouragement – Promoting walking and biking through events and activities. 4. Engineering – Implementing infrastructure improvements such as sidewalks, bike lanes, and crosswalks. 5. Engagement – Involving the community and stakeholders in planning and decision-making. 6. Equity – Ensuring that improvements serve all communities, especially those that are underserved. 7. Enforcement – Working with law enforcement, schools, and the community to improve safety around schools and neighborhoods through speed management, crossing guards, and driver awareness. Coordinated Plans Under Development Active transportation intersects with many other elements of the Comprehensive Plan and city policies. To be successful, this plan must be coordinated with other current and ongoing initiatives, including: Port Townsend Sustainable Streets Plan – Developing a balanced street system that reduces impervious surfaces, stormwater runoff, and long-term maintenance costs while supporting mobility for all users. Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan – Expanding trail access and recreational connections. Traffic Calming Manual – Integrating tools for safer neighborhood streets. ADA Transition Plan – Ensuring compliance and accessibility in pedestrian facilities. Housing and Zoning Policies – Linking active transportation to land use decisions so that increased density supports walkability, reduces infrastructure costs, and expands mobility choices. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 12 Key Milestones 1988 – Grassroot Beginnings In 1988, local resident, and current stakeholder, Scott Walker spoke at City Council to encourage the development of a pathway system and forming a citizen committee to implement a plan – the early beginnings of the first Non-Motorized Transportation Plan. Exhibit 2: 1988 Council Minutes – Beginning of Non-Motorized Plan 1998 – Adoption of the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan Port Townsend’s commitment to active transportation began with the adoption of the city’s first Non-Motorized Transportation Plan. This groundbreaking plan laid out a vision for a connected trail, sidewalk, and bikeway system. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 13 Exhibit 3: 1998 Non-Motorized Transportation Plan Source: City of Port Townsend | Non-Motorized Transportation Plan. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 14 Exhibit 4: 1998/2011 Active Transportation Plan Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 15 1998–2009 – Early Implementation In the years following adoption, the City made major strides in implementing the plan, including: Development of the city’s core trail system, done by volunteers with city support Improvements to Lower Sims Way and Upper Sims Way Upgrades to F Street, San Juan, and a number of other small sidewalk projects and Sheridan Street 2011 – Plan Update Recognizing changes in community needs and best practices, the City updated the Non- Motorized Transportation Plan to refine priorities and expand the active transportation network. 2011–2024 – Continued Progress and Partnerships Over the last decade, Port Townsend has strengthened its active transportation framework through both local and state initiatives: Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan (2020) – Expanded the role of trails and active recreation in community life. WSDOT Statewide Active Transportation Plan (2021) – Integrated Port Townsend’s efforts with state-level policies and goals. Port Townsend ADA Transition Plan (2023) – Advanced accessibility by identifying and prioritizing upgrades to pedestrian facilities. Street improvements – Improvements such as Water Street, Jefferson Street, Discovery Road, and many others made great improvements of adding sidewalks, bike facilities, and safety enhancements along a key corridors. Edge-Lane Roads – Piloted innovative street designs that provide flexible space for both vehicles and bicyclists. 2025 – A New Chapter: Active Transportation Plan Building on nearly 30 years of progress, Port Townsend is now updating the 2011 Non- motorized plan into an Active Transportation Plan. This plan consolidates past efforts, sets new goals, and prioritizes future investments to create a safer, more connected, and focused investments on equitable transportation system for all ages and abilities. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 16 Planning Process The development of the Port Townsend Active Transportation Plan has been guided by a collaborative, community-driven process. The City worked closely with residents, neighborhood groups, and regional partners to identify needs, priorities, and opportunities for improving walking, biking, and rolling throughout the community. Engagement efforts included public workshops, online surveys, and targeted outreach to historically underserved populations to ensure a wide range of voices shaped the plan. This feedback helped the City understand existing barriers to safe and comfortable travel, as well as the community’s vision for a more connected and equitable transportation system. In addition to community engagement, the planning process built upon Port Townsend’s strong foundation of past planning work, including the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan, the ADA Transition Plan, and the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan. Data analysis, field assessments, and coordination with state and regional initiatives such as the WSDOT Active Transportation Plan provided additional context. Together, these efforts informed the plan’s goals, policies, and project recommendations, ensuring that they reflect both community priorities and best practices in active transportation planning. Why Update the Plan? The Active Transportation Plan is being updated alongside the 2025 Comprehensive Plan to ensure that Port Townsend’s vision for walking, biking, and rolling is aligned with the community’s broader growth and development goals. Drivers of the Update Completed Projects – Many priority sidewalks, trails, and ADA ramps from the 2011 plan are already built. Feasibility Challenges – Earlier assumptions about density and sidewalk placement proved impractical and underfunded. Evolving Industry Trends – Cities are embracing lower-cost, flexible street designs and network approaches rather than single project types. Technology – E-bikes and other micro-mobility options have expanded the range of who can use active transportation. Community Needs – Greater emphasis on safety, comfort, accessibility, and recreational opportunities for all ages and abilities. Sustainability – Integration with the Comprehensive Plan’s PT Sustainable Streets Plan to reduce street miles, stormwater runoff, and maintenance costs while increasing mobility, green space, and stormwater-friendly design. Comprehensive Plan Alignment – Ensuring that land use, housing density, and transportation infrastructure are coordinated to support affordability and livability. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 17 People, Planet, and Prosperity The Active Transportation Plan is grounded in the principle of People, Planet, and Prosperity (PPP), recognizing that true sustainability must balance social, environmental, and economic outcomes. People reflects the importance of equity, health, and safety, ensuring that walking, biking, and rolling options are accessible for all ages and abilities. Planet emphasizes environmental stewardship by reducing vehicle trips, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, managing stormwater, and integrating trees and green infrastructure into street design. Prosperity acknowledges that active transportation supports the local economy by lowering household transportation costs, attracting visitors, and fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods. By aligning improvements with the PPP framework, Port Townsend can advance mobility solutions that strengthen the community today while building resilience for the future. Exhibit 5: People, Planet, and Prosperity City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 18 02 Public Engagement Community engagement has been central to developing the Active Transportation Plan. The phased outreach process, starting with broad conversations and moving toward detailed input as the plan developed. Public engagement events were highly attended with much interest in this topic throughout the 2025 Periodic Update of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. The timing of this plan update was coordinated with the Comprehensive Plan update as well as the PROS plan update to provide the opportunity for the public to provide input on balancing many city priorities such as housing and open space. Given transportation is the backbone of the City and active transportation is highly regarded as a priority, the public engagement meetings provided meaningful and very helpful feedback in the development of this plan. City staff and the stakeholder committee was able to review public comments to apply principles priorities such as connectivity as a focus of this transition from the Non-Motorized Plan to the more commonly used term, Active Transportation Plan. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 19 Outreach Timeline 1. April 2024 – Plan kickoff at the Transportation Lab’s “Moving in the Right Direction” Conference 2. Spring/Summer 2024 – Farmers Market outreach events 3. June–September 2024 – Citywide online Active Transportation Survey (509 responses received) 4. July 2024 – Comprehensive Plan Studio event 5. January 2025 – Active Transportation Open House 6. March 2025 – Comprehensive Plan Open House 7. August 2025 – Farmers Market follow-up engagement 8. September 2025 – Planning for Our Future Open House At each stage, the focus of outreach narrowed: early events provided high-level information to spark broad conversations, while later events presented draft strategies and maps to gather more specific feedback. Survey Highlights (June–September 2024) The online survey was widely shared through posters, QR codes, social media, and in-person outreach at the Farmers Market. Below are some highlights of the survey results. A more detailed summary of outreach activities and results is provided in the Appendix A (Page). Strong desire for more connected routes across the city. People want city wide mobility, per future/desired map below. Preference for detached paths or calm neighborhood streets over facilities located directly on high-traffic, high stress roadways. Support for lower-cost, widespread improvements rather than fewer high-cost projects. Transit was not the focus of this plan update and yet, the community wide support for transit and recognition of its role in Active Transportation is understood. Bike Parking is desired in downtown, uptown, along Sims and near Fort Worden Golf carts represent alternative transportation methods that bridge the gap between active transportation and motorized transportation. This concept emerged as a potential accessibility option: 70% of respondents with disabilities and 48% of all respondents expressed interest. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 20 Exhibit 6:With limited funds, which type of transportation infrastructure do you prefer? Exhibit 7: Where do you feel comfortable biking or rolling? Check all that apply. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 21 Exhibit 8: Future/Desired Active Transportation Exhibit 9: Desired Bike Parking City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 22 In-Person Highlights (July 2024–March 2025) July 2024 – Comprehensive Plan Studio Event Location: Cotton Building Downtown Presented Information: o Introduction to the plan o Flyers and tablets to take the online survey Received Feedback Highlights (see all feedback in Appendix XX): o This was a Comprehensive Plan event with limited Active Transportation information. January 2025 – Active Transportation Open House Location: County Senior / Community Center in Uptown Presented Information: o Based on the previous feedback, the provided maps and content to solicit feedback on: ADA sidewalk and ramp priority medium and low-cost active transportation improvements examples of Seattle Neighborhood Greenway installations Received Feedback Highlights (see all feedback in Appendix A): o Traffic Calming– Requests for speed control. o Speed Enforcement – Multiple requests for better speed control, including speed enforcement cameras. o Better Lighting – Especially along San Juan and other high-stress areas. o Uncontrolled Neighborhood Intersections – Concerns about intersections lacking clear traffic control. o Improved Connectivity for Walkers & Cyclists – Calls to close redundant streets and create safer connections (e.g., downtown to fort). o ELRs (Enhanced Local Roads) – Mixed support o Trail & Pathway Maintenance Issues – Complaints about overgrown vegetation. o San Juan and 49th Curve – Safety concerns and lack of shoulder and sidewalk. Many people cut through the fairgrounds o ADA & Stroller Access Challenges – Calls for better sidewalks and pathway accessibility. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 23 Exhibit 10: January 2025 Open House Attendees March 2025 – Comprehensive Plan Open House Location: Salish Coast Elementary School Presented Information: o Based on the previous feedback, the provided maps and content to solicit feedback on: The challenge: we have lacking or failing infrastructure with limited budgets City’s Plan: 1. Focus on ADA priority routes. Invest in sidewalk where the need is highest. 2. Establish “Connected Routes.” When not on and ADA Priority route, use low and medium cost improvements. Lower cost solutions may be installed in shorter timelines than large street projects. Examples of medium and low-cost active transportation improvements Examples of Seattle Neighborhood Greenway installations ADA Priority Map – dot poll for sidewalk and ramp priority Existing Conditions Map – dot poll on difficult connections or concerns City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 24 Exhibit 11: March 2025 Open House Attendees City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 25 Received Feedback Highlights (see all feedback in Appendix A): o Feedback was supportive of the city’s general approach to making strategic investments for sidewalk and looking for lower cost solutions in other locations. o The dot poll showed making the greatest investments in the Castle Hill area, including Sheridan which has a large sidewalk gap from 10th to 15th. o Challenging Locations: Hastings – walking and biking is stressful Curve at 49th and San Juan – tight corner, no city right-of-way to improve Admiralty and curve with Spruce near cemetery Discovery Road – city limits to Rainier Connecting to Larry Scott Trail in the Port Traffic Calming- city wide o Opportunities: People use 47th through the fairgrounds to avoid 49th and San Juan The vision board noted: Neighborhood greenways and Connected Routes August 2025 – Farmers Market / Uptown Fair Location: Farmers Market Presented Information: o Connected Routes map o Connected Route sections and examples Priority trails Paved Paths Neighborhood Greenways on existing local streets o Sustainable Streets Plan Map and information - the long term plan to: Minimize street miles for the city to maintain Maximize trails and tree retention Reduce stormwater runoff September 2025 – Comprehensive Plan Open House Location: County Senior / Community Center in Uptown Presented Information: o Refined ADA Priority Routes Map o Refined Connected Routes Map o A map to gather feedback on which trails should become “priority trails” for improvements and maintenance priority o Feedback forms o Other groups presented on: Sustainable Streets Plan Parks, Recreation, Open Space (PROS) Plan City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 26 Exhibit 12: September 2025 Open House Poster Exhibit 13: September 2025 Open House Attendees City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 27 03 Brief History, Inventory, and Current Challenges Active Transportation Planning History Port Townsend’s pre-platted condition coupled with its boom and bust history created a broken and aging infrastructure system. Port Townsend has been a regional leader in advancing active transportation for nearly three decades. The city’s first Non-Motorized Transportation Plan was adopted in 1998, setting the foundation for a community-wide system of trails, sidewalks, and bikeways. Since then, the City has steadily built upon that work through updated plans, street improvements, and partnerships with state and regional initiatives. This Active Transportation Plan builds on that long history and carries it forward into the next generation of improvements. Existing Conditions and Challenges Existing Conditions The following map shows existing sidewalk and bike lanes. Many arterials are missing sidewalk and or bike lanes. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 28 Why Port Townsend’s Streets and Sidewalks Look the Way They Do? Port Townsend’s streets, sidewalks, and bicycle facilities reflect the city’s long history, much of which predates modern street design standards. As a result, today’s infrastructure is a patchwork of older systems, intermittent improvements, and gaps that create challenges for active transportation. Historic Development Patterns Many of the city’s oldest neighborhoods were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, before paved streets, concrete sidewalks, or bicycle facilities were standard practice. Streets were often dirt, and sidewalks were made of wood. Over time, these wooden sidewalks deteriorated and disappeared, while limited city budgets upgraded dirt streets with very thin layers of pavement, called chip seal. Today, poor drainage, age, and heavier vehicles are causing many of these chip seal streets to fail. Exhibit 14: An Example of Aging Streets within Port Townsend Source: City of Port Townsend City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 29 Sidewalk History In Uptown, most of the existing sidewalks were built during the Great Depression through the federal Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1937–1938. Many of these sidewalks are still in use today, stamped with the WPA mark, but they are now aging and in need of repair. Exhibit 15: An Example of a WPA Sidewalk in Uptown (1937 – 1938) Source: City of Port Townsend City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 30 Why Newer Areas Often Lack Sidewalks Some neighborhoods constructed after World War II also lack sidewalks, not because of age, but because they were built under standards in place at the time. These subdivisions were developed without requirements for pedestrian or bicycle facilities, leaving lasting gaps in connectivity. The most recent developments in the City have required the installation of sidewalk which have resulted in greater walkability in those neighborhoods. Pre-Platted vs. Post 1937 Platted Development Another defining factor in Port Townsend’s infrastructure is the distinction between pre-platted and un-platted development. Pre-Platted Development Port Townsend is unusual because most of the city was “pre-platted” in the late 1800s, in anticipation of becoming a booming seaport city. The expectation was that streets and utilities would be built all at once as homes were built. However, when the city’s growth stalled—first with the shift from sailing ships to steam, and later when the railroad never arrived— development slowed dramatically. Land was sold off lot by lot, often with multiple owners on a single block. Today, this “fractured ownership” means that infill development is difficult to coordinate. Unlike more recently platted development, where a single developer installs all the infrastructure across a large area, in pre- platted areas infrastructure was not installed to service the lots and thus each property owner is responsible for extending streets, sidewalks, and utilities at the time of construction. The vast majority of Port Townsend was pre-platted as shown below. Only very few larger open tracts of land were not included in the original late 1800 plats. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 31 Exhibit 16: Pre-Platted Port Townsend, Circa 1900, with over 14,000 lots The result is a city with discontinuous and unorganized infrastructure: Sidewalks that start and stop mid-block Throughout much of Port Townsend history, sidewalks were not required to be installed leaving large areas without pedestrian infrastructure Streets that transition from paved to chip seal to gravel Gaps in safe routes to schools for walking and biking Generally lack of connectivity for most modes of transportation except the automobile Post 1937 Platted Development City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 32 The Washington State legislature adopted the Platting Act in 1937 which changed the platting process drastically. Over the years a number of changes and updates have been made which are now codified in Title 58 RCW. The modern subdivision requirements combine with Growth Management Act requirements ensure that infrastructure is provided for every newly created lot including sidewalks and transportation facilities meeting the City’s engineering design standards. Several recent development illustrate implementation of these requirements. A good example in Port Townsend is the Madrona Ridge neighborhood, where the private developer constructed complete streets, utilities, and walking/biking paths to modern standards. These developments provide accessible streets for all with continuous sidewalk fronting the majority of homes. Exhibit 17: A Sample Streetscape in the Madrona Ridge Neighborhood Source: Madrona Ridge by Lennar Inventory Based on the history of development of Port Townsend and having a clear understanding of current conditions is essential for shaping an active transportation system that meets community needs. By documenting the existing network, identifying challenges, and recognizing opportunities, Port Townsend can prioritize improvements that address gaps, enhance safety, and build on strengths. This approach ensures that investments are data-driven, responsive to community input, and aligned with long-term goals for connectivity and livability. Port Townsend’s active transportation system includes sidewalks, trails, bike lanes, shared roadways, and connections to transit stops. Key assets include the Larry Scott Trail, which links the city to the Olympic Discovery Trail, sidewalks in the historic downtown, and pedestrian- friendly waterfront areas. However, the network varies in quality and consistency, some neighborhoods lack sidewalks, bike facilities are limited, and accessibility features are not always present. An accurate inventory of existing facilities provides the foundation for identifying gaps and prioritizing improvements. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 33 Exhibit 18: Existing Active Transportation Network City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 34 Existing Challenges Despite an extensive trail network with over 30 miles of trails and numerous bike lanes, , the public clearly indicated that connectivity is a major barrier and challenge. Building a complete and connected active transportation system requires extensive infrastructure investments. Gaps in sidewalk and bike lane coverage create barriers for people walking and biking, particularly near schools, commercial centers, and major roadways. Topography and constrained right-of-way in some areas limit options for facility expansion and many recreational trails are not accessible to all. Safety concerns, including high vehicle speeds and limited crossing treatments, further discourage walking and biking. Funding limitations and competition with other infrastructure needs also present barriers to implementing improvements at the pace desired by the community. These challenges combined with the historic platted city provide the opportunity for connectivity and provide the fundamental basis for this plan. Existing Opportunities Port Townsend’s number one asset is the fact that active transportation became a priority with the adoption of the 1998 Non-motorized plan. Combining the community desire to improve active transportation with the gridded historic and undeveloped plat from the 1890s provides the perfect opportunity to address the lack of connectivity with focused attention and investments on priority routes. Public engagement continues to shows strong community interest in more walking and biking options, and adopted policies such as Complete Streets and the Climate Action Plan provide clear direction for increasing transportation through active means compared to the automobile. These combined factors increase the likelihood of continued success in active transportation supported grant programs as opposed to building larger and more expensive streets. Key Challenges Moving Forward The legacy of Port Townsend’s early platting and development history continues to shape the city’s infrastructure challenges today: Aging Infrastructure – Much of the city’s existing pavement and sidewalks are over 80 years old and showing signs of deterioration. Disconnected Routes – Active transportation networks are fragmented, with sidewalks and bike routes beginning and ending abruptly. Despite the large trail system, public comments illustrate a perception of a disconnected community. Limited Resources – Decades of deferred maintenance, paired with a modest tax base, have left the city struggling to keep up with repairs and improvements. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 35 High Cost of Infill – In pre-platted areas, extending streets, utilities, sidewalks, and bike lanes falls on individual property owners, making coordinated improvements difficult and expensive. Equity in Access – Neighborhoods with un-platted developments (like Madrona Ridge) enjoy higher-quality streets and walking/biking paths, while older areas often lack even basic pedestrian infrastructure. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 36 04 Feasible and Practical Approach Given the extensive gaps in the existing walking and biking networks, Port Townsend must take a practical and iterative approach. Solutions must be feasible to build, fund and fit our small town and sometimes rural context. While grants often fund larger projects on major streets, or arterials, many gaps will remain. Grants often come with restrictions on eligible projects and scopes of work. To address these challenges, Port Townsend must adopt a diverse and practical approach, using a range of strategies and project types to close critical gaps and create a more connected active transportation system. The ”right” solution will vary upon site context, available funds and whether a interim or long- term fix is needed. See the Four Important Strategies Moving forward, the City will take a four-pronged approach to improving active transportation. The first three represent the built environment, and the fourth is Culture which binds all the strategies together. Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes Strategy 2 – Connected Routes. Strategy 3 – Recreational Trail System Strategy 4 - Culture Together, these strategies balance the need for fully accessible infrastructure with practical, lower-cost improvements that expand the network quickly and equitably. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 37 Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes The first strategy focuses on providing fully accessible sidewalks along key streets. Working with Disability Awareness Starts Here (DASH), and feedback from open houses, the City identified where sidewalks are most needed to create connections to locations, such as grocery, parks, schools and other key community locations. Many of these connections are primarily along arterial with higher traffic volumes and speeds. These streets are the least safe for walking in the roadway and therefore warrant dedicated ADA-compliant sidewalks. In addition, a number of connecting non-arterial streets were identified to access parks and other important public facilities. Because full ADA sidewalks are complex and costly to design and construct, this plan prioritizes a limited number of strategic corridors rather than attempting to retrofit every street. Prioritization ensures that the most critical connections are built first, providing safe routes for the most vulnerable users. This strategy also supports the City’s Complete Streets Policy, aligns with grant funding requirements, and supplements the draft ADA Transition Plan. The ADA transition identifies the goal of adopting this Active Transportation Plan to prioritize improvements. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 38 Exhibit 22: ADA Compliant Improvements on Discovery Road Exhibit 22: ADA Compliant Improvements on Lawrence Street Strategy 2 - Connected Routes The name “Connected Routes” came directly from public outreach, reflecting the community’s desire for better, continuous pathways through town. These routes will create safer and more comfortable connections between neighborhoods, schools, parks, business districts, and multi- use trails. The city determined the Connected Routes based on the following criteria: Connection to points of interest (schools, jobs, parks, grocery, transit, commercial) Ideally one block away from an arterial (a nearby and lower stress alternative) City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 39 Grade (flattest routes where possible) Connect to existing system (routes can connect to prior walking/biking investments) Coordinate with other networks (cicmehan routes, Creative District, and more) Connected Routes are “Improved Routes.” These are not ADA compliant, see the disclaimer below, and have a goal of connecting the community with low and medium cost solutions allowing faster timelines. This can be done by utilizing existing infrastructure and building low- cost connections where needed. Unlike ADA routes, these corridors can be implemented at lower cost, in stages, and with more flexibility. Improvements may include: 1. “Improved Trails” (roots removed, graded and surfaced with compacted gravel) 2. Paved multi-use paths 3. Shared Streets (Neighborhood Greenways or Bicycle Boulevards) with traffic calming Exhibit 22: ADA Priority Routes VS Connected Routes ADA (Americans with Disability Act) Routes are long-lasting engineered projects (sidewalks, curb ramps and repaving the street crossing) to meet the Federal rules for slopes, surfacing and detection. These projects typically require longer timelines and larger budgets or grants to complete. Connected Routes are planned to provide improved walking and biking connections and are not intended to function as American’s with Disability Act (ADA) accessible routes. Realistically, making these routes 100% ADA compliant ahead of “Connected Route” designation would make this program cost prohibitive. Therefore, Port Townsend is taking an iterative approach and working with the local advocacy group, Disability Awareness Starts Here (DASH), to identify and construct both ADA Priority Routes and Connected Routes in our community. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 40 Exhibit 22: Connected Routes – “Improved Trail” on Kah Tai Exhibit 22: Connected Routes – Multi-Use Path (Valley Trail) City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 41 Exhibit 22: Connected Routes – Shared Street / Neighborhood Greenway Strategy 3 – Recreational Trail System This strategy maintains a primitive trail system in many of the Port Townsend rights-of-way. Recreational trails are considered “unimproved” and will remain narrower and more natural than “improved trails,” see the Engineering Design Standards for details. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 42 Exhibit 22: Connected Routes – “Unimproved Trail” in North Beach Strategy 4 – Culture This strategy maintains focuses on education to help community members and visitors take an active role in honoring active transportation. Out of the 7 E’s much of this effort is education and engineering related in order to encourage equitable access for all users. This is a huge social pivot from years of focus on the ease of travel for the automobile. Key topics to consider for changing culture include: 1. Traffic calming 2. Addressing conflicts between active transportation user groups such as biking and walking, or rolling 3. Addressing technology changes such as which electric devices are allowed on the sidewalks 4. Speed limits for motorized devices City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 43 5. Property owners maintaining their frontage along streets, sidewalk or trails (clearing vegetation, shoveling snow, and fixing sidewalk trip hazards) to support user experience and mobility. 6. Creating artwork on the streets for place making 7. Treating people with courtesy 8. Clarifying the difference between transportation routes and recreational routes in the field. Exhibit 19: Unmaintained Frontage and Parking City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 44 Technology and Trends Enforcement using Speed Safety Cameras and Equity Attendees at Open houses frequently commented on traffic calming and the desire for the police to enforce speed violations. When people don’t feel safe to walk or bike, they choose to drive. Those that can’t drive, are disproportionately affected. Advantages of these cameras include: 1. Improves safety: Proven to reduce speeding and crash severity, especially near schools, parks, and hospitals. 2. Behavior change: Most drivers who receive a ticket don’t reoffend (e.g., 90% in Seattle, 89% in Kirkland). 3. Protects vulnerable users: Reduces risk for pedestrians, cyclists, and children in high- traffic areas. 4. Consistent enforcement: Provides objective, 24/7 speed monitoring not limited by police staffing. 5. Frees up police resources: Allows officers to focus on other priorities. 6. Equity: a. Lower income neighborhoods are disproportionately impacted by traffic safety and experience the most injury. b. Revenue from safety cameras must prioritize funding safety improvements in low-income and high-crash areas. Locations of cameras should be based history of speeds, crash data and other factors, see Appendix C. However, the allowed locations, specifically the “School Walk Zones” within one- mile of schools, would allow camera installations on most any arterial in Port Townsend. See the Safe Routes to School Section with a map showing Port Townsend schools with one-mile radii covering most of city limits. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 45 Exhibit 20: Speed Safety Cameras Allowed Locations in Washington State Many cities in Washington State implemented a Speed Safety Camera program including: Bellevue Seattle Lake Forest Park Kirkland Tacoma Federal Way Kenmore Renton Lynnwood Des Moines Longview Everett Auburn Edgewood Bothell City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 46 Expected Revenue to Fund Traffic Safety Projects City staff researched generated revenue per camera from locations in Washington State. Revenue ranged but increased with the traffic volumes and violation rates. Port Townsend would fall in the Low population and violation rate category. These are estimates and not projected revenue. A portion of the revenue generated by the cameras would pay for the equipment and management of the program. Remaining funds stay within the community to construct traffic safety projects. See the Implementation section for project lists. Exhibit 21: Expected Revenue per Camera, based on other Cities in Washington State City Population and Violation Rate Expected Revenue Per Camera Low $200,000 Medium $500,000 to $1,000,000 High $2,000,000 Equity In Washington State, traffic safety projects funded by camera revenues must prioritize projects in neighborhoods with the highest equity needs. Below is a map of Equity Needs from the WSDOT Sandy Williams Grant Program showing the highest need in the Castle Hill area along SR-20 / Sims Way. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 47 Exhibit 22: WSDOT Equity Needs Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 48 E-Mobility and Micromobility Micromobility refers to the use of small, lightweight vehicles operating at speeds typically below 25 mph, such as e-bikes, e-scooters, electric skateboards, and other compact electric devices. These modes can play a significant role in Port Townsend’s transportation future when paired with a robust active transportation network. They extend the practical range of walking and biking, reduce the physical burden of hilly terrain, provide easy connections to transit, and offer a lower environmental footprint compared to traditional motor vehicles. To encourage safe and equitable adoption, the City should establish clear rules for micromobility use across different facility types, roads, sidewalks, trails, and shared-use paths. Barriers to entry can be lowered by investing in supportive infrastructure, including designated parking zones, charging stations, and secure storage facilities. Lessons from other communities highlight potential challenges: improper parking and clutter, conflicts with pedestrians, damage and vandalism, and uneven service distribution. By proactively developing a policy framework and considering community input, Port Townsend can embrace the benefits of micromobility while minimizing conflicts. Low-Cost, High-Benefit Solutions The “right” solution does not need to be expensive. As construction costs continue to rise, many cities are turning to lower cost alternatives for walking, biking and vehicle safety. This approach is also called “tactical urbanism” or even “road diet” where low-cost materials modify an existing roadway to provide or improve safety and mobility for many forms of transportation. These solutions have the following benefits: Lower construction costs Budgets can be spread to more locations (connected routes) Often there is no, to little design needed Can be an interim solution before budgets allow more costly options Allows the community to provide feedback before greater investments are made Examples are shown below, some from Port Townsend while others are from other regional cities. Applications include: City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 49 Exhibit 23: Traffic Calming on Rose Street Exhibit 24: Edge Lane Road in North Beach City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 50 Exhibit 25: Seattle Bike Corral at Pikes Market (Photo credit – City of Port Townsend Staff) Exhibit 26: Seattle Separated Bike Lane with Flex Tubes (Photo credit – City of Seattle) City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 51 Exhibit 27: Seattle Protected “Better Bike Lane” and “Neighborhood Walkway” Programs (Photo credit – City of Seattle) (Photo credit – City of Seattle) City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 52 (Photo credit - Universal Precast Concrete, Inc.) (Photo credit - Bike Delaware) City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 53 (Photo credit – City of Seattle) (Photo credit – City of Seattle) City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 54 Golf Carts Under RCW 46.08.175, cities and counties in Washington State may establish designated “golf cart zones.” Golf carts represent another form of small-scale mobility that can serve residents, particularly older adults and people with limited mobility, by offering an affordable, low-speed option for short trips. From the 2024 Port Townsend Active Transportation Survey: Those that would use a golf cart if permitted o 50% of all respondents o 70% of those with disabilities Low Speed Electric Vehicles are sought in a rental program Exhibit 28: Low Speed Electric Vehicles Survey Question: Would you participate in a rental program for the following? City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 55 Several cities in Washington have adopted the use of golf carts on public streets with a local ordinance. Below is a list of some of those cities: Bainbridge Island Liberty Lake Vancouver Bainbridge Island Walla Walla Langley Designating golf cart zones in Port Townsend could expand mobility choices for residents, but successful implementation would require community engagement, careful route planning, and alignment with existing active transportation goals. Golf carts should be viewed as a complementary mobility option, particularly on low-speed streets, while ensuring they do not compromise the safety of people walking, biking, or using mobility devices. Traffic Calming Traffic Calming refers to a set of design strategies and physical measures implemented on roadways to reduce vehicle speeds, improve safety for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Traffic calming strategies are used to enhance the overall quality of the street environment. These measures help create safer, more comfortable, and more accessible streets, encouraging active transportation modes like walking and biking in Port Townsend. Traffic speed in urban environments is one the largest predictors of safety relating to vehicle to non-motorized user crashes as illustrated below. US Department of Transportation, Image Credit: San Francisco MTA Vision Zero Action Plan Furthermore, the City’s Local Road Safety plan stresses reduction of traffic speeds on arterial streets to improve safety for all modes of transportation. This is particularly important on City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 56 streets where either vertical or horizontal separation does not exist between vehicle traffic and active users where speeds are high. See the Level of Traffic Stress charts to see how active transportation users stress increases with traffic speed and volume. The Transportation Benefit District will allocate 10-20% of the annual total to fund sidewalks and traffic calming. This plan suggests prioritizing traffic calming elements on Connected Routes first. Utilizing Transportation Benefit District funding of approximately $25,000 per year, the City plans to implement an annual program to work with neighborhoods to install low cost traffic calming strategies throughout the City. This investment strategy needs to be deployed with equity in mind such that all neighborhoods have opportunity to improve safety on their streets. Citywide traffic calming is estimated at $30,000 per year. Along with pothole repair, traffic calming is one of the most highly requested items for improving roadway safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. The city has a draft Traffic Calming Manual that sets the design and installation standards for said devices. A list of traffic calming options are available in the Appendices. In addition, the please refer to the City’s traffic calming guide book currently under development. This traffic calming guidebook will be utilized to implement the traffic calming program. ____ City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 57 Placemaking Active transportation networks can enliven a city, increase usage of public spaces, and enable new patterns of use. By creating safe, connected, and inviting routes, communities open the door to more opportunities for people to walk, bike, and gather in shared spaces. Streets, intersections, and corridors can become destinations themselves when designed with placemaking in mind, offering spaces that encourage lingering, conversation, and community interaction. Features such as public art, landscaping, benches, lighting, and wayfinding can transform everyday travel into a more engaging and enjoyable experience. Placemaking supports both local culture and economic vitality by enhancing access to historic districts, waterfront areas, parks, and neighborhood centers. High Performance Public Spaces Public spaces provide communities with a multitude of benefits. Through his research, David Barth developed the concept of “High Performance Public Spaces (HPPS)©” and identified 25 key benefits described below (Barth, 2014). City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 58 Exhibit 29: Benefits Provided by High Performance Public Spaces Economic Benefits Environmental Benefits Social Benefits The space creates and facilitates revenue- generating opportunities for the public and/or the private sectors. The space creates meaningful and desirable employment. The space indirectly creates or sustains good, living wage jobs. The space sustains or increases property values. The space catalyzes infill development and/or the re-use of obsolete or under-used buildings or spaces. The space attracts new residents. The space attracts new businesses. The space generates increased business and tax revenues. The space optimizes operations and maintenance costs (compared to other similar spaces). The space uses energy, water, and material resources efficiently. The space improves water quality of both surface and ground water. The space serves as a net carbon sink. The space enhances, preserves, promotes, or contributes to biological diversity. Hardscape materials were selected based on longevity of service, social/ cultural/ historical sustainability, regional availability, low carbon footprint and/or other related criteria. The space provides opportunities to enhance environmental awareness and knowledge. The space serves as an interconnected node within larger scale ecological corridors and natural habitat. The space improves the neighborhood. The space improves social and physical mobility through multimodal connectivity – auto, transit, bike, pedestrian. The space encourages the health and fitness of residents and visitors. The space provides relief from urban congestion and stressors such as social confrontation, noise pollution, and air pollution. The space provides places for formal and informal social gathering, art, performances, and community or civic events. The space provides opportunities for individual, group, passive and active recreation. The space facilitates shared experiences among different groups of people. The space attracts diverse populations. The space promotes creative and constructive social interaction. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 59 Placemaking Principles Various aspects within parks, trails, and open spaces work together to create vibrant spaces for communities. These include benches, art, large and small gathering spaces, pathways, lighting, and more. Project for Public Spaces, a national leader in making great places, says the following: “Placemaking inspires people to collectively reimagine and reinvent public spaces as the heart of every community. Strengthening the connection between people and the places they share, placemaking refers to a collaborative process by which we can shape our public realm in order to maximize shared value. More than just promoting better urban design, placemaking facilitates creative patterns of use, paying particular attention to the physical, cultural, and social identities that define a place and support its ongoing evolution.” Several critical features contribute to the development of exceptional spaces, including accessibility and connectivity, social engagement, comfort, and functional versatility. Below is a brief summary of concepts, metrics, and considerations involved in placemaking. What Makes A Successful Place? Uses & Activities Core Concepts: Fun, active, vital, special, real, useful, indigenous, celebratory, sustainable Measurable Data: local business ownership, land use patterns, property values, rent levels, retail sales Considerations: o Are people using the space or is it empty? o Is it used by people of different ages? o Are people in groups? o How many different types of activities are occurring - people walking, eating, playing baseball, chess, relaxing, reading? o Which parts of the space are used and which are not? o Are there choices of things to do? o Is there a management presence, or can you identify anyone in charge of the space? City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 60 Comfort & Image Core Concepts: Safe, clean, green, walkable, charming, attractive, historic Measurable Data: Crime statistics, sanitation rating, building conditions, environmental data Considerations: o Does the place make a good first impression? o Are there more women than men? o Are there enough places to sit? Are seats conveniently located? Do people have a choice of places to sit, either in the sun or shade? o Are spaces clean and free of litter? Who is responsible for maintenance? What do they do? When? o Does the area feel safe? Is there a security presence? If so, what do these people do? When are they on duty? o Are people taking pictures? Are there many photo opportunities available? o Do vehicles dominate pedestrian use of the space, or prevent them from easily getting to the space? Access & Linkages (Visual & Physical) Core Concepts: Continuity, Proximity, connected, readable, walkable, convenient, accessible Measurable Data: Traffic data, mode splits, transit usage, pedestrian activity Considerations: o Can you see the space from a distance? Is its interior visible from the outside? o Can people easily walk to the place? For example, do they have to dart between moving cars to get to the place? o Do sidewalks lead to and from the adjacent areas? o Does the space function for people with special needs? o Do the roads and paths through the space take people where they actually want to go? o Can people use a variety of transportation options - bus, train, car, bicycle, etc. - to reach the place? City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 61 Sociability Core Concepts: Diverse, stewardship, cooperative, neighborly, pride, friendly, interactive, welcoming Measurable Data: number of women children & elderly, social networks, volunteerism, evening use, street life Considerations: o Is this a place where you would choose to meet your friends? Are others meeting friends here or running into them? o Are people in groups? Are they talking with one another? o Do people seem to know each other by face or by name? o Do people bring their friends and relatives to see the place or do they point to one of its features with pride? o Are people smiling? Do people make eye contact with each other? o Do people use the place regularly and by choice? o Do people tend to pick up litter when they see it? City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 62 05 Design Guidelines Active transportation brings a wide range of benefits to communities. For individuals, it provides affordable and reliable ways to get to school, work, shops, and services while also encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles. For the city as a whole, walking and biking reduce traffic congestion, parking demand, and vehicle emissions, helping improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas contributions. Active transportation also fosters stronger social connections by encouraging people to be out in their neighborhoods and interact with one another. When safe and comfortable routes are available, residents of all ages and abilities are more likely to choose walking or biking for daily trips. Best practices in active transportation planning emphasize safety, equity, and long-term sustainability. Leading cities integrate complete networks of sidewalks, bikeways, trails, and crossings so that active modes are not an afterthought but a central part of the transportation system. Successful programs combine infrastructure with supportive measures such as wayfinding, education, and community engagement. They also align active transportation planning with broader goals such as climate action, economic development, and public health. By following these best practices, Port Townsend can close gaps in its network, prioritize projects that deliver the highest impact, and build an active transportation system that is safe, practical, and enjoyable for everyone. Referenced Guides and Standards As introduced earlier in this plan, there will be three categories of infrastructure. Each category will have fewer design standards as listed in the below order. ADA routes have the most strict guidelines, with the least being recreational trails. The fourth, Culture, is not physical. Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes Strategy 2 – Connected Routes Strategy 3 – Recreational Trail System Strategy 4 - Culture These manuals should be consulted to prepare engineered plans for implementation. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 63 1. Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) 2. WSDOT Active Transportation Programs Design Guide February 2024 3. WSDOT Design Manual M 22-01.23, Division 15 for Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) 4. AASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities (5th Edition) 5. FHWA Small Town and Rural Multimodal Networks Exhibit 30: Design Guides City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 64 WSDOT & Statewide Guidance Active transportation planning in Port Townsend is guided in part by state-level policies and standards established by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). These guidelines provide technical requirements for bicycle and pedestrian facilities, safety considerations, and multimodal corridor design, ensuring consistency with statewide transportation objectives. By aligning local projects with WSDOT and other statewide guidance, such as the Washington State Active Transportation Plan and relevant safety programs, Port Townsend can leverage funding opportunities, adopt best practices, and ensure that local improvements meet recognized standards for accessibility, safety, and connectivity. In addition, Washington State has set an aspirational goal of achieving a 30% mode shift from single occupant vehicles to active transportation. The active transportation planning and implementation efforts of the State and local agencies are key to making progress on this goal. Washington State Active Transportation Plan: 2020 and Beyond (2021) WSDOT’s Active Transportation Plan (ATP) was published in 2021 and is Washington State’s strategic vision for improving conditions for people who walk, bike, and roll. This plan lays out a framework for integrating active transportation into the state’s transportation system. The statewide plan is built upon 5 key goals, and Port Townsend’s Active Transportation plan mirrors these same goals. The plan’s five goals are below, and the corresponding links redirect to Port Townsend’s analogous goals lower in the document: Connectivity: Create and connect comfortable and efficient walking and rolling networks so people can reach their destinations and other forms of transportation and have everyday access to physical activity. Safety: Eliminate deaths and serious injuries of people walking and rolling. Opportunity: Eliminate disparities in access to safe, healthy, active transportation connections for people and communities most dependent on walking, bicycling, and transit. Participation: Increase the percentage of everyday trips made by walking or bicycling. Partnership: Collaborate and coordinate with public, tribal, nonprofit, and private partners to complete and improve the network across boundaries. The nearly-400-page document includes the first statewide inventory of pedestrian and bicyclist crash data on state routes. It points out over 3,000 miles of state highways with inadequate or no shoulder, many of which are critical links in rural communities. It also highlights safety trends. It states that over 20% of statewide traffic deaths involve people walking or biking, despite representing a smaller share of total trips. According to the data, City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 65 Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), as well as low-income and disabled people, face higher risks to safety. The plan advocates for the inclusion of active transportation into statewide planning, design, and maintenance. It also touches on funding, local coordination, and development of dedicated active transportation funding streams. These aspirations are incorporated into Port Townsend’s goals and policies. WSDOT Active Transportation Programs Design Guide (February 2024) This manual provides design guidance to prioritize comfort, safety, and accessibility. Part 1 of 2 outlines key considerations in the design process, including level of traffic stress (LTS), Equity and designing for children, climate resiliency, and safety regarding vehicle turn radius. Part 2 provides a toolbox of 49 strategies to accomplish the above considerations through appropriate infrastructure design. Port Townsend’s plan will use these strategies and incorporate them into its implementation. WSDOT Design Manual (Selected Chapters) Port Townsend’s plan will also incorporate facility design guidance from WSDOT’s Design Manual, last update September 2025. Specifically, Chapters 1510 (Pedestrian Facilities), 1515 (Shared-Use Paths), and 1520 (Roadway Bicycle Facilities) are useful sources of active transportation recommendations. . City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 66 Guidance from the National/Federal Level MUTCD The Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices is guidance developed and published by the Federal Highway Administration, and it sets the national standards for traffic signs, road markings, and signals. It is meant to ensure uniformity and predictability to travelers. Major changes to the previous 2009 manual were released in 2023, and many updates are relevant to active transportation devices and enhancements. Pedestrian safety enhancements include the standardization of high-visibility crosswalks, rapid- flashing beacons, and accessible signal buttons. Bike infrastructure updates include the official sanctioning of green-colored bike lanes, the introduction of bike boxes and bike signals, and updated signage to clarify bike rights on roadways. Additionally, the update provides guidance accounting for human error, creating context- sensitive speed limits, and flexible design to cater to the most vulnerable road users. AASHTO (American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) Like MUTCD, The American Association of State Highways and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) provides design guides and technical standards for roads, highways, bridges, and other infrastructure. AASHTO's basic guidance is typically used for highways, interstates, and other projects which require standardization and legal defensibility. The standards set by AASHTO are often car-first and based on crash data, with bike and pedestrian standards being minimal. NACTO (National Association of City Transportation Officials) In contrast to AASHTO, NACTO offers a bold approach to active transportation, prioritizing innovation and usability. Where AASHTO is conservative, NACTO is progressive and experimental. Its guidance advocates for people-first streets and provides guidance for multimodal transportation. The Urban Bikeway Design Guide, produced by NACTO, provides best practices for bike infrastructure, which go beyond the minimal standards of AASHTO and MUTCD. It encourages designing facilities not just for the "strong and fearless" riders, but for the "interested and concerned" riders. It promotes the implementation of quick-build pilot programs and adapting to City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 67 short-term usage data. The Urban Bikeway Design Guide provides a great set of tools for active cities like Port Townsend, looking to build vibrant usable streets for all. FHWA Small Town and Rural Multimodal Networks A guide that fits Port Townsend’s size and varying rural and small town streets. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 68 Criteria for the Four Strategies As introduced earlier in this plan, there will be three categories of infrastructure. Each category will have fewer design standards as listed in the below order. ADA routes have the most strict guidelines, with the least being recreational trails. The fourth, Culture, is not physical. Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes Strategy 2 – Connected Routes Strategy 3 – Recreational Trail System Strategy 4 - Culture Strategy 1 - ADA Priority Routes Careful planning and design is needed to meet criteria. Designs should follow The PROWAG standards. Strategy 2 - Connected Routes Connected Routes have varying conditions. Follow guidelines listed in this section depending on the condition, trail, shared street/neighborhood greenway, or shared-use path. Improved Trails Trail segments on a Connected Route will be “Improved Trails” to accommodate multi-modal recreation and transportation users. See the Implementation section for more information. Trails standards will include: Compacted gravel or suitable native soil surfacing Sufficient width Graded to drain Free of trip hazards such as roots Maintained vegetation Shared Streets and Neighborhood Greenways A large portion of Connected Routes will use existing or future local access, neighborhood streets. Networks like these, commonly called neighborhood greenways, is a concept widely used across the country to transform residential streets into safe, low-traffic routes for people walking and biking. Neighborhood Greenways have the following minimum requirements and optional improvements: City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 69 Minimum Requirements o Wayfinding signage, may include “sharrow” symbols on the street o Spot street repair Optional improvements depending on vehicle volumes, route popularity and observations: o Placing stop signs to give greenway the right-of-way o Traffic calming to discourage cut through traffic o Arterial Intersection crossing treatments The most important feature of a successful greenway is how safe, comfortable, and accessible it is for people walking and biking. Key characteristics include: o Low vehicle speeds (generally 20 mph or less) o Low vehicle volumes (typically fewer than 1,000 cars per day) o A relatively flat and comfortable grade for walking and biking o Attractive, direct connections to key destinations Strategy 3 - Recreational Trails Many of these trails exist today. Since they are recreational, little design is needed. Alignment may meander to avoid trees, strive for flat grades and meet streets in a safe manner. Follow the latest Engineering Design Standards (EDS). Strategy 4 - Culture No engineering design guidelines or standards apply here. Instead, this element should follow policies and programs discussed elsewhere in this plan. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 70 Level of Traffic Stress Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) is a measure of discomfort experienced by those walking, biking, or rolling. By ranking street segments on the LTS scale of 1 to 4, jurisdictions like Port Townsend can assess the conditions of their street network and address factors causing stress. In the City’s public engagement processes, it opted to use the term “traffic-induced stress” to better illustrate that traffic is the cause of stress. Traffic is inherently stressful to pedestrians and bicyclists. Proximity, noise, road design, and unpredictability play a part in stress associated with traffic. This plan encourages an approach to ensure all street segments are classified at a score of 2 or less. LTS 1. Suitable for all ages and abilities LTS 2. Comfortable for most adults LTS 3. Comfortable for confident users LTS 4. Suitable for only the very brave Exhibit 31: Acceptable Pedestrian Facilities (LTS 1 or 2) Facility Average Daily Traffic Target Speed (mph) Max Speed (mph) Shared Street (Neighborhood Greenway) 0 - 1,000 preferred1 0 – 1,500 acceptable 0 – 2,000 maximum 20 or less Not specified Shoulder, >2 feet width 0 - 1,500 20 25 Shoulder, >2 feet width 1,500 - 3,000 20 25 Shoulder, >2 feet width > 3,000 20 20 Attached Sidewalk next to traffic, 5’ minimum width 0 – > 3,000 20 – 25 30 Attached Sidewalk with buffer to traffic, 5’ minimum width2 0 – > 3,000 20 – 30 50 + 1 Consistent with City of Portland, Seattle and Kirkland Greenways 2 Per 2024 WSDOT Design Manual Chapter 1510: Physical separation typically consists of either a planting strip or other constructed buffer strip, a separated bicycle lane, a parking lane, or traffic barrier. Note that a roadway shoulder or a conventional bicycle lane are not considered physical separation. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 71 Exhibit 32: Acceptable Bike Facilities (LTS 1 or 2) Facility Average Daily Traffic Target Speed (mph) Max Speed (mph) Shared Street (Neighborhood Greenway) 0 - 1,000 preferred1 0 – 1,500 acceptable 0 – 2,000 maximum 20 or less Not specified Shoulder, >2 feet width 0 - 1,500 20 25 Shoulder, >2 feet width 1,500 - 3,000 20 25 Shoulder, >2 feet width > 3,000 20 20 Attached Sidewalk next to traffic, 5’ minimum width 0 – > 3,000 20 – 25 30 Attached Sidewalk with buffer to traffic, 5’ minimum width2 0 – > 3,000 20 – 30 50 + 1 Consistent with City of Portland, Seattle and Kirkland Greenways 2 Per 2024 WSDOT Design Manual Chapter 1510: Physical separation typically consists of either a planting strip or other constructed buffer strip, a separated bicycle lane, a parking lane, or traffic barrier. Note that a roadway shoulder or a conventional bicycle lane are not considered physical separation. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 72 Safe Routes to Schools Safe Routes to Schools (SRTS) programs are designed to make it safer and easier for students to walk or bike to school. SRTS maps currently do not exist for Port Townsend Schools but will be developed in 2026. Port Townsend School locations: 1. Salish Coast Elementary School 2. Blue Heron Middle School 3. Port Townsend High School / OCEAN School 4. Swan School (private) Public Schools only bus beyond one-mile of the school. Students must walk, bike, or be driven within one-mile of a school A one mile radius covers most of the city, per the following map. The SRTS Planning Grant for its “Connected Neighborhoods and Safe Routes to School” and beginning in 2025/2026, this program will include public outreach, pilot projects (potentially using Connected Routes), and design work for key sidewalks and other improvements. Since most of the city falls within a one-mile radius of a school, these efforts will benefit nearly all residents while ensuring safer, more equitable options for young travelers. By improving conditions near schools, SRTS reduces reliance on car trips, eases congestion around campuses, and promotes healthier, more independent travel for students. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 73 Exhibit 33: The Port Townsend Schools with One Mile Radius Source: City of Port Townsend. Port Townsend is home to the ReCyclery, a non-profit community bike project providing access to bikes, parts, and education. The ReCyclery has launched a weekly “bike bus” program to enable students to ride their bikes to and from local schools, escorted by ReCyclery staff, volunteers, and other students. In practice, this program provides both safe opportunities to ride to school and supports the associated aspirations of SRTS. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 74 Exhibit 34: Safe Routes To School Salish Coast Elementary PLACE HOLDER. TO FOLLOW THE SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL OUTREACH AND PLANNING STUDY 2026 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 75 Exhibit 35: Safe Routes To School Blue Heron Middle School PLACE HODER. TO FOLLOW THE SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL OUTREACH AND PLANNING STUDY 2026 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 76 Exhibit 36: Safe Routes To School Port Townsend High School PLACE HOLDER. TO FOLLOW THE SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL OUTREACH AND PLANNING STUDY 2026 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 77 Concurrency Concurrency ensures that transportation facilities and services are adequate to support new development as it occurs. In practice, this means growth in Port Townsend should be matched with timely improvements to streets, sidewalks, bike facilities, and transit so that the system remains safe, efficient, and accessible for all users. Port Townsend Municipal Code Chapter 12.04 New development must comply with transportation concurrency requirements per PTMC Chapter 12.06. This means a project can only proceed if adequate transportation facilities are in place or will be provided within six years of the development’s impact. A number of concurrency models for active transportation have been tried as outlined below. Most of these models are in highly urbanized areas and thus setting concurrency requirements for Active Transportation may take a simplified approach. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 78 Examples of Multimodal Concurrency The following examples were cited in Bellevue’s 2017 report on the Multimodal Level-of-Service (MMLOS) metrics, standards, and guidelines.1 Seattle: Mode Share Concurrency Seattle is transitioning from an auto-based concurrency standard based on volume-to-capacity ratios to a multimodal concurrency standard based on mode share. Both the volume and mode share concurrency standards vary across the city, reflecting a higher tolerance for congestion and a higher goal for mode share in denser areas of the city. Mode share goals are identified in the Seattle Comprehensive Plan, but as of 2017, the City was still working on the specific methodology to assess transportation concurrency related to the mode share standard. King County: Auto-based Plan Based Concurrency (Travel shed) King County has a concurrency evaluation method that considers auto LOS within various “travel sheds” using average travel speeds on state routes and arterials. LOS standards vary depending on whether the travel shed is a rural area, a rural neighborhood commercial center, an urban growth area or a rural mobility area. Rural area LOS standards are skewed to higher speeds than are urban areas. In each area, 85 percent of the state routes and arterials must meet the adopted LOS standard. King County does not test individual developments; rather they assume a development proposal meets concurrency if it is located in a travel shed that meets the LOS standards cited above. This type of concurrency assessment is known as Plan Based Concurrency. 1 City of Bellevue, WA. MMLOS Metrics, Standards & Guidelines Final Report: A Recommendation of the Bellevue Transportation Commission. April 13, 2017. https://bellevuewa.gov/sites/default/files/media/pdf_document/Bellevue_MMLOS%20FINAL.pdf. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 79 Bellingham: 2008 Multimodal transportation concurrency program, PTA (Person trips available) Bellingham implemented a multimodal transportation concurrency program in 2008. It aims to quantify the number of person trips available (PTA) for each mode, both motorized and non- motorized modes. The Comprehensive Plan includes LOS standards based on the PTA platform, as follows: Arterial Streets: LOS E which corresponds to no more than a 1.0 volume-to-capacity ratio. Transit: LOS F which corresponds to 1.0- 1.25 riders per seat (e.g. up to 50 riders on a 40- seat bus). No separate LOS thresholds are identified for pedestrians, bicycles, or trails; however, they are considered in the overall PTA measure. Based on the existing and planned transportation facilities, the City estimates the total PTA in the planning horizon year. Land use forecasts can then be tested against this transportation system to determine if the land use plans and transportation system are in line with one another. Other than determining whether future roadway and transit infrastructure meet the LOS standards, there are no explicit quantitative metrics guiding the long-range planning for the other modes. Bellingham developed the bicycle and pedestrian plans using traditional planning approaches. Redmond: Mobility units (Supply and demand) Redmond implemented a multimodal transportation concurrency program that defines LOS based on citywide person miles traveled, which are called “mobility units”. The City uses supply and demand concept to describe the program: completed infrastructure projects create a “supply” of mobility units and new developments create “demand” for mobility units. The Redmond Transportation Master Plan (TMP) lists multimodal capital projects intended to achieve the envisioned land use/transportation balance. The fundamental assumption underlying the concurrency system is that the list of projects to be constructed by the TMP’s horizon year is expected to meet the demand of new development. The number of mobility units supplied by the TMP is equal to the number of mobility units that would be consumed by the planned development. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 80 Florida The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) developed a detailed handbook for determining LOS. In addition to auto LOS, which is the typical volume to capacity ratio, the handbook addresses transit, pedestrian, and bicycle LOS. Pedestrian LOS is based on four variables: existence of a sidewalk, lateral separation of pedestrians from motorized vehicles, motorized vehicle volumes, and motorized vehicle speeds. Bicycle LOS is based on five variables: average effective width of the outside through lane, motorized vehicle volumes, motorized vehicle speeds, heavy vehicle volumes, and pavement condition. For transit, FDOT relies on the concept that frequency of service is the most relevant performance measure. FDOT uses the service frequency standards cited in the Transportation Research Board Transit Capacity and Quality of Service Manual. San Francisco Environmental Quality Index The San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) developed a Bicycle Environmental Quality Index (BEQI) and a Pedestrian Environmental Quality Index (PEQI). These indices consider a wide variety of facility characteristics and quantify how well the facility is serving pedestrians or bicycles. The PEQI has 30 variables such as the type of crosswalk and the traffic volume, and the BEQI has 22 variables that include also include traffic volume together with the presence of a marked bicycle facility. These scores help to prioritize capital investments. ATG San Francisco has also tried the concept of Auto Trips Generated (ATG) in development review. This method assumes that each new auto trip creates an incremental impact to the network. The concept is aimed at balancing mobility objectives to consider the public right-of-way as a space for all modes. It is a challenge to demonstrate the nexus between ATG and the mitigation. Port Townsend Concurrency The 2025 Periodic Comprehensive Plan update and this plan shift attention away from the automobile to active transportation for several reasons. 1. The community does not desire larger multilane streets carrying more traffic. 2. The community as requested through a vote of the public for a sales tax associated with the Transportation Benefit District and the Comprehensive Streets Program on fixing the streets we have and emphasizing investment in active transportation. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 81 3. Funding is limited and connected routes require focused investment with the limited resources which primarily rely on grants. Given the Growth Management Act allows for local control on topics such as concurrency, the City of Port Townsend proposes in the Comprehensive Plan to make the following changes to concurrency. 1. Change the Level of Service Standard for Traffic from D to F for streets that meet current standards (excluding SR20 and Mill Road within Jefferson County). The City does not have many locations other than SR20 that is experiencing failing traffic flow conditions compared to large urban areas. Furthermore, creating wider streets and adding lanes and signals is the traditional way to add traffic capacity which is not a priority. Adopting Level of Service F will negate the need for traffic studies associated with development for the purpose of traffic volume as well as focus offsite improvements to installing active transportation facilities. . 2. Access to a connected route within ¼ mile. This standard will help build improved trails and paths as well as enhance the connected route systems. 3. Access to a priority ADA route such that at least 20% of all housing units in Port Townsend are directly connected to ADA accessible routes that connect to the City’s most important facilities. This standard will primarily impact large subdivisions and supports the existing fee in lieu program to allow all new development to either build or contribute to creating connected ADA priority routes. How does this plan anticipate this type of Level of Service system to work? Several options exist. A. Continue to use the fee in lieu program with a focus on priority ADA routes. This is especially important for infill development where existing nearby sidewalk infrastructure may not exist. B. Replace the fee in lieu program with an impact fee system. This would require a study to estimate the cost of improvements needed to reach the ADA priority route and connected routes objectives. This study would establish the fee per unit that would go to the City to make improvements to the system. C. Review development for connectivity to ADA priority routes and connected routes. Reviews must make sure that any improvements have nexus and proportionality. Larger subdivisions will have larger impacts to the non-motorized system and necessitate investments including offsite investments to make sure new units are connected to the priority route system. Investments must be measured proportional to the impact. In all cases listed above, the intent of this system is for all of the community to contribute to the overall system to realize the goals in the Comprehensive Plan and this Active Transportation Plan. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 82 06 Coordinated Plans Active transportation planning in Port Townsend benefits from coordination with county, regional, and state efforts that share goals for safety, connectivity, and sustainable mobility. Jefferson County’s transportation and land use policies influence regional trail connections, roadway design, and growth patterns that extend beyond city limits. At the regional level, the Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO) provides guidance and prioritization for multimodal investments, ensuring that local projects align with broader mobility strategies and funding opportunities. Statewide initiatives, such as the Washington State Active Transportation Plan and WSDOT safety programs, further frame the context for local improvements by establishing standards and goals that promote consistent, equitable access across communities. By aligning the Port Townsend Active Transportation Plan with these coordinated efforts, the city can maximize resources, strengthen regional connections, and advance a shared vision for a safe and accessible transportation network. Furthermore, understanding how active transportation fits within Port Townsend’s broader planning framework is essential for creating a cohesive and effective system. Reviewing existing guidance and standards along with plans and policies, such as the Comprehensive Plan, Transportation Element, Capital Improvement Program, and regional or state transportation strategies, helps identify where goals align, where gaps exist, and where opportunities for coordination can strengthen outcomes. This review also ensures that the Active Transportation Plan builds on adopted community priorities, leverages previous investments, and provides clear direction for future updates to land use, transportation, and capital planning documents City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 83 Washington’s Growth Management Act The Washington State Growth Management Act provides the overarching framework for planning and expects coordination with State, Regional, County and City Planning. Goal 3 of the Growth Management Act emphasizes multimodal transportation: "Encourage efficient multimodal transportation systems that are based on regional priorities and coordinated with county and city comprehensive plans." Other goals encourage reduction of reliance on cars and access to active modes of transportation via neighborhood-scale planning. Additionally, the GMA requires transportation concurrency, meaning that infrastructure for transportation must be in place to support future development. Recently, cities have begun to include Level of Service (LOS) for active transportation concurrency measures to improve other modes of transportation other than the automobile. Port Townsend’s Comprehensive Plan includes new Level of Service Standards to support this Growth Management Goal. This chapter illustrates the hierarchy of planning and coordination required starting with State, Regional, County, and then City Planning. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 84 Regional and County Policy Peninsula RTPO Transportation Plan (Ongoing – Expected October 2025) PRTPO is the Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO) for the Peninsula region. The Peninsula region includes all of Clallam, Jefferson, Kitsap, and Mason Counties, encompassing the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas. As of the drafting of this review, its priorities include: Preservation: Taking care of existing infrastructure and protecting investments that have already been made. Multimodal Mobility: Developing an integrated multimodal transportation system that makes walking, biking, transit, and driving safe and efficient so more people can easily meet daily needs. Environmental Stewardship: Addressing past damages to habitat and environment, and mitigating transportation’s legacy impacts on our communities. Safety: Addressing location-specific problems and systemic programs that improve safety for all modes of travel, for all travelers. Economic Vitality: Investing in transportation systems that stimulate economies, enhance freight mobility, and connect people with opportunities needed to support communities. Fiscal Responsibility: Providing transportation agencies with sufficient, sustainable, reliable funding while also reducing financial burdens on small local agencies. Port Townsend’s Active Transportation Plan takes these priorities into account. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 85 Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan The 2018 Comprehensive Plan's Transportation Element emphasizes enhancing non-motorized travel through several goals and policies. That emphasis is continued in the 2025 periodic review of Jefferson County’s Comprehensive Plan. A few active transportation goals and policies from the April draft of the plan are highlighted here: Goal TR-G-3 Provide safe, accessible, and convenient routes, trails, parking facilities, trailheads, and other amenities that promote the use of non-motorized travel in a manner that integrates other forms of transportation. o Policy TR-P-3.1 Using established standards, promote coordinated and safe bicycle, equestrian, and pedestrian way improvements in accordance with the Non-motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan. o Policy TR-P-3.2 In coordination with Federal, State, and regional agencies, utilities, and citizen groups, emphasize connectivity and access to schools, parks, employment, major activity service centers, transit facilities (ferry, bus, etc.), and links between existing trails and regional trail networks during land use and transportation system development planning. o Policy TR-P-3.3 Evaluate safety issues for bicycle and pedestrian travel near schools and identify potential improvements. o Policy TR-P-3.4 Support educational opportunities for children and adults that will encourage safe use of roadways, trails, and sidewalks for all transportation modes. o Policy TR-P-3.5 Promote safe, convenient, and protected bicycle parking at activity centers such as schools, parks, commercial centers, employment and service centers, and mass transit facilities (ferry, bus, etc.) in accordance with the Non- motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan. o Policy TR-P-3.6 In coordination with the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan and the Non-motorized Transportation and Recreation Trails Plan, provide signage for on-street segments of bicycle, pedestrian, and equestrian routes in accordance with the Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). o Policy TR-P-3.7 Encourage buffering between motorized travel and non-motorized transportation modes, where appropriate and economically feasible. o Policy TR-P-3.8 Coordinate with WSDOT and PRTPO to enhance existing bicycle connectivity and safety along state highway bicycle routes. o Policy TR-P-3.9 Provide adequate and appropriate signage to promote safe and effective multimodal transportation on local and state bicycle routes. The plan mentions Jefferson County’s Non-Motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan, summarized on the following page. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 86 Jefferson County Non-Motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan (2010) This foundational plan guides the county's development of non-motorized transportation facilities and multi-purpose trails. Key components include: Bicycle Commuting Routes: Establishing designated routes to facilitate safe and efficient bicycle travel. Trail Development: Enhancing and expanding trails such as the Larry Scott Trail, Rick Tollefson Trail, and the Olympic Discovery Trail. Transit Connectivity: Improving pedestrian and bicycle connections to transit routes. Regional Integration: Connecting to regional trail facilities like the Pacific Northwest Scenic National Trail. Safe Routes to School: Developing infrastructure to ensure safe travel for students. Infrastructure Enhancements: Adding sidewalks in commercial areas, improving roadway shoulders, and creating community trails. Jefferson County's Non-Motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan was updated in 2010 and integrated into the County's 2022 PROS Plan. Jefferson County Parks, Recreation, Trails, and Open Space Plan (2022-2028) This plan builds upon previous parks and recreation efforts, focusing on community needs and future development. This 2022 PROS Plan includes several goals and policies which are relevant to the City's Active Transportation Plan, including trail/corridor connectivity to public facilities, system linkages, ADA accessibility, and sustaining cultural and environmental resources. The Jefferson County PROS Plan provides a strong policy foundation for Port Townsend’s Active Transportation Plan by emphasizing connected, inclusive, and sustainable trail systems, designing for universal access, and integrating active transportation into natural, cultural, and civic landscapes through regional collaboration. Below are relevant key points from the 2022 PROS Plan: City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 87 City and Local Planning Efforts Active transportation in Port Townsend does not exist in isolation, it is supported and influenced by a variety of local planning efforts. To help create balance, all City plans fall under the authority of the Comprehensive Plan. Reviewing these plans and policies helps ensure that the Active Transportation Plan is consistent with existing goals while also identifying opportunities to strengthen connections, fill gaps, and guide future investments to create a balanced and sustainable community Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan The Comprehensive Plan serves as the city’s long-range vision for growth, development, and quality of life. Its Transportation Element identifies goals and policies related to safe, efficient, and multimodal travel, while the Land Use Element emphasizes compact development and neighborhood connectivity that support active transportation. The Active Transportation Plan builds on these guiding policies by providing more detailed strategies for implementing the city’s vision, particularly around walking, biking, and public space improvements. Transportation Element The Transportation Element includes policies and overarching maps that guide development this plan. For example, the PT Sustainable Streets Plan is also known as a circulation map is a policy too for implementation of development regulations and overall transportation planning identifying where streets are to be built and where they are not to be built. Since, the majority of the City’s right-of-way network was originally platted as small square grids intended for high- density development, the plan calls for intentional location of streets in order to minimize maintenance by minimize miles of street, preserve open space and trail corridors, and promote urban forestry and stormwater management. This strategy ultimately reduces the financial burdens, and provide a holistic approach to development, rather than simply an auto-centric approach on a case by case basis as historically done. This community-centered strategy aligns with the aspirations of this Active Transportation Plan and the previous Non-motorized plan, it that it supports coordinated planning with predictability. Capital Facilities Element and Plan The Capital Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan includes Level of Service Standards and an assessment of the capital facilities needed to achieve the goals of the City from an infrastructure standpoint. The Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) is updated every 2 years per Growth Management Act requirements. The CFP is part of the Comprehensive Plan and is intended to outline investments funded and unfunded necessary to meet the infrastructure needs of the City based on available funding. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 88 Port Townsend Complete Streets Policy Port Townsend has adopted a Complete Streets Policy to ensure that all transportation projects consider the needs of all users, pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, drivers, and people of all ages and abilities. This policy establishes a commitment to designing and maintaining streets that are safe, accessible, and welcoming. The Active Transportation Plan operationalizes this vision by identifying specific projects, treatments, and design approaches that bring Complete Streets principles into practice throughout the community. Comprehensive Streets Program The Comprehensive Streets Program provides a citywide framework for maintaining streets and investments for street improvements that accommodate all users—pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and drivers—while supporting placemaking and public safety. The program was developed over 3 years in preparation for the Transportation Benefit District public vote. This proactive approach allows Port Townsend to coordinate infrastructure investments, prioritize improvements based on community needs, and create a consistent, safe, and inviting network for all modes of travel. Port Townsend Municipal Code The Municipal Code provides the regulatory framework for land use, development standards, and street design within the city. Provisions related to subdivision design, street connectivity, parking, sidewalks, and bicycle facilities all have a direct influence on how easily people can walk and bike in Port Townsend. The Active Transportation Plan offers opportunities to align local code with best practices, ensuring that development and redevelopment projects contribute to a safe, connected active transportation network. The Port Townsend Municipal code includes revisions associated with the Periodic Comprehensive Plan update. The code is also expected to be updated in the following years to further implement the Comprehensive Plan and this Active Transportation Plan. ADA Transition Plan The 2023 ADA Transition Plan for Pedestrian Facilities within the Public Right-of-Way outlines the City of Port Townsend’s commitment to improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The plan strives for equal access in compliance with the ADA standards and is especially important today given the city’s aging population and high disability rate, which is 21% in Jefferson County, significantly higher than state and national averages. It was officially adopted in 2023. The adoption of this plan is a major driver for this Active Transportation Plan including the identification of ADA priority routes. Implementation efforts include: City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 89 reviewing all new construction for ADA compliance, maintaining a GIS-based map of accessible routes, closing gaps in the pedestrian network, and continually updating the plan as improvements are made. updating the plan with the results of this Active Transportation Plan with the priority ADA routes map. The plan aligns with federal guidelines such as: the Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG), Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) standards, and the city’s own engineering design standards. It sets clear criteria for pedestrian facilities, including: minimum sidewalk widths, appropriate slopes, detectable warning surfaces, accessible street crossings accessible driveway crossings, and the elimination of tripping hazards. Accessible sidewalks are documented through a GIS layer available on the city's website, and any existing sidewalks not listed are assumed to be non-compliant due to common deficiencies like improper curb ramps or vertical discontinuities. The cost to upgrade all non-compliant infrastructure is estimated at $20.4 million—approximately $115 per lineal foot. To address these challenges, the city relies on: capital improvement projects, developer installed infrastructure, and targeted small-scale upgrades. Funding sources include grants, transportation benefit districts, developer impact fees, and potential property tax adjustments. The city works closely with local organizations such as Disability Awareness Starts Here (DASH) and the Accessible Communities Advisory Committee (Jefferson County ACAC), both of which review project designs and advise on prioritization. Engineering staff meet annually with these groups to assess progress and set new goals. The plan suggests expanding the work from the ADA Transition Plan between 2024 and 2026 to include public parks, trails, and other facilities. This future work will involve self-evaluations, updated maintenance procedures, staff training, and improved communication about accessibility features. To accomplish this goal, this Active Transportation Plan sets forth to prioritized ADA routes connecting public services, shopping areas, parks, and civic destinations. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 90 These efforts reflect the city’s long-standing commitment to non-motorized transportation and its vision of creating a community where all people—regardless of ability—can navigate and enjoy public spaces with safety and dignity. Local Road Safety Plan Port Townsend’s Local Road Safety Plan is updated every 2 years. The plan analyzes crash data and proposes countermeasure strategies to reduce a certain accident type with a focus on arterial streets. The number one conclusion of the Local Road Safey Plan identifies a need to lower traffic speeds and install facilities to support Active Transportation. Safe Routes to Schools Port Townsend’s Safe Routes program is also relevant to this plan. An update to these routes is scheduled through a safe routes planning grant in 2026. Schools are major nodes of activity in the city, and active transportation policies should coordinate with those of the Safe Routes program. Port Townsend’s Engineering Design Standards The City’s Engineering Design Standards reflect Port Townsend values for narrow streets, broken grids, and more recently on-street parking. They are informed by the guidelines in WSDOT, AASHTO, and other design practices. The proposed policies in this plan may have implications for the City’s engineering standards, necessitating updates to these standards. Port Townsend Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan (2020) Port Townsend is updating its Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan in 2026. Much of the open space analysis work has been completed concurrently with the Comprehensive Plan to help inform housing opportunities, transportation, and open space preservation and enhancement together. The PROS plan recognizes that parks and open space systems must be integrated into a broader network of walking and biking routes to serve the full community. Furthermore, the some of the trail systems identified in this Active Transportation Plan have recreational elements and are maintained by the parks maintenance department. As such, the PROS plan and Active Transportation Plan work together to fulfill many goals in the Comprehensive Plan. . Additionally, the PROS Plan highlights the importance of equitable access to recreation which is planned to be accomplished through this plans ADA priority routes and connected routes maps. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 91 07 Plan Framework: Goals & Policies The framework of this Active Transportation Plan is built on a set of goals and policies that reflect community priorities, align with citywide and regional objectives, and provide a clear path for implementation. These goals articulate the long-term vision for a safe, connected, and equitable active transportation system, while supporting policies guide day-to-day decision- making and investment strategies. Together, they establish a consistent foundation for evaluating projects, shaping land use and transportation decisions, and coordinating with partners. By grounding the plan in goals and policies, Port Townsend can ensure that each step taken, whether a quick-build project, a major infrastructure investment, or a policy update, moves the city closer to its vision of accessible, people-centered mobility. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 92 Goals Goal 1 – Connectivity Create a connected, comfortable, convenient, inviting, and effective walking and rolling network so people can reach their destinations. Goal 2 – Opportunity Eliminate disparities in access to safe, healthy, active transportation connections for people and communities most dependent on walking, bicycling, and transit. Goal 3 – Partnership Collaborate and coordinate with public, tribal, nonprofit, and private partners to complete and improve the network across boundaries. Goal 4 – Participation Increase the frequency and percentage of everyday trips made by walking, bicycling, and transit. Goal 5 – Safety Strive to create a safe walking and rolling environment consistent with Goal 1: Connectivity. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 93 Policies Exhibit 37: Policies Matrix Po l i c y N u m b e r Policy Co n n e c t i v i t y Op p o r t u n i t y Pa r t n e r s h i p Pa r t i c i p a t i o n Sa f e t y 1 Connect key locations such as schools, transit stops, commercial centers, public buildings and open spaces. x x x x x 2 Prioritize investments identified in the action plan, such as the Safe Routes to School, Connected Routes, and ADA Priority Routes. x x x x x 3 Update the ADA Transition Plan to be consistent with this plan. x x x x x 4 Coordinate the Active Transportation Plan with the Streets Master Circulation Plan. x x x x 5 Create and maintain context sensitive connected routes that vary in standard based on use and location. x X x x 6 Create a maintenance schedule that meets the needs of each trail standard and site conditions. x x x 7 Coordinate local route improvements with this plan, and support incremental investments to meet the ultimate goal of a citywide connected route system. x x x x 8 Develop Engineering Design Standards (EDS) and street sections to locate 20% of all new and existing houses on direct accessible streets (ADA). x x x 9 Prioritize investments based on equitable access x x 10 Develop a Safe Routes To School Plan in partnership with local schools x x x 11 Coordinate with Jefferson Transit Authority. x x x City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 94 Po l i c y N u m b e r Policy Co n n e c t i v i t y Op p o r t u n i t y Pa r t n e r s h i p Pa r t i c i p a t i o n Sa f e t y 12 Work with local private and public organizations to implement a coordinated mobility system. x x x x 13 Continue city staff participation in community stakeholder boards and advisory boards. x x x 14 Require property owners to maintain sidewalks, landscaping, and other frontage elements to ensure safe and unobstructed pathways, with enforcement mechanisms for compliance. x x x 15 Support active transportation implementations in the City’s transportation network plans. x x x x 16 Ensure building and zoning regulations encourage active transportation and reduce sprawl. x x x x 17 Review proposed zoning to meet active transportation goals and policies x x x 18 Coordinate activity hubs with active transportation capital plan infrastructure x x x x 19 Increase awareness of existing active transportation routes. x x x 20 Construct for all ages and abilities with a focus near schools and other areas with frequent vulnerable users. x x x 21 Construct for all ages and abilities with a focus near schools and other areas with frequent vulnerable users. x x x 22 Implement LOS standards for Active Transportation x x x x x 23 Adopt and implement a motor-vehicle Traffic Calming Manual. x x x 24 Incorporate Active Transportation policies into the Engineering Design Standards (EDS) and require development to construct frontage improvements. x x x x x City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 95 Po l i c y N u m b e r Policy Co n n e c t i v i t y Op p o r t u n i t y Pa r t n e r s h i p Pa r t i c i p a t i o n Sa f e t y 25 Develop and implement education and enforcement programs to support active transportation such as traffic violations, parking management and code enforcement. x x x 26 Address conflicts between active transportation users through monitoring, prioritizing, and implementing safety measures. x x x x 27 Address conflicts between motor vehicles and active transportation through monitoring, prioritizing, and implementing safety measures. x x x x 28 Review all new construction for compliance with ADA standards. x x x x x 29 Continue to update GIS-based map of both accessible street segments and segments without accessibility. x x x 30 Monitor improvements over time and keep a log of completed projects, ensuring adequate maintenance and long-term connection. x x x x 31 Provide safe, accessible, and convenient routes, trails, parking facilities, trailheads, and other amenities that promote non- motorized travel in a manner that integrates other forms of transportation. x x x x x 32 Using established standards, promote coordinated and safe bicycle and pedestrian way improvements in coordination with Federal, State, and regional agencies, utilities, and citizen groups. x x x x 33 Emphasize connectivity and access to schools, parks, employment, major activity service centers, transit facilities (ferry, bus, etc.), and links between existing trails and regional trail networks during land use and transportation system development planning. x x x x City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 96 Po l i c y N u m b e r Policy Co n n e c t i v i t y Op p o r t u n i t y Pa r t n e r s h i p Pa r t i c i p a t i o n Sa f e t y 34 Evaluate safety issues for bicycle and pedestrian travel near schools and identify potential improvements. x x x x 35 Support educational opportunities for children and adults that will encourage safe use of roadways, trails, and sidewalks for all transportation modes. x x x 36 Promote safe, convenient, and protected bicycle parking at activity centers such as schools, parks, commercial centers, employment and service centers, and mass transit facilities (ferry, bus, etc.) in accordance with the Non-motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan. x x x x 37 In coordination with the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan, provide signage for on-street segments of active transportation routes in accordance with the Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). x x x x 38 Encourage buffering between motorized travel and non- motorized transportation modes, where appropriate and economically feasible. x x x 39 Coordinate with WSDOT and PRTPO to enhance existing bicycle connectivity and safety along state highway bicycle routes. X x x x x 40 Where accessible ADA routes are not required, plan trails to link neighborhoods with key points of interest such as parks, significant open spaces, schools, cultural resources, shoreline access areas, mixed use centers, and employment centers. Developments should provide trail improvements according to the Active Transportation Plan consistent with relative impact. x x x 41 Develop and adopt standards regarding trail uses that minimize conflicts between different types of trail users (e.g., pedestrians, bicyclists, and equestrians). x x x x x City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 97 42 Implement the Active Transportation Plan with the following goals: Endeavor to invest 20% of annual transportation investments towards ADA priority route improvements Prioritize investments around completing connected routes. Seek grants and prioritize projects benefitting disadvantaged communities Develop outreach to encourage a culture supportive of active transportation. Plan and implement annual improvements using Transportation Benefit District funds: o 40-60% pavement repair o 20-40% grant match for Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan o 10-20% Sidewalk, ADA upgrades and neighborhood traffic calming x x x x 43 Plan for and implement an interconnected system for pedestrians and bicyclists with a safe, convenient, services that fully support trip-making connections between residential areas, employment centers, shopping, recreational facilities, points of interest, schools, public transit, and other public services within the City. Develop this system using measures that include: a. Physically separating pedestrian and vehicle (including bicycles) traffic; b. Encouraging separated internal pedestrian circulation systems in new or redeveloping commercial-retail districts; c. Developing policies that address conditions warranting illumination of pedestrian crossings; d. Providing pedestrian facilities that meet ADA requirements; e. Giving special consideration to pedestrian and bicyclist opportunities in school, park, sports, and commercial areas; and f. Expanding and improving the City-wide sidewalk/pathway system including on- and off-road trails to establish safe integration of bicycle and pedestrian circulation. x x x x x City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 98 44 Require safe, convenient walkways and bikeways in proximity to all arterials and collectors including streets near multi- family and commercial development. x x x x 45 Plan and implement safe, convenient walkways and crosswalks on streets leading to or near transit stops. x x x x x 46 Ensure that the implementation and maintenance of non- motorized improvements are coordinated and consistent in design and construction. x x 47 Maintain a safe route to school map to assure that safety and accident prevention for pedestrian and bicycle travel to school receives the highest consideration. Work with the School District and private institutions to jointly prepare the maps and to implement the design and construction of pedestrian and bicycle facilities in and adjacent to school zones. x x x x X 48 Establish pedestrian and bicycle links between public facilities, commercial and employment centers, neighborhoods, and higher density residential areas. x x X 49 Consider establishing maintenance programs to remove barriers and promote connected routes such as: Design and construct a trail network in size and methods that can be feasibly maintained for safe and consistent travel. Identify key trails for prioritized maintenance Encourage abutting property owners to embrace their responsibility to maintain most gravel and dirt trails and adjacent vegetation. Support volunteer groups with resources to help maintain and build trails. Unless noted through covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs), developed (key gravel or paved) trails will be managed by the city.) x x x x 50 Distinguish between areas where non-motorized transportation should be encouraged as a top priority (i.e., the National Register Historic District) and areas that are likely to be more auto-oriented (i.e., the Gateway Commercial District). x x 51 Study and consider setting a level of service standard for pedestrian and bicycle facilities that supports the vision of linking the community via a comprehensive system of convenient pathways and bikeways. x x x x x City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 99 Actions The following actions provide a roadmap for implementing the Active Transportation Plan. They outline practical steps that connect policy goals with on-the-ground improvements, ensuring Port Townsend creates a safe, connected, and equitable system for walking, biking, and rolling. 1. Build and Connect the Network Connect key destinations such as schools, transit stops, commercial centers, public buildings, and open spaces. Eliminate gaps and barriers by incorporating projects into the Capital Improvement Plan. Actively pursue state and federal grants to fund local connectivity projects. Consider and require connectivity in new development areas. Clarify routes with a comprehensive wayfinding and signage program. 2. Prioritize Key Investments Advance priority projects identified in the plan, including Safe Routes to School, Connected Routes, and ADA Priority Routes. Update the ADA Transition Plan to align with this plan. Coordinate the Active Transportation Plan with the City’s Streets Master Circulation Plan. Create a publicly accessible overlay map showing both plans to visualize coordinated efforts. 3. Design and Maintenance Standards Develop and apply context-sensitive standards for Connected Routes that vary by location and use. Create a maintenance schedule that reflects trail types, standards, and site conditions. Coordinate incremental improvements to meet the long-term goal of a citywide connected route system. Pursue grants and local funding to support phased improvements. Develop prioritization criteria to direct funding toward projects with the highest connectivity benefits. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 100 4. Development Standards and Land Use Integration Develop Engineering Design Standards (EDS) to ensure 20% of homes are on direct, accessible ADA-compliant streets. Amend development standards to require proportional active transportation improvements with new development, with thresholds based on land use, zoning, and project scope. Explore replacing fee-in-lieu systems with targeted impact fees for high-impact connections. Amend the municipal code to require land use applications to meet active transportation goals and policies. Ensure zoning and building regulations encourage active transportation and limit sprawl. 5. Equity and Access Prioritize investments that expand equitable access to safe walking and biking routes. Partner with schools to develop a Safe Routes to School Plan. Coordinate with Jefferson Transit Authority to integrate transit and active transportation. Work with local organizations to create a coordinated mobility system. Engage the public in reviewing projects to ensure accessibility and equity are prioritized. 6. Partnerships and Coordination Continue staff participation on stakeholder and advisory boards. Coordinate activity hubs (schools, parks, downtown, transit centers) with capital plan investments. Increase public awareness of existing and planned active transportation routes. Collaborate with regional, county, and state partners to align active transportation with broader transportation planning. 7. Safety, Design, and User Experience Construct facilities that serve all ages and abilities, especially near schools and vulnerable- user areas. Consider enhancing enforcement activities associated with policing and code enforcement. Adopt a Level of Service standard for active transportation based on Level of Traffic Stress (LTS). Adopt and implement a Traffic Calming Manual to reduce motor vehicle conflicts and reduce LTS. Incorporate Active Transportation policies into Engineering Design Standards (EDS), for requiring development frontage improvements. Address conflicts between active transportation users and between active transportation and motor vehicles through design and education. 8. Sidewalks, Frontage, and Maintenance City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 101 Require property owners to maintain sidewalks, landscaping, and frontage features to ensure safe, unobstructed pathways. Develop enforcement mechanisms for compliance. Consider a point-of-sale or time-of-sale sidewalk improvement program. 9. Education and Enforcement Implement education and enforcement programs to support safe active transportation. Strengthen parking management and code enforcement to reduce conflicts and improve safety. Promote traffic law awareness for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to encourage mutual respect on the streets. Explore implementing a speed enforcement camera program as outlined in the Speed Safety Camera Readiness Guide produced by Washington State Traffic Safety Commission, see Appendix C. Implementation Matrix The Implementation Matrix (Exhibit 38) translates the goals and policies of the Active Transportation Plan into concrete, actionable steps. It identifies key actions, responsible parties, timeframes, priorities, and potential funding sources, providing a clear roadmap for moving projects from planning to completion. By organizing these actions in a single, easy-to-reference format, the matrix helps city staff, partners, and the public track progress, coordinate efforts, and ensure that investments in active transportation are strategic, equitable, and effective. See the implementation matrices in this plan. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 102 Exhibit 38: Implementation Matrix Action Areas Lead / Partners Timeframe Network Connectivity City of Port Townsend, Jefferson County, Jefferson Transit Short-Term Priority Investments City Public Works, School District Short-Term Design & Maintenance Public Works, Parks Department Ongoing Development Standards Planning Department, Public Works Mid-Term Equity & Access City, School District, Jefferson Transit, Community Groups Short-Term Partnerships & Coordination City, RTPO, WSDOT, Local Organizations Ongoing Safety & User Experience Public Works, Police, Planning Short- to Long-Term Sidewalks & Frontage Planning, Public Works, Code Enforcement Mid-Term Education & Enforcement Police Department, Schools, Advocacy Groups Ongoing City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 103 08 Implementation Bringing the Previous Plan Forward The previous plan had several long routes that served as the backbone of the trail system. This plan kept the same intent with slight modifications based on current existing trails /paths and planned Connected Routes. These long routes are considered “Signature Routes” and are a mix of the three categories – ADA, Connected Routes, and Recreational Trails. Signature Routes include: Creative District Trails Cicmehan Trails Waterwalk Beach Trail Grand Loop Draft Olympic Discovery Trail City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 104 Exhibit 39: Signature Routes City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 105 General Transportation Standards Action Items The following sections provide needed action items for each category. 1. Update the Engineering Design Standards to coordinate with this plan. 2. The City will incorporate Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) analysis into its engineering design standards. WSDOT has the goal of meeting LTS 1 or 2 for pedestrian and bicycle projects. This encourages flexible design to “right size” projects for the project specifics such as vehicle volume, speeds and street section. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 106 Exhibit 40: General Engineering Action Items Task # Description 0-1 Years 1-5 Years 1 Engineering Design Standards Update X 2 Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) Standard Adoption X 3 Work with Council to explore programs including: Speed Safety cameras Golf Cart Zones X 4 Establish clear rules for micromobility use across different facility types, roads, sidewalks, trails, and shared-use paths. X Four Strategies The following Implementation of the four strategies outline in the Plan is critical to making a difference and meeting the goals of the Comprehensive Plan. This chapter outlines key implementation strategies accordingly: Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes: Ensuring that key pedestrian routes meet ADA standards so all residents and visitors, regardless of ability, can travel safely and comfortably. Strategy 2 – Connected Routes: Building a network of continuous, safe, and inviting routes for walking, biking, and rolling that link neighborhoods, schools, parks, and major destinations. Strategy 3 – Recreational Trails: For non-designated connected or ADA priority routes, unimproved trails remain an important part of Port Townsend’s identity. These trails are considered recreational as a result of a lower level of standard of care and maintenance. Strategy 4 – Culture: Building a culture that respects active transportation include behavior of motorists, adjoining property owners maintaining their sidewalks and frontage, parking management, courtesy between walkers, bikers, rollers, and drivers is critical for effective and safer streets. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 107 Exhibit 41: Combined Four Strategy Active Transportation Plan City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 108 Strategy 1 – ADA Priority Routes Location: Construct ADA priority routes per the ADA Priority Routes Map. These routes generally follow arterial streets with some additional connections on local streets to key points of interest. Project Prioritization: The city worked with the stakeholder committee, DASH and solicited public feedback, see Public Outreach. See the table in this section for priority projects. Funding: o Grants: See Funding Section for details. The city will continue to pursue grants that fund active transportation. These grants may construct bike lanes and or sidewalk as part of a large street rebuilding program, or smaller grants that fund only sidewalk. The City will look for alternative grants that allow alternative approaches, such as connected routes. o Sidewalk Fee in Lieu: The city will continue this program, see Funding Strategies section for details. This fund can help fill small sidewalk projects or help contribute to larger projects. Moving to a Traffic Impact Fee (TIF) could replace this program once developed. o Transportation Benefit District: The city will continue this program, see Funding Strategies section for details. Lists and Feasibility o The following maps and project lists are long and constructing all may take more than 10 years. o The long list of diverse projects, in scope and budget, is helpful when applying for grants given the specific selection criteria. o Unconstructed projects will be considered to carry over to the next Active Transportation Plan City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 109 Exhibit 42: Overall ADA Priority Routes Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 110 Exhibit 43: SE (Downtown /Uptown) ADA Priority Projects Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 111 Exhibit 44: SW (Castle Hill) ADA Priority Projects Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 112 Exhibit 45: NW (N. of Hastings, W of San Juan) ADA Priority Projects Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 113 Exhibit 46: NE (Fort Worden / North Beach) ADA Priority Projects Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 114 Exhibit 47: ADA Sidewalk Planning Costs # Project Unit ($ per_) Unit Cost 1 Sidewalk Lineal Foot $250 2 Sidewalk Ramp Each $8,000 3 Block of Sidewalk with Two Ramps Per Block $70,000 Paved Shoulder / Path Lineal Foot $100 Exhibit 48: High Priority ADA Projects - SE Quadrant (Uptown/Downtown) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # Ramps # Bulbouts Multi- Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes SE Quadrant (Downtown / Uptown) SE 1 Memorial Field Bulbout at Washington entrance 1 $30,000.00 does not include ramps into the stadium SE 2 Jefferson / Skate Park to Jackson (Point Hudson Property line) Bulbout on w side of Monroe at Memorial field, Sidewalk and ramp at Jackson, S Side. 110 1 1 $65,500.00 does not include tree removal cost SE 3 Blaine (Van Buren to Harrison) sidewalk and ramps. N Side Only. 280 2 $86,000.00 does not include cross street ramps. SE 4 Benton (Lawrence to Benton/ High School) sidewalk and ramps. W Side. 210 7 $108,500.00 does not include cross street ramps. SE 5 Harrison St (Post Office to Lawrence) One block of sidewalk plus ramps W side only. 250 5 1 $132,500.00 does not include cross street ramps. SE 6 Lawrence St (Kearney to Walker) sidewalk and ramps. N Side Only. 530 2 1 $178,500.00 Will be part of a larger street project City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 115 SE 7 Washington / Walker (Sims to Courthouse) Sidewalk and ramps, N. side of Washington and E. side of Walker 670 3 $191,500.00 Active Project. Construction Fall 2025 SE 8 Benton (Lawrence to Benton/ High School) sidewalk and ramps. E. Side Only. 700 8 $239,000.00 does not include cross street ramps. SE 9 Lawrence St (Tyler to Monroe) sidewalk and ramps. Both sides 500 18 9 $539,000.00 Will be part of a larger street project SE 10 Lawrence St (Walker to Harrison) sidewalk and ramps. Both sides 750 24 12 $739,500.00 Will be part of a larger street project SE 11 Lawrence St (Harrison to Tyler) Completed 2025 - - - Complete SE Quadrant ADA Subtotal $2,310,000.00 Exhibit 49: High Priority ADA Projects - SW Quadrant (Castle Hill) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # Ramps # Bulbouts Multi- Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes SW Quadrant (Castle Hill) SW 1 7th (QFC to Sheridan) Sidewalk and ramps S side 135 1 $41,750 SW 2 10th (Sheridan to Cleveland) Sidewalk and ramps S side 210 1 $60,500 SW 3 Rosecrans (9th to 10th) Sidewalk cut through 200 2 $66,000 no cross street ramps. Does not include retaining walls SW 4 Sims (along garden center) Sidewalk and ramps 260 1 $73,000 Active Project by Port. Construction 2026? SW 5 12th and Landes Intersection Sidewalk and ramps 300 2 4 $211,000 Coordinate with Olympic Discovery Trail. SW 6 Sims (Logan to Hancock) (Bishop Canyon) Sidewalk and ramps S side 750 2 $203,500 Active Project. WSDOT Ped Bike Grant. Construction 2026? City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 116 SW 7 Sims and Sheridan Intersection sidewalk to west. Possible enhanced Sims crossing not included in cost 550 5 2 $237,500 Sandy Williams Planning/30% Design Grant Secured. Construction year not identified SW 8 19th (Landes to McNeil) Sidewalk and ramps. S. side. 820 3 $229,000 Construction 2026? SW 9 Sims (Haines to Safeway Gas station) Sidewalk and ramps 1050 $262,500 Active Project by Port. Construction 2026? SW 10 Sheridan (10th to 15th) Sidewalk and ramps E side 950 8 $301,500 SW 11 9th (McPherson to Hancock) Sidewalk and ramps, see notes. N side 1300 7 $381,000 consider a shared-use path for bikes, Sheridan to McPherson SW 12 19th (Sheridan to Landes) Sidewalk and ramps S side 1730 16 $560,500 critical gap in network. also consider a lower cost, interim project. Sheridan / Discovery Intersection Replace Ramps 6 $48,000 SW Quadrant ADA Subtotal $2,627,750 Exhibit 50: High Priority ADA Projects - NW Quadrant (N of Hastings, W of San Juan) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # Ramps # Bulbouts Multi-Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes NW Quadrant (N of Hastings, W of San Juan) NW 1 39th / 38th (Wilson to San Juan) Multi-modal path. Safe Routes to School 2,800 $280,000 NW 2 Admiralty / 47th (San Juan to Spruce) Sidewalk and ramp to 47th. Coordinate with 47th st connected route. 1100 3 $299,000 NW Quadrant ADA Subtotal $579,000 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 117 Exhibit 51: High Priority ADA Projects - NE Quadrant (Fort Worden and North Beach) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # Ramps # Bulbouts Multi-Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes NE Quadrant (Fort Worden and North Beach) NE 1 San Juan and Admiralty (47th) Stub ramp and sidewalk to east towards Fort Worden. 70 2 $33,500 NE Quadrant ADA Subtotal $33,500 The following projects were identified as lower priority and do not show up on the priority maps. Exhibit 52: Other ADA Projects - SE Quadrant (Uptown/Downtown) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # of Ramps # Bulbouts Multi-Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes SE Quadrant (Downtown / Uptown) SE 12 Pierce (Jefferson to Lawrence) ADA Ramps, E. side of street 5 $40,000 no cross street ramps. SE 13 Monroe St (Lincoln to Blaine) ramps on west side of Monroe. 6 $48,000 SE 14 Pierce (Lawrence to Van Ness) ADA Ramps, E. side of street 7 $56,000 no cross street ramps. SE 15 Walker (Lawrence to Jefferson / Courthouse) sidewalk and ramps. W. Side Only plus ramp crossing at Franklin 250 5 $102,500 does not include cross street ramps. SE 16 Harrison St (Lincoln to Blaine) sidewalk and ramps. E Side Only. 360 3 $114,000 does not include cross street ramps. SE 17 F St (San Juan to Olympic Ave / Valley Trail) sidewalk and ramps. S Side Only. 680 1 $178,000 SE 18 Blaine (Walker to Benton/ High School) sidewalk and ramps. E. Side Only. 700 5 1 $245,000 does not include cross street ramps or retaining walls SE 19 Cherry (A to E) sidewalk and ramps. W Side Only. 1000 1 $258,000 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 118 SE 20 Cherry (F to O) sidewalk and ramps. E Side Only. 1650 13 $516,500 no cross street ramps. Ramp crossing Walker at Tremont SE 21 Lawrence St (Harrison to Tyler) Completed 2025 - - - Complete SE Quadrant ADA Subtotal $1,558,000 Exhibit 53: Other ADA Projects - SW Quadrant (Castle Hill) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # of Ramps # Bulbouts Multi-Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes SW Quadrant (Castle Hill) SW 13 Sheridan (Sims to 7th) Sidewalk and ramps E side 700 2 $191,000 SW 14 McPherson (7th to 9th) Sidewalk and ramps E side. Sidewalk towards Business Park 620 2 $171,000 SW Quadrant ADA Subtotal $362,000 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 119 Exhibit 54: Other ADA Projects - NW Quadrant (N of Hastings, W of San Juan) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # of Ramps # Bulbouts Multi-Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes NW Quadrant (N of Hastings, W of San Juan) None NW Quadrant ADA Subtotal $0 Exhibit 55: Other ADA Projects - NE Quadrant (Fort Worden and North Beach) # Location Description Sidewalk Length (feet) # of Ramps # Bulbouts Multi-Use Path or Shoulder Cost Notes NE Quadrant (Fort Worden and North Beach) NE 13 Cherry/Redwood/W (O to Fort Worden) W. Side Only 2700 10 $755,000 NE Quadrant ADA Subtotal $755,000 Strategy 2 – Connected Routes As discussed in the Design Guidelines section, the minimum requirement for shared streets / neighborhood greenways is wayfinding signage. For Port Townsend’s Connected Routes, the minimum standards should include: Wayfinding signage Repair any surfacing hazards (potholes or roots on priority trails) Establish a priority trail, if not existing Over time, incremental improvements may be installed, as needed for the specific route as budget allows. By phasing improvements in this way, Port Townsend can establish its Connected Routes quickly, then refine them based on traffic volumes, comfort levels, and usage. This practical approach balances safety and usability with available resources while laying the foundation for a citywide system of safe, inviting neighborhood routes. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 120 Exhibit 56: Overall Connected Routes Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 121 Exhibit 57: SE (Downtown /Uptown) Connected Routes Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 122 Exhibit 58: SW (Castle Hill) Connected Routes Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 123 Exhibit 59: NW (N. of Hastings, W of San Juan) Connected Routes Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 124 Exhibit 60: NE (Fort Worden / North Beach) Connected Routes Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 125 The current plan proposes the following Connected Route Lengths Exhibit 61: Connected Routes Summary Connected Routes Length miles feet Existing Street 18.5 98,000 Improved Trail 12.5 66,000 Interim Hastings Trail 1 5,000 Future connection 1.7 9,000 Exhibit 62: Connected Routes Planning Costs # Project Unit ($ per_) Unit Cost 1 Minimum Requirements Fix Potholes, Spot Repair Lineal Foot of street $20 2 Improved Trail (major work: tree removal, grading, gravel) Lineal Foot of trail $50 3 Improved Trail (minor work: grub and gravel) Lineal Foot of trail $14 4 Wayfinding Signage Lineal Foot entire route $2 5 Street Connected Route Per Block $1,000 to $6,000 6 Priority Trail Connected Route Per Block $4,000 to $14,000 7 Optional Future Additions, As needed Stop Signs on Side Streets (Connected Route has right-of-way) Per Block $1,000 8 Traffic Calming Per Block $1,000 to $10,000 9 Improved Crossing as Busy Streets (central refuge or diverter) Per Block $2,000 to $20,000 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 126 Exhibit 63: Connected Routes Projects # Location Description Length (feet) Cost per Foot Cost Notes 1 Street Segments Wayfinding signage only 98,000 $2 $196,000 2 Street Segments Spot paving repair. Work with Street Dept. to create a list 98,000 $20 $1,960,000 estimate. need to verify with detailed project list. 3 Minor Improved Trail Segments Priority Trails - Maintain trails to meet trail width, vegetation and hazards per EDS 52,800 $14 $739,200 assumed 80% 4 Major Improved Trail Segments Priority Trails - Maintain trails to meet trail width, vegetation and hazards per EDS 13,200 $50 $660,000 assumed 20% Total $3,555,200 Exhibit 64: Interim Hastings Trail # Location Description Trail Length (feet) Cost per Foot Cost Notes 1 Hastings Trail Based on need form community input. This is a proposed interim solution before the ultimate bike lanes and sidewalk may be funded. 5000 14 $70,000 Exhibit 65: Future Connected Routes Projects (5 to 10 Years) # Location Description Length (feet) Cost Notes 1 TBD Observe use and consider additional treatments such: as stop signs on intersecting streets, traffic calming, improved crossings at major streets TBD TBD Strategy 3 – Recreational Trails As discussed in the Design Guidelines section, recreational trails may be more primitive in nature since they will not serve as long connections. They may resemble hiking trails. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 127 Exhibit 66: Overall Recreational Trails Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 128 Exhibit 67: SE (Downtown /Uptown) Recreational Trails Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 129 Exhibit 68: SW (Castle Hill) Recreational Trails Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 130 Exhibit 69: NW (N. of Hastings, W of San Juan) Recreational Trails Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 131 Exhibit 70: NE (Fort Worden / North Beach) Recreational Trails Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 132 Below describes that recreational trails will primarily be constructed by infill development or by volunteer groups. Maintenance of these trails will be the responsibility of the adjoining property owner, volunteers and limited work by the City Parks department. Exhibit 71: Recreational Trail Implementation # Location Description Length (feet) 1Cost Notes SE Quadrant (Downtown / Uptown) 1 Existing Notify adjoining property owners to maintain trails NA $0 2 New Per the plan, continue to develop trails with infill development and or volunteer groups NA $0 SW Quadrant (Castle Hill) 3 New Per the plan, continue to develop trails with infill development and or volunteer groups NA $0 4 New Per the plan, continue to develop trails with infill development and or volunteer groups NA $0 NW Quadrant (N of Hastings, W of San Juan) 5 New Per the plan, continue to develop trails with infill development and or volunteer groups NA $0 6 New Per the plan, continue to develop trails with infill development and or volunteer groups NA $0 NE Quadrant (Fort Worden and North Beach) 7 New Per the plan, continue to develop trails with infill development and or volunteer groups NA $0 8 New Per the plan, continue to develop trails with infill development and or volunteer groups NA $0 1 The city may contribute some staff time, materials and or equipment. Costs should be part of the annual budget. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 133 Strategy 4 – Culture Building on Port Townsends culture of supporting active transportation necessitates the next level of community participation in making the city walking, biking, and rolling environment welcoming. This entails changes in behaviors to walk the talk. A number of strategies are outlined as follows: Enforcement Enforcement are essential components of a safe, functional active transportation system, and enforcement is recognized as one of the “6 E’s” of bicycle and pedestrian planning (Education, Encouragement, Enforcement, Engineering, Evaluation, Equity). Enforcement strategies complement maintenance by promoting compliance with traffic laws and encouraging safe behaviors for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. This includes monitoring speed limits, crosswalk usage, parking violations, and conflicts between motor vehicles and active transportation users. Coupled with education and community engagement, enforcement ensures that streets function safely, reinforces shared responsibility among users, and helps reduce accidents and injuries throughout the city. Maintenance Maintenance strategies focus on keeping sidewalks, bike lanes, trails, and multi-use paths in good condition by regularly inspecting surfaces, repairing hazards, clearing snow and debris, and ensuring proper signage and markings. Well-maintained infrastructure reduces risks for all users and increases confidence and usage across the network. The vast majority of maintenance impacting active transportation users relies on property owners maintaining their street frontage. Whether a sidewalk exists or not, property owners can create space and keep areas clear for walkers, cyclists, and other active ways of traveling. The largest impact community members can have is to maintain vegetation that overhangs sidewalks and the street. Keeping this area clear to a height of 7 feet and making sure that sidewalks are full width clear of vegetation is especially important for those with mobility impairment as well as those pushing strollers. Most City residents currently maintain their street frontage. This transition creates equality in maintenance of vegetation. Until this year, 30% of the City's labor was dedicated to vegetation maintenance. This transition has allowed City staff to work on drainage control necessary to preserve the streets. Water is the number one enemy of streets and trails, especially in Port Townsend, where most of the ditches have filled in over time. This transition was also coupled with the Parks division of the city performing more maintenance on the trail system. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 134 In general, property owners should maintain their frontage from the street edge or the trail edge to the right of way line as required in City code and state laws. Extensive education and outreach along with code enforcement is necessary to make this a reality for the city. Voluntarily performing this maintenance is the desired outcome out of respect for active transportation users. Street Parking: Street parking is encouraged with the latest update to the Comprehensive Plan in order to promote greater density. Additionally, in some areas of the City, vehicles are parked on the sidewalk along narrow streets without vertical curb. This results in greater obstructions to active transportation users and therefore, outreach and education to include how residents can park their cars to maintain pedestrian safety especially in areas where sidewalks do not exist. Sidewalk and bike lane maintenance in the winter Although Port Townsend does not have a lot of snow, during inclement weather is when many people choose to walk instead of drive. Property owners are required to shovel snow from the frontage of their property to make a path for pedestrians and to clear the ice. This is especially important in public places and the commercial areas of the City. The City should also consider plowing snow for the bike lanes as well. User Respect for One Another Understanding how various users might be challenged and respecting others is another way to improve the culture around active transportation. Examples such as riding bicycles too fast on a sidewalk create conflicts between walkers and cyclists. Also, many people experience disabilities may not be able to see or hear people or cars, and thus having awareness of others and potential impacts is helpful to others. Finally, many shared streets in Port Townsend have the potential for conflict between vehicles and active transportation users. Some cities are now installing speed limits on shared use paths. Speed control for motor vehicle traffic also helps as discussed in the traffic calming section. Providing comprehensive education on how to show kindness and respect between user groups is beneficial for all modes of transportation. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 135 Mapping/Inventory/Monitoring 1. The City should maintain and update an inventory of all formal and informal trails, and periodically update connected routes and the transportation portion of the Capital Improvement Plan. 2. The City should monitor over time all modes of transportation along with the inventories to provide the greatest opportunity for meeting the goals of the Comprehensive Plan Transportation Element and the Growth Management Act. 3. The City should publicize maps of connected and ADA priority routes and plan accordingly to meet the level of service objectives. Partnerships with local advocacy groups such as DASH can leverage outreach and information sharing for the benefit of the public. This plan builds upon the walking trail routes provided in the 2004 Port Townsend Walking Map (City of Port Townsend), the 2003 Quimper Peninsula Bicycle Map (Port Townsend Bicycle Association), and Jefferson County’s Transit system maps (Jefferson Transit). These maps are outdated and need updating. The new connected route maps joins walking, recreation, and connectivity based on existing infrastructure, grades, and common walking routes enjoyed by residents. These maps are provided for historical context to illustrate loops that may or may not connect places. An action item resulting from this plan will be to update these maps with new user friendly maps. Exhibit 72: 2004 Port Townsend Walking Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 136 Exhibit 73: 2004 Port Townsend Walking Map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 137 The Cicemehan trail map is a great resource for residents and visitors desiring a cultural walking and biking experience. This map will be updated to coordinate with the connected routes map. An example of the map is shown below. Exhibit 74: Cicemehan Trail Map This map includes bike trails such as Historic Downtown and Uptown (1.5 miles) Highlights: Pope Marine Park, viewpoint at end of Clay Street, Victorian homes, Uptown business district, Carnegie Library, Post Office (originally built to be the Federal Customs House), views of Port Townsend Bay, Haller Fountain, downtown shopping district. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 138 Exhibit 75: 2003 Quimper Peninsula Bicycle Map Exhibit 76: Coordinated Trail Action Items Project Task Partners Cost 1 City to lead or partner in the update of creating user friendly walking and biking maps. TBD TBD 2 Coordinate with the Cicemehan trail partners to discuss revising the routes to align with proposed Connected Routes, where feasible. Cicemehan trail $0 3 Coordiante and participate in the planning of the Olympic Discovery Trail. Revise the Signature Map Alignment, as needed. Olympic Discovery Trail TBD City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 139 09 Partnerships & Coordination Partnership is a central goal of Port Townsend’s Active Transportation Plan, recognizing that successful implementation requires collaboration across multiple agencies, organizations, and community groups. By fostering synergy between city departments, regional partners, schools, transit providers, advocacy groups, and private stakeholders, the city can maximize resources, streamline project delivery, and ensure that improvements serve the broadest possible range of users. Coordinated planning helps align local, county, and state initiatives, ensuring that active transportation projects are consistent with regional mobility goals, safety standards, and accessibility requirements. Maintaining strong partnerships and clear lines of communication supports ongoing maintenance, program implementation, and long-term monitoring, ultimately creating a connected, safe, and equitable transportation network for all residents and visitors. DASH The DASH Project (Disability Awareness Starts Here) is a non-profit organization in Jefferson County advocating for accessible environments. DASH has been working to improve access to public places and programs in Jefferson County since 1999, resulting in access improvements to streets, sidewalks, trails, paths, public spaces, and commercial spaces. DASH has worked with local members and staff of the City of Port Townsend, and has developed resources and guidance for accessibility improvements. Among other resources, DASH has developed a Map of Accessible Port Townsend (for those who use mobility aids), accessible trail guides, accessible restaurant guides, accessible entertainment venue guides, and others. The map City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 140 provided in the following exhibit will be updated following this plan to reflect ADA priority routes and recent construction project upgrades to the sidewalk system. Exhibit 77: Map of Accessible Port Townsend (July 2016) Source: “Accessible Port Townsend Map – Downtown/Uptown: A Guide for Wheelchair Users and Those Who Use Mobility Aids.” DASH (Disability Awareness Starts Here). Updated July 2016. Retrieved from https://www.dashproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/DASH-Map-sm.pdf. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 141 Tribe Involvement in čičməhán Trail The čičməhán Trail was developed by the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, and its intent is to educate the public on the relationship between the S’Klallam people (“qatáy”) and the European settlers who arrived in Port Townsend in the mid-19th century, intent on making it a key port of trade in the Northwest. The continued Partnership with the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe is an important part of Port Townsend’s active transportation network. The City has been working with the Native Connections group to coordinate location of the trail and connected routes. Creative District The Creative District joins Downtown, Uptown, and Fort Worden to honor and support the arts. Routes between these areas of town were created and will need to be updated to correspond with the connected routes map. Peninsula Trails Coalition The PTC is a very active group focused on the promoting and implementing the development of the Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) and the more recent P2P (Pacific to Puget Sound) trail. The recent success with procurement of a RAISE grant is helping agencies including Port Townsend plan for and build segments of the ODT. Within the City Limits, funding for planning for trail extensions from the current Larry Scott Trailhead located in the Port of Port Townsend Boat Haven boatyard to the Fort, the Park and Rida, and to the Ferry Terminal are part of the RAISE grant. PT Main Street The City’s Downtown and Uptown are key hubs of activity for residents and visitors. The City works with PT Main Street on topics such as infrastructure for active transportation, parking, landscaping and place making. Local 2020 Local 2020 is an advocacy organization supporting sustainable practices in the region. In particular, Local 2020 Transportation-Lab and Climate Action focus areas support Active Transportation to improve the environment. Local 2020 has held transportation focus events as well has been active in the promotion of electric vehicle conversion and reduction of vehicle miles traveled. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 142 Jefferson Land Trust The Jefferson Land Trust continues to be and advocate for preservation of open space such as in Cappy’s Trails and the Quimper Wildlife Corridor as well as in the surrounding unincorporated area of the Quimper Peninsula. The Land trust supports densification in the City where services are available including active transportation. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 143 10 Funding Strategies Funding strategies are critical to implementing the Active Transportation Plan and sustaining improvements over time. A combination of local, regional, state, and federal funding sources can support projects ranging from small tactical urbanism interventions to major capital investments. Leveraging grants, public-private partnerships, and dedicated city funds allows Port Townsend to implement both short-term and long-term improvements while maximizing community benefits and minimizing costs. In addition to traditional funding mechanisms, creative approaches such as impact fees, fee-in- lieu programs, and point-of-sale sidewalk improvement programs can provide ongoing revenue for active transportation infrastructure. Prioritizing investments based on equity, connectivity, and safety ensures that available funds achieve the greatest benefit for residents, including underserved populations. Long-term planning and consistent budgeting enable the city to maintain existing facilities, expand the network, and respond flexibly to emerging needs and opportunities. Fee in Lieu Program The city has limited funds generated by the sidewalk fee in lieu program. Where sidewalk is required, but would not provide significant value, the city allows the applicant to pay an equivalent fee. This will then fund infill sidewalk on priority routes, or similar active transportation projects. Transportation Benefit District The Port Townsend Transportation Benefit District (TBD) was created for the sole purpose of funding repair, preservation, and improvement of streets in city limits. Port Townsend City Council formed the TBD on July 24, 2023, providing oversight to the fund. City Council chose to put a 0.3% sales tax increase on the ballot to ensure all people who visit and shop in the city contribute to paying for streets. It passed with 77% of the vote. This local sales tax went into effect April 1, 2024 and will expire in ten years unless terminated by Council. The revenue from the TBD sales tax is estimated to total $1.2 million each year. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 144 How is the TBD fund being used? Funds generated are used primarily for street repair and preservation given the current poor condition of most streets. Additionally, street improvements for walking, bicycling, and ADA upgrades are included. 40 - 60% Pavement repair, rehabilitation, and preservation of the City's 80+ mile street system. Note that any privately maintained streets are not eligible for funding. 20 - 40% Grant match for projects in the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan. This investment will leverage $7 million in state and federal grants for streets over the next 2 - 3 years. 10 - 20% Sidewalks, ADA upgrades, and neighborhood traffic calming. At $1 million per year, 10%-20% equates to $100k-$200k that will go toward Sidewalks, ADA upgrades, and neighborhood traffic calming. Furthermore, the funds used to leverage grants almost always are focused on Active Transportation improvements. Therefore, the total transportation investments including grants are on the order of $1-2 million per year for Active Transportation depending on grant procurement success. Washington State Transportation Grants Safe Routes to School (SRTS) - The purpose of the Safe Routes to Schools Program (SRTS) is to improve safety and mobility for children by enabling and encouraging them to walk and bicycle to school. Funding from this program is for projects within two-miles of primary, middle and high schools (K-12).2 Port Townsend recent awards: o 2025 – Port Townsend's Healthy Neighborhoods and Safe Routes to School Outreach, Study and Implementation Plan Sandy Williams Connecting Communities Program- Improves active transportation connectivity for people walking, biking and rolling along and across current and legacy highways. The program focuses on communities with high equity needs, which are those communities most affected by barriers to opportunity and environmental health disparities.3 Port Townsend recent awards: o 2025 – HOPE-20 - SR-20 from Sheridan to Haines shoulder improvements 2 Source: Safe Routes to School Program | WSDOT. 3 Source: Sandy Williams Connecting Communities Program | WSDOT. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 145 Transportation Alternatives - Transportation Alternatives (TA) projects and activities encompass smaller-scale transportation projects such as pedestrians and bicycle facilities, historic preservation, safe routes to school and other transportation-related activities.4 Port Townsend recent awards: o Multimodal Cohesive Streets Plan (2026) Pedestrian and Bicycle Program - The Pedestrian and Bicycle program objective is to improve the transportation system to enhance safety and mobility for people who choose to walk or bike. 5 Port Townsend recent awards: o Discovery Road (2024) o SR 20 (Bishop Canyon) (2027) Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) – This program focuses on safety improvements to support active transportation in urban environments. Port Townsend recent awards: o Discovery and Sheridan Intersection (2026) o 19th Street – Landes to San Juan Sidewalk and street crossings (2027) Transportation Improvement Board – Urban Arterial Program – This program focuses on rebuilding failed pavement and brining urban streets up to standards with multimodal facilities while addressing safety. These grants are the largest grants and fund projects such as: 6 Port Townsend recent awards: o Discovery Road (2024) o Lawrence Street (2026) o F Street (2002) Transportation Improvement Board – Sidewalk Program – This program focuses filling in sidewalk to complete pedestrian routes: 7 Port Townsend recent awards: o Washington and Walker (2023) o Discovery Road between San Juan and 19th. o Jefferson Street 4 Source: Transportation Alternatives | WSDOT. 5 Source: Pedestrian & Bicycle Program | WSDOT. 6 Source: Pedestrian & Bicycle Program | WSDOT. 7 Source: Pedestrian & Bicycle Program | WSDOT. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 146 Transportation Improvement Board – Complete Streets Program – This program focuses providing facilities for all modes of transportation and in particular, creating an urban environment welcoming to active transportation users: 8 Port Townsend recent awards: o Lawrence Street (2024) o Washinton Street bulb outs (2020) Transportation Improvement Board – Arterial Preservation Program – This program focuses on preserving existing streets in relatively good condition. This program requires sidewalk upgrades for ADA accessibility: 9 Port Townsend recent awards: o Tyler Street (2025) o Walker Street Federal Transportation Grants RAISE - The purpose of the RAISE grant is to plan for and build trail infrastructure on the North Olympic Peninsula. This one time $16 million funding is split among many agencies across the peninsula. Safe Streets for All (SS4A) – This program is designed to create safety action plans and active transportation improvements for safety. The City and County have a joint award for a safety action plan development. Surface Transportation Block Grants (STBG) – This program provides funding routed through the State to local agencies to make improvements to Federally classified arterial streets. The County manages these funds and the City recently funded Discovery Road as well as Kearney Street paving and sidewalk fronting the Co-op and Penny Saver. 8 Source: Pedestrian & Bicycle Program | WSDOT. 9 Source: Pedestrian & Bicycle Program | WSDOT. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 147 11 Summary & Conclusions The Port Townsend Active Transportation Plan provides a comprehensive roadmap for creating a safe, connected, and equitable transportation network that serves people of all ages and abilities. By integrating goals, policies, and actionable strategies across walking, biking, and multi-use pathways, the plan establishes a framework for coordinated investments and long- term system development. It emphasizes the importance of connected routes with a focus on priority routes for ADA connections and shared streets and improved trails for areas lacking sidewalk infrastructure. Furthermore, the plan strongly encourages the development of culture that respects and supports active transportation to further goals of transportation mode shift from the automobile to walking, biking, and rolling. The substance of the plan is the implementation of four key strategies in the most affordable way utilizing existing infrastructure while creating system to focus on connectivity. Ultimately, the plan represents a commitment to active transportation as a core component of Port Townsend’s livability, health, and sustainability. By following the strategies outlined in this document, the city can enhance mobility, strengthen community connections, and create streets and pathways that encourage walking, biking, and active engagement with public spaces. This plan lays the foundation for a resilient, people-centered transportation system that will benefit residents and visitors for years to come. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 148 Appendices Appendix A: Public Outreach Results ....................................................................... 149 Appendix B: Traffic Calming Examples .................................................................... 221 Appendix C: Speed Safety Camera Guide ................................................................. 227 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 149 Appendix A: Public Outreach Results Survey Results The online Active Transportation Survey saw a total of 1,551 visitors, 509 submitted surveys, and 2,322 total answers. 90 474 If there was a pedestrian ferry to Seattle, would you take it rather than driving? No Yes Submitted respondents: 436 Total respondents: 569 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 150 184 103 98 86 161 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 Low-speed electric vehicles Trucks Cars Scooters Bikes Nu m b e r o f R e s p o n d e n t s Options Would you participate in rental program for the following? Check all that apply. Submitted respondents: 252 Total respondents: 331 35 188 290 55 0 100 200 300 400 Do nothing, we don’t need active transportation improvements Many low cost improvements (traffic calming, designating existing local streets as bike routes, and improved crossings at busy streets) Moderate amounts of middle cost items (sidewalks and bike lanes) Limited amounts of high-cost infrastructure (large road projects) Number of Respondents With limited funds, which type of transportation infrastructure do you prefer? Submitted respondents: 435 Total respondents: 568 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 151 78.50% 11.80% 2.60% 5.60% 11.00% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% N/A - I don't have children in or commuting to school Individually drive my kid(s) Carpool Take the school bus Walk, bike, or roll Percent of Respondents Op t i o n s How do your kids get to and from school most days? Check all that apply. Submitted respondents: 438 Total respondents: 610 75 429 389 230 372 129 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 N/A – I’m not able to or comfortable walking, rolling, or running Path separated from a road Calm neigbhorhood street Edge lane roads - single lane with dashed stripes Bike lane Shared lane or shoulder on busy Number of Respondents Op t i o n s Where do you feel comfortable walking, rolling, or running? Check all that apply. Submitted respondents: 384 Total respondents: 540 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 152 Current Active Transportation Routes vs. Future/Desired Active Transportation Routes Current Active Transportation Routes Future/Desired Active Transportation City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 153 Locations of Desired Amenities & Noted Problem Areas Desired Bike Parking Desired Bike Shares Desired Bus Stops Desired Sidewalk Ramps City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 154 Desired Car Share Locations Aggregate Problem Areas City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 155 Respondents would be encouraged to bike more with 1.) more bike lanes, 2.) more paved paths, 3.) a more connected route, and 4.) more trails. 95 149 141 85 103 265 84 86 36 181 201 269 337 253 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 N/A - I don't plan to bike Feeling safe Adequate bike racks Social fun rides or events that encourage active transportation Education/maps on where to go A more connected route (transit, bike, or trail) More/closer destinations (parks, commercial, services) Street lighting Small/pocket parks or benches Less traffic speed and/or traffic volume Improved crossings at busy streets More paved paths More bike lines More trails Number of Respondents Op t i o n s Which would help you bike more? Check all that apply. Submitted respondents: 404 Total respondents: 539 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 156 Respondents would want to walk/roll more with 1.) more trails, 2.) a more connected route, 3.) improved crossings at busy streets, and 4.) new/better sidewalks and ADA ramps. 20 170 127 348 129 135 122 100 203 273 355 228 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 I don't plan on walking or rolling Feeling safe Education/maps on where to go A more connected route (transit, bike, or trail) More/closer destinations (parks, commercial, services) Street lighting More trees Small/pocket parks or benches Less traffic speed and/or traffic volume Improved crossings at busy streets More trails New/better sidewalk and ADA ramps Number of Respondents Op t i o n s Which would help you walk or roll more? Check all that apply. Submitted respondents: 433 Total respondents: 578 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 157 Demographic Survey City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 158 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 159 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 160 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 161 January 2025 Open House City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 162 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 163 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 164 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 165 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 166 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 167 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 168 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 169 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 170 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 171 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 172 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 173 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 174 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 175 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 176 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 177 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 178 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 179 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 180 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 181 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 182 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 183 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 184 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 185 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 186 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 187 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 188 March 2025 Open House City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 189 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 190 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 191 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 192 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 193 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 194 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 195 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 196 September 2025 Open House City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 197 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 198 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 199 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 200 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 201 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 202 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 203 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 204 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 205 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 206 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 207 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 208 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 209 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 210 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 211 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 212 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 213 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 214 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 215 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 216 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 217 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 218 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 219 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 220 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 221 Appendix B: Traffic Calming Examples Speed Humps Speed humps are raised areas of pavement typically placed across the width of a road to reduce vehicle speeds. Unlike speed bumps, which are more abrupt and often found in parking lots, speed humps have a gentler slope and are designed for use on local streets or residential areas. They effectively calm traffic by forcing drivers to slow down to maintain control and comfort, thereby increasing safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Their spacing and height are engineered to reduce speed without significantly hindering emergency vehicle access. Speed humps are a cost-effective and widely used tool in traffic calming strategies. An Example of a Speed Hump located on Discovery Road Source: City of Port Townsend City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 222 Traffic Islands Traffic islands are raised or painted areas within a roadway that separate lanes of traffic or provide a refuge for pedestrians crossing a street. They help organize traffic flow, reduce vehicle speeds, and improve safety by channelizing vehicles into proper lanes and providing physical separation between opposing directions of traffic. Traffic islands can also be landscaped to enhance the visual appeal of a roadway and increase driver awareness. In pedestrian-heavy areas, refuge islands offer a safe midway point, allowing pedestrians to cross wide roads in stages. An Example of Traffic Island on F Street Source: Google Maps City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 223 Street Plantings Street plantings are landscaped features placed along sidewalks or at curb extensions to provide greenery in urban environments. Besides their aesthetic benefits, street plantings serve as traffic calming devices by narrowing the perceived width of the roadway, which encourages drivers to reduce speeds. They also offer protection for pedestrians by acting as a buffer between the sidewalk and moving vehicles. In addition, plantings contribute to stormwater management by absorbing runoff, improving air quality, and enhancing the overall livability of streetscapes. An Example of Street Planting on Discovery Road Source: City of Port Townsend City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 224 Edge Lane Roads Edge lane roads refer to roadways designed with lanes adjacent to the curb or shoulder that accommodate different types of traffic, such as bicycles, parked cars, or turning vehicles. These lanes help organize traffic and increase safety by separating slower-moving or stationary vehicles from through traffic. Properly designed edge lanes provide space for cyclists, reduce conflicts with parked cars, and facilitate smoother turns and merges. They also enhance pedestrian safety by creating a buffer zone between sidewalks and travel lanes. An Example of an Edge Lane Road on Kuhn Street Source: City of Port Townsend Curb Extensions Curb extensions, also known as bulb-outs are roadway design features that extend the sidewalk or curb line into the parking lane or travel lane at intersections or mid-block crossings. By narrowing the roadway, curb extensions reduce crossing distances for pedestrians, increase their visibility to drivers, and help slow down turning vehicles. They also provide additional space for street furniture, landscaping, and signage, enhancing the pedestrian environment. Curb extensions are an effective tool in traffic calming and pedestrian safety improvement strategies. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 225 Pedestrian Refuges Pedestrian refuges are designated safe zones or islands located in the middle of a roadway that allow pedestrians to pause while crossing wide or multi-lane streets. These refuges improve pedestrian safety by providing a protected space away from vehicular traffic, reducing the risk of collisions. They enable pedestrians to cross in stages, which is especially beneficial for slower walkers such as the elderly or people with disabilities. Pedestrian refuges also help manage vehicle speeds and improve the overall walkability of urban areas. An Example of a Curb Extension Located on Lawrence Street Source: City of Port Townsend An Example of a Pedestrian Refuge Located on Discovery Road Source: Google Maps City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 226 Chicanes A chicane is a traffic-calming design feature that involves a series of alternating curves or lane shifts in an otherwise straight roadway. The purpose of a chicane is to slow down vehicle speeds by forcing drivers to steer left and right, rather than continue in a straight line. There are two main types of chicanes: One-lane chicane: Narrows the road to a single lane with alternating curb extensions or barriers, requiring drivers to yield and take turns. Two-lane chicane: Uses staggered curb extensions or landscaping on both sides of a two- way street, causing vehicles in each direction to weave slightly around obstacles. Chicanes are often used in residential neighborhoods or areas where pedestrian safety and speed reduction are priorities. They can be made with curbs, landscaping, bollards, or even paint and planters in tactical urbanism contexts. An Example of a One-Lane Chicane Located in in B.C., Canada Source: Richard Drdul (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Flickr. An Example of a Two-Lane Chicane Located in Berkeley, CA Source: Payton Chung (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr. City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 227 Appendix C: Speed Safety Camera Guide City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 228 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 229 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 230 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 231 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 232 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 233 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 234 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 235 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 236 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 237 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 238 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 239 City of Port Townsend 2025 Active Transportation Plan | Page 240