Mercer Island to host transportation and mobility open house
The city of Mercer Island will hold a transportation and mobility open house at City Hall to discuss next steps in the plans for traffic and safety improvement measures related to light rail construction at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 29.
These measures will be funded by a portion of the $10.1 million mitigation settlement with Sound Transit intended to partially compensate for the impacts of light rail construction.
City staff and traffic consultants will discuss recent traffic count data, reflecting conditions following the June 3 closure of the Interstate 90 center roadway and the restriction of the Island Crest Way westbound tunnel on-ramp to HOVs only.
In June, the city publicized an online survey, asking Seattle-bound commuters to report their driving experiences and observations from the first week of the closure; 300 respondents provided valuable feedback, and many asked for a follow-up survey and meeting this fall when schools are in session and rainy, dark weather returns. A second survey will be launched later this year.
Also in June, the city held its first mobility meeting, focusing primarily on the initial impacts and traffic delays observed by Island commuters. At this November open house, based on data gathered so far, the city will discuss problem areas and potential solutions that could enhance safety, shorten travel times through Town Center, improve bicycle and pedestrian access to transit, and offer additional first/last mile transit options. Attendees will be invited to share their observations and comment on mobility solutions.
Holiday tree lighting set for Dec. 1
Gather with your family, friends and neighbors for an evening of free holiday merriment in Town Center on Dec. 1.
The community tree lighting ceremony and caroling occur from 6:30-7 p.m. at Mercerdale Park, and immediately afterward, from 7-8:30 p.m., the North Fire Station (3030 78th Ave. SE) hosts its annual Firehouse Munch, with arts and crafts, Santa photos, treats and musical entertainment. Please bring an unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots drive to help a child in need have a better holiday season.
Call Kai Fulginiti at 206-275-7864 with questions.
Seasonal needs at city’s Food Pantry
The Mercer Island Food Pantry serves Island residents facing food insecurity and depends on the community for donations.
Current needs include pasta, boxed cereal, tuna, canned fruit and stuffing mixes. Donations can be dropped off at the Mercer Island Thrift Shop, Banner Bankmor at the Youth and Family Services Office in Luther Burbank Park.
The Food Pantry serves only qualified Island residents who are in need, and use has increased 300 percent since 2008. To host a food drive collection or for more information, contact Kim Richards at kim.richards@mercergov.org or call 206-275-7754.
Celebrate Grausz’s service
After 18 years on the Mercer Island City Council, Dan Grausz decided not to run for re-election and will retire in 2018.
The city will honor his many years of service from 6-7 p.m on Dec. 5. The public is invited to attend.
See www.mercergov.org/CouncilMeetings for more.
