Bothell Council Addresses Transportation Challenges and Commute Trip Reduction Initiatives

On March 19, 2025, the Bothell City Council convened to discuss pressing transportation issues, notably the effects of COVID-19 on commuting behaviors. Councilor Verzones expressed concerns about rising traffic levels, seeking clarity on whether this was due to increased cars or their destinations. City staff confirmed that traffic has returned to pre-pandemic levels, prompting discussions about the implications for transportation planning. The council then reviewed the updated Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) plan, designed to decrease reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. City Manager Kyle Stannert highlighted ongoing collaborations with Community Transit, Sound Transit, and King County Metro to improve public transportation access.

The draft CTR plan, developed with community input, sets a target of 67% for reducing solo driving, although penalties for not achieving this target will not be imposed. The council is set to hold a public hearing on the draft CTR plan on April 1, 2025, as part of its commitment to fostering a multimodal transportation system that includes carpooling and public transit. The meeting concluded with no votes, but a clear intention to adapt transportation infrastructure to better meet community needs.