Community Watch — June 30

Working for a better South Sound

• Published June 29, 2008

• Comments (0)

What needs attention

A reader writes: "Would it be possible for the city or county to use a street sweeper to clean the bike lanes on Division Street?

"The bike lanes are often littered with broken glass, fallen tree limbs, and other debris, making it necessary for bikers to swerve into traffic and causing flat tires.

"Clean, usable bike lanes would increase the ease and joy of bike commuting. That stretch of road is especially heavily used by Evergreen (State College) students and other commuters."

Where it stands

Olympia transportation engineering designer Lee Keech said the bike lanes are scheduled to be swept every two weeks, unless there is a vacation or equipment breaks down.

But "currently there is construction along Division Street and the street sweeper avoids construction areas. As soon as the construction is completed the sweeping will resume. Please remember to be extra cautious when riding through construction zones.

"Thank you for bringing this to our attention. To report hazardous materials in the bike lane please call 360-753-8588 and the appropriate staff will respond."

Who's in charge

Lee Keech, Olympia transportation engineering eesigner, who can be reached at 360-753-8565 or lkeech@ci.olympia.wa.us.