Bike lane markers could be removed

COLLEGE PLACE – The College Place City Council will hold its regular meeting tonight at 7 p.m. The council will consider a motion to remove the vertical tubular markers from the cycle track on Southwest Fourth Street and Southwest Academy Way.

Originally these markers were installed as part of the cycle track because the city thought they were required by the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board, which funded the cycle track. The markers caused significant maintenance issues as they are very difficult to clean between and around. According to Public Works Director Robert McAndrews, the city street sweeper does not fit between the markers and the curb so the bicycle track cannot be swept or kept clean. By removing them, city crews will be able to keep the cycle track clean and prevent debris from entering the city’s storm system.

The upcoming phase of the bicycle lane project will not include the tubular markers and will create a more complete and seamless appearance for the cycle track. The state has confirmed the tubular markers are not required and has given the city permission to remove them.

The council is also expected to approve the $120,000 purchase of a pickup for the fire captain and a SUV for the fire marshal. Existing vehicles, a 2006 Ford Expedition and a 2006 Chevrolet 1500 pickup, will become surplus. The funds to purchase the two new vehicles for the fire department will be used from the previous appropriation for the city hall generator project that will not be completed this year. The generator is being addressed separately as part of the council chambers/sally port architecture plan project, so it is on hold.

MYCB photo by Dan Thesman

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Elkhorn Media Group

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