About 30 people upset by the city of Lynnwood’s decision to remove parking from their streets packed into Lynnwood City Council chambers Monday, March 23.
Several of them told the council how the loss of parking to make way for new bike lanes has affected their lives.
The city plans to add bicycle lanes to sections of 188th Street Soutwest, 168th Street Southwest and 208th Street Southwest beginning in April. But many residents have been critical of the plan and their dismay has reached a crescendo recently as residents along 208th Street Southwest realize that the changes are imminent.
“I hope you understand, we are not against bicyclists,” said Muriel Fagan, a resident of 188th Street Southest. “It’s the removal of parking that we don’t like.”
Councilman Ted Hikel said he now regrets his 2008 vote in favor of adding the bike lanes. The council voted 6-0 to add the bike lanes.
“There were unexpected impacts that I didn’t take into account,” he said, adding that he’s spoken to affected residents and now better understands “the depth” of the issue.
“This is something I did not expect was going to be a problem,” he said.
Bicycle riders also spoke out.
Rennie Grossman of Lynnwood said she likes the bike lane plan.
“I have to say bike lanes really make riding easier,” she said. “I also think it’s important that Lynnwood encourage people to get on bikes.”
Kristin Kinnamon, president of the Bicycle Alliance of Washington, said Hikel shouldn’t have to apologize for his vote.
“One third of the population does not drive,” she said. “It’s these people who’d benefit.”
She said bike lanes “are very important in encouraging people to use a different way to get around.”
Brandon Holly, who is disabled, said he’s unable to visit family because there’s no place for him to park.
“What it’s going to do is stop me from visiting someone who’s been like a dad to me,” he said.
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