4th Avenue and Plum Street Pedestrian and Bike Improvements

Big Changes Coming to 4th Avenue for Safer, More Accessible Streets

The intersection of 4th Avenue and Plum Street in Olympia is set for a major transformation aimed at improving safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers. This area has been flagged as an intersection of concern in the city’s Street Safety Plan due to multiple pedestrian-related collisions. The upcoming improvements are designed to create a safer, more accessible environment for all road users.

What’s Happening?

The project focuses on enhancing safety, even if it means an increase in traffic congestion during peak times. The planned upgrades include:

🚲 Separated Bike Lane: A dedicated bike lane separated from vehicle traffic by on-street parking stalls and a painted buffer.
🚦 Accessible Pedestrian Signals: Upgraded signals that prohibit right turns on red and provide improved accessibility.
🚧 Curb Bulb-Outs: Extensions that reduce the crossing distance for pedestrians and enhance visibility.
🛣️ Sidewalk Repairs: Fixing and replacing damaged sidewalks for improved pedestrian safety.
❌ Right Turn Lane Removal: Eliminating the dedicated right turn lane to make room for bike lanes and safety features.
♿ Curb Ramps: Installing ramps that meet current accessibility standards.

Project Benefits

These changes are designed to prioritize safety and accessibility for all users of the intersection:

✅ Increased safety for pedestrians and cyclists
✅ Reduced exposure to oncoming traffic for pedestrians crossing 4th Avenue
✅ Enhanced visibility to raise awareness of potential conflicts between drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians
✅ Improved accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair users

Construction Timeline and What to Expect

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025. During this period, residents and commuters can expect:

🚧 Lane closures with flaggers directing traffic
🔊 Noise, vibration, dust, and debris
🚪 Driveway closures near the worksite
🚛 Increased machinery and truck activity
🚷 Detours for pedestrians and cyclists due to sidewalk and crosswalk closures
🌙 Periodic night work, which may require street closures

Project Costs and Funding

The estimated project cost is $1,628,100, with funding coming from several sources:

• 💰 A $1,269,000 Pedestrian and Bicycle Program grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation

• 🌍 Support from Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA), which funds climate action projects aimed at reducing pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health

Share Your Thoughts

💬 Do you think these improvements will help make Olympia’s streets safer? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

🔗 Learn more about the project: City of Olympia Construction Updates

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