Thinking about commuting by bicycle? Second ‘Survive #Realign99 Ride’ on Sunday

If you missed last weekend’s first chance to test bicycling between here and downtown with West Seattle Bike Connections and Cascade Bicycle Club – they’re offering another chance this Sunday (January 13th). Meet at Junction Starbucks at California/Alaska by 9:15 am; the ride starts at 9:30. Free, but advance registration is requested – do that, and get more info, here.

Joe Z January 11, 2019 (1:01 pm)

I’m not a regular winter bike commuter but I tested it out today to see how it goes. The most confusing part is where the bike trail ends at Alaskan Way & King St, there are no signs or markings beyond that point and you have to ride in traffic. It’s really unfortunate since the rest of the bike commute is pleasant but that part really ruins it for me. It’s quite dangerous especially after dark.

KM January 11, 2019 (3:54 pm)

Joe, this intersection has also been noted by other cyclists in the community as being problematic. I think WSBC has some ideas on how to improve and has sent over to the city, but it’s good to voice your concerns directly as well . I believe this intersection requires some coordination with WSDOT in order to improve (?) to changes might take some time, unfortunately.
Doug January 12, 2019 (4:13 pm)

Hi Joe, I agree that the King/Alaskan intersection and nearby bike infrastructure is very poorly thought out. It’s these little gaps in the bike network that can really put people off to riding. But it’s not as bad as it seems once you figure out it. When the Elliott Bay Trail ends at King St, you can cross Alaskan Way and stay on King St for two blocks, then head north on Occidental to Yesler. There’s a short stub of protected bike lane on Yesler that connects to the 2nd Ave PBL, which is very nice. Even on the portions of King and Occidental where you’re riding on the street, traffic tends to be light and slow since neither road goes through. The section through Occidental Square is completely closed to cars, and it’s beautiful. Just be sure to stay slow and yield to pedestrians!

Here’s a map: https://goo.gl/maps/66u2PVHAYxL2Join us on the WSBC ride tomorrow. We’ll cover this exact route on the return trip.

NW January 11, 2019 (1:58 pm)

Please use your voice or a bell 🔔 when passing cyclist pedestrians whomever. ON YOUR RIGHT!

Darryll January 11, 2019 (1:59 pm)

If any ebike riders are interested in a practice commute this weekend, please get my contact details from the editors and send me an email. I’d love to share experiences and swap ideas specific to ebike challenges.

KR January 11, 2019 (3:33 pm)

I rode from WS through downtown and back yesterday for the first time in a long while and noticed a massive increase in garbage along the trail from Atlantic to King st. Almost got peed on by someone as I was riding that section South bound. Be alert through that area. Also found the King St crossing quite a bit more confusing than before.