Hearing to focus on transportation projects

An upcoming public hearing will allow Blaine residents to weigh in on how the city’s transportation projects should be prioritized.

Blaine City Council will conduct a public hearing on Monday, June 24 at 6 p.m. in the council chambers at city hall, 435 Martin Street. The hearing will focus on the city’s six-year transportation improvement program (TIP), which is updated and adopted every year pursuant to state law.

The TIP outlines current and potential transportation needs in the city, and is required for the city to receive state and federal funding for transportation projects. The TIP is essentially a list of projects which the city has prioritized. Some of the projects have already received full or partial funding, while other projects are more of a “wish list” to be pursued in the future.

Some projects being considered for the TIP include Boblett Street traffic channelization and corridor improvements; Bell Road grade separation and lane improvements; Semiahmoo bike/pedestrian path improvements; Semiahmoo Parkway reconstruction/storm repair; Peace Portal alley improvements (adjacent to RR grade); city-wide pavement preservation (annual program); and city-wide traffic and pedestrian safety (annual program).

“In terms of what we’re looking for from the public, we’re seeking input about priorities,” said Ravyn Whitewolf, Blaine’s public works director. “We’re hoping the community will support the council in setting the priorities and communicating their wishes. If there’s something not on the list that they feel is an important transportation need, we want to hear that too.”

All interested citizens are encouraged to appear and be heard or submit written comments regarding this proposal. Additional information is available from the Blaine public works department at 1200 Yew Avenue, or by telephone at 360/332-8820.