Yacht club members want a crosswalk, but county says its not so simple

Members of the Quartermaster Yacht Club (QYC) have been actively campaigning for a marked crosswalk on Vashon Highway, where they face significant safety risks while crossing. The club highlights the dangers faced by older members and children, particularly during the summer sailing camp season, when foot traffic increases. However, King County officials maintain that the proposed location does not meet their criteria for a marked crosswalk and warn against potential safety issues related to false security. A one-week study showed an average vehicle speed of 35 mph in a 25-mph zone, raising further concerns about pedestrian safety. In a bold move, anonymous individuals have painted an unauthorized crosswalk, which some QYC members claim has improved driver behavior.

Despite the club's willingness to cover the costs for a legal crosswalk, county officials insist that the issue is about compliance and not finances. The debate underscores a larger community need for safe crossing options, especially given that many activities occur year-round at the yacht club. As county officials plan to remove the unauthorized crosswalk, the community remains determined to find a viable solution.