Published March 9 2016
Also, Vision Zero in Comp Plan and hearing on light rail maintenance facility
Council members on Monday gave final approval for changes to Bellevue's parking code. The topic was previously considered during the council's Feb. 22 meeting. The new regulations will take effect on May 1.
Among other changes, the amended code: updates penalties so fines will be a consistent $40 for all infractions; streamlines the process so future fines will be adjusted automatically for inflation every two years; and adds new regulations, including one barring parking within 10 feet of mailboxes during postal delivery hours.
More information and a copy of the revised parking ordinance are available online.
Vision Zero headed for Comprehensive Plan
Also on Monday the council voted to start work on amending the city's Comprehensive Plan to incorporate Vision Zero, an approach to traffic safety the council adopted in December. Members of the Transportation Commission were on hand to recommend the Comprehensive Plan changes.
The ultimate goal of Vision Zero is to end traffic deaths and serious injuries in Bellevue by 2030, and to create a transportation system that is safe for all users. The approach has been endorsed by other cities and agencies nationwide, including the state Department of Transportation and King County.
Components of Vision Zero include education, encouragement, enforcement, engineering, equity and evaluation. More information, including a copy of the Transportation Commission's recommendations, is available online.
Hearing related to light rail maintenance facility
Finally, the council held a public hearing on a Land Use Code amendment related to Sound Transit's proposed Operations and Maintenance Satellite Facility (OMSF). The location for the future East Link light rail maintenance operation is in the city's BelRed area.
The purpose of the code change is to streamline the permit process for the OMSF, providing certainty and predictability for Bellevue and Sound Transit. It would also ensure the design, development, construction and operation of the facility is consistent with BelRed area planning policies.