Alderwood mall lot, already a squeeze, may soon see more foot traffic

The Alderwood Mall in Lynnwood, Washington, is facing growing safety concerns as its parking lot becomes a chaotic environment for pedestrians amidst heavy vehicle traffic. The article portrays the hectic scene on weekends, where cars back out quickly and drivers compete for parking spaces, leading to close calls for pedestrians. Although there have been no serious pedestrian accidents reported in the past three years, the high traffic volume has resulted in several car collisions at nearby intersections, highlighting safety vulnerabilities. The limited number of crosswalks and inconsistent sidewalks complicate pedestrian access, especially during busy shopping periods like the holiday season. With upcoming public transit expansions expected to draw even more foot traffic to the mall, the need for improved safety protocols is critical.

The article calls for proactive measures from mall management and local authorities to protect pedestrians, questioning the sufficiency of current safety measures and urging enhancements to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors. As Alderwood Mall remains the largest shopping destination in Snohomish County, addressing these safety issues is essential for community well-being.