New 7th Ave sidewalk fills a gap

Puyallup plans to construct a new sidewalk on 7th Ave SW, filling a critical gap in pedestrian infrastructure. The project is expected to cost around $650,000, primarily funded by a State of Washington Transportation Improvement Board grant of $340,000. City Senior Project Manager Bryan Schermerhorn stated that the project is part of the city's Active Transportation Plan, which promotes multimodal travel and aims to ensure sidewalks on both sides of roadways. The existing infrastructure allows for straightforward construction, as no significant improvements are needed. Currently, Puyallup has nearly 100 miles of sidewalk gaps that need addressing, highlighting the urgency of enhancing pedestrian safety.

The Sidewalk Link Program aims to improve walkability and repair existing sidewalks, benefiting the community. Completing the sidewalk on 7th Ave aligns with the city's "Complete Streets" mentality, focusing on accessibility for all travel modes. Ultimately, city officials aim to create a safer and more connected urban environment for residents.