The SDEIS analysis uses traffic counts predating the Sunset Interchange for its models.

Its first analysis is for estimated traffic in 2005 based on old information and then skips to 2030.  We have no way of seeing the possible improvements between those 2 dates.

Did the modeling include traffic levels on I-90?  Other City studies have found that I-90 begins to have large impacts on the local street system due to high volumes and required metering.

There are no High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes proposed on the bypass.

 

I-90 will back up traffic on the bypass when it is full, forcing traffic back on city streets..

Front St. North of I-90 is shown to have more congestion WITH the bypass.

The SDEIS (P. 224) says that Issaquah Hobart Rd will be failing during both morning and evening rush hours in 2005 with or without the bypass creating a back up into town, & it will fail worse in 2030.  We're creating a new place for cars to "park"—off of Front onto SE Bypass AND city streets.

There is no additional bus service planned on this corridor if this road is built.

Possible True Cost?????????

SDEIS Total Cost: $27.4M to $34.9M

Unknown funding:

-Issaquah residents' pocketbooks????

Potential funding: $16.5 Million

 -$7M from ISTEA but that was rescinded as we had not obligated the money.  This money can be requested again.

- $21M originally available from the Regional Transportation Investment District (RTID) for the Bypass and finally reduced that amount to $9.5M before they delayed an RTID vote for another year.

Money In hand: $2.3 Million

- $1M grant from Issaquah Highlands.

- $400,000 loan, to be repaid, from Issaquah Highlands.

-$900,000 federal funds available

· What happens if City Council votes to build the Bypass and there is no money available?

· What happens if the road goes over budget during construction?

· An increase in stormwater rates (again!) for maintaining and operating this complex stormwater system will have to be added to Issaquah's Budget..

· The SDEIS indicates that businesses in Olde Town will have increased revenues because of reduced traffic, but we will have to purchase & install signs on the Bypass to redirect traffic back to "rediscover" the businesses.

· It will be difficult to get more money for the SE Bypass without a strong transit element.

.issaqahaction.org

Bypass Special 204