GUEST EDITORIAL Why Burien Should Approve The Transportation Benefit District

In November, Burien residents will have the opportunity to vote on a Transportation Benefit District, which includes a proposed $25 vehicle license fee to fund bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure improvements. Joe Fitzgibbon, a Planning Commissioner, argues that this investment is crucial for enhancing safety for families and children walking and biking in the city. The community has played a vital role in shaping the Bike and Pedestrian Master Plans, with over 400 residents participating in the process. Current construction cost trends, due to decreased residential demand, make this an opportune time to implement these projects, particularly improvements on S and SW 136th St and 8th Ave S. Advocates assert that enhanced infrastructure not only boosts property values but also fosters healthier lifestyles and reduces emissions.

The investment amounts to less than seven cents a day per vehicle, a cost supporters deem reasonable for increased safety. Community organizations, including the American Heart Association, endorse the Sidewalks and Bikes Levy, underscoring its importance. The outcome of this vote could significantly impact the quality of life in Burien.