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Northeast Sector
NE 75th St / 35th Ave NE, map
Respondent #3, Richard Fuhr, 5/19/08
Frequently I see right-turning motorists at this intersection who look to the left when they are turning right, thus failing to check whether there are pedestrians in the crosswalks. In addition, I also see motorists who are using their cell phones and therefore are not devoting their full attention to their driving. Finally, there is a fairly steep hill along 75th Street to the west of 35th Avenue, and this encourages eastbound motorists to drive faster than they otherwise might, which increases the hazard at this intersection.
Seattle Department of Transportation (SDoT) Response
Representatives from the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) recently visited the intersection in order to determine what can be done to improve conditions for pedestrians. You mention that right-turning motorists fail to check for pedestrians in the crosswalks at this location. Sightlines at this intersection were unobstructed which indicates that the problem you see has more to do with poor motorist behavior than any flaws with the design of the intersection itself.
In order to remind motorists of their obligations, SDOT will install new signs at this intersection that remind drivers to yield to pedestrians in the crosswalks. The crosswalk on the west side will also be remarked so that all four crosswalks are clearly discernable. We will also place stop bars in advance of the marked crosswalk with accompanying signs alerting motorists of where to stop when pedestrians are present.
As you are likely aware, it is now illegal to drive while holding a cellular phone in Washington. This new law aims to ensure that drivers devote their full attention to operating their vehicles in all circumstances.
We have also shared your concerns for eastbound motorists approaching the intersection with the Seattle Police Department and asked them to increase their enforcement efforts. This will remind drivers that the speed limit applies regardless of topography.
Thank you again for your submittal. The City of Seattle values your input as we strive to make our city the most walkable city in the nation. Should you have any additional concerns, please contact SDOT’s Pedestrian & Bicycle Program. They can be reached by phone at (206) 684-7583 or by email at walkandbike@seattle.gov.
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