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HomeMy WebLinkAbout6 Transportation BERK 2025_1219 with PAO track changes CLEANEDJefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–1 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 6 Transportation 6.1 PURPOSE Transportation infrastructure is extremely important to all aspects of daily life and visitor travel in Jefferson County, and includes local roads, State Highways, trails, sidewalks, bike lanes, parking lots, and transit routes. The purpose of this Transportation Element is to analyze current conditions and plan for future use for both motorized and non- motorized travel in coordination with the Washington State Department of Transportation and other regional planning partners, and related community groups. As of 2013, transportation accounts for the largest share of greenhouse gas emissions in Washington State, so planning an efficient, multimodal transportation network is critically important to our environment.1 The GMA requires a systematic approach for estimating and planning for future transportation needs based on an analysis of existing conditions and a projection of future needs. This Transportation Element meets the requirements of the GMA. It 1 Washington State Department of Ecology, 2016. Carolyn Gallaway The Transportation Element supports the Vision Statement by facilitating the maintenance and extension of transportation infrastructure available to residents, visitors, and industry in Jefferson County. Networks of non-motorized trails, bikes lanes, and paths also empower residents to make healthy choices and encourage active lifestyles. Connection to Our Vision TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–2 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 provides analysis, goals, policies, and strategies necessary to develop the transportation facilities that will serve Jefferson County in the future. The Element describes the level of service (LOS) standards desired for the county’s transportation system and estimates vehicular traffic that will be generated on county roads and state routes by the land use designations adopted in this Comprehensive Plan and by regional traffic growth. The analysis in the Element shows that no capacity- related transportation improvements are necessary on Jefferson County roads to meet levels of service for traffic. However, there are future needs for intersection improvements on state routes in the Tri- Area of the county to address future intersection level of service deficiencies and concurrency issues, as seen in Exhibit 6-8. See the Transportation Technical Appendix C for detailed information. The Element also discusses non-motorized transportation modes such as trails that support active lifestyles. Coordination and support of transit, ferry, and airport facilities is also necessary to ensure a variety of travel modes serving the community and to support the local economy. More details on the county’s transportation system are included in Appendix C. Ten of the thirty-eight projects listed in the County’s 2025-2030 6- year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) are non-motorized projects which monetarily constitute 43% of the overall TIP. Commented [EK1]: This project is old news. Interestingly it’s not even mentioned on pg. 60- 61 of the Transportation Technical Document. Perhaps this paragraph could alternatively state that, “10 of the 38 projects listed on the County’s 2025-2030 6-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) are non-motorized projects which monetarily constitute 43% of the overall TIP. Commented [PS2R1]: Good update. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–3 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 6.2 TRENDS & OPPORTUNITIES Conditions & Trends County-wide Conditions Roadway Functional Classification Roadways are categorized according to their role and use in carrying vehicles. The categorization is a hierarchy of roadways ranging from principal and minor arterials and major and minor collectors to local access roads and streets. The different categories vary in their ability to carry traffic for long distances, and in their ability to provide access to land uses. The County's road network and functional classifications are illustrated in Exhibit 6-1 and Exhibit 6-2. The county road inventory consists of 396.92 miles of Jefferson County roads, with most roadways being local rural access roads; see sidebar. There are also 38 bridges owned by Jefferson County. Road design standards are based on a roadway’s function and use as determined by the Federal Functional Classification System. There are numerous Jefferson County roads that are classified as rural local access roads that, in fact, function as collectors. They provide access to commercial and industrial developments and to dense residential neighborhoods. Generally, roads classified as rural local access are not eligible for grant funding. Since only limited local road funds are available, improvements to these roads are not typically funded and collector road standards are not applied when improvements are made. All roadways and bridges maintained by the county are evaluated and ranked for inclusion in the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), as funding becomes available. The county resurfaces approximately 15-20 miles of road annually. County Road Miles by Functional Class (Thru Lane Surface) Functional Classification Miles Major Rural Collectors 36.35 Minor Rural Collectors 102.99 Local Rural Access 250.84 Urban Collectors 6.753 Total 396.92 Source: Jefferson County, 2025. Commented [PS3]: BERK, can you update to: Major Rural Collectors: 36.35 Minor Rural Collectors: 102.99 Local Rural Access: 250.84 Urban Collectors: 6.75 Total = 396.92 Commented [JH4R3]: Done, thanks Commented [EK5]: We currently have 396.92 County Road miles (DCD has been provided a current Road Log) Commented [PS6R5]: I have a road log inventory from Capital Facilities Plan that has the following: Major Rural Collectors 36.76 Minor Rural Collectors 102.34 Local Rural Access 254.94 Urban Collectors 5.13 Total 399.17 Commented [PS7R5]: Eric to provide updated road log and bridge report for Paul to update. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–4 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Exhibit 6-1 Functional Classification Map—East Jefferson County Note: This exhibit was updated to correctly label SR 116 since the April 2025 Public Draft. Source: Transpo Group, 2025. Commented [EK8]: It seems we should have a Jefferson County West End inset or additional map? Commented [JH9R8]: Added Commented [JP10]: Please check that all map label references misidentified as SR 106 are changed to “SR 116”. Reviewers say the error is found on several maps, but I only found it on this map in the Transportation Element. Commented [jo11]: replaced with correct label for SR 116 TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–5 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Exhibit 6-2 Functional Classification Map—West Jefferson County Source: Transpo Group, 2025. State Highway Classifications State Routes (SR), roads owned and operated by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), provide for regional and interregional travel. State routes within the county are US 101 and SR 19, 20, 104, and 116. They are classified according to how they function, for example, as principal or minor arterials or collectors. US 101, and SR 20 are classified as principal arterials, SR 104 is a rural expressway, SR 19 is a rural minor arterial, and SR 116 is a major collector. SR 19 is designated as a Highway of Statewide Significance (HSS) while its functional classification remains a minor arterial. This change reflects the highway’s increasing importance within the region as an HSS route that links SR 104 to Port Townsend. Although SR 19 currently serves adjacent needs (direct access) more readily than other principal arterials, unfavorable restrictions to mobility that may develop through this corridor should be avoided. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–6 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 The Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization (PRTPO) has designated US 101, SR 19, SR 20, and SR 104 in Jefferson County as highways of statewide significance and SR 116 as a highway of regional significance, using criteria developed by the PRTPO. These criteria require that PRTPO Technical Advisory Committee members agree that such corridors serve as a primary conduit providing access and mobility. It is important to work and plan closely with WSDOT and the PRTPO to assure that the county’s needs and priorities are recognized by the State. The state routes are a critically important component of the transportation network in the county, and the State must do their part in maintaining the major corridor component of the transportation network. Road Conditions Many of the county’s roadways have minimal, gravel shoulders except in limited locations bordering suburban development, commercial areas, and various public facilities. In these more developed areas, some roadways have paved shoulders and/or sidewalks in addition to an upgraded roadway cross section. The county also has many roads with unimproved, gravel surfaces. The County’s Transportation Improvement Plan includes a program to potentially upgrade these roads by chip sealing them. Traffic Safety WSDOT compiles State Highway accident data for all 39 Counties in Washington. The average rate, on State Routes in Jefferson County, between 2019 and 2023 was 1.29 collisions per million vehicle miles of travel. Statewide, in 2023, the collision rate per million vehicle miles of travel was 1.37. Compared to statewide averages, Jefferson County currently experiences a relatively low number of collisions. Notable exceptions to the county average are along SR 104 where it joins highway 101 which has a collision rate of 3.17 crashes per million vehicle miles travelled. Few collisions involving a bicycle or a pedestrian have occurred with less than one collision per year for all roadway segments. Public Transit Jefferson Transit was created in 1981 to provide transportation services primarily to transit-dependent persons. Jefferson Transit provides service between Port Townsend and Jefferson County communities including Port Hadlock, Port Ludlow, Quilcene, and Brinnon with additional service to Sequim and Poulsbo (see Exhibit 6-3 for 2023 passenger trips and service hours). Jefferson Transit provides links to Refer to Housing Element, Goal HS-G-1 TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–7 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 adjoining transit systems including Island Transit, Kitsap Transit (from Route 7), Clallam Transit (from Route 8), Mason Transit (from Route 1) and Grays Harbor Transit (West Jefferson Transit service connecting Forks and Amanda Park along the Pacific Coast). The link with Kitsap Transit provides transit service to the Washington State Ferry terminals in Bainbridge Island and Kingston. Bicycle racks are available on all Jefferson Transit routes. To address greenhouse gas emissions, Jefferson Transit is considering a move toward electric busses, as feasible. See related information in the Climate Element Action Plan for greenhouse emissions. Exhibit 6-3 Transit Passenger Trips & Service Hours (2023) Passenger Trips Passengers/ Service Hour Fixed Route Total 209,418 11.71 Dial-A-Ride (M-Sun) 11,7110 20 Total Passenger Trips 221,128 — Source: Jefferson Transit, 2023. Air, Waterborne, & Freight Travel The Jefferson County International Airport (JCIA) is owned and operated by the Port of Port Townsend. It is situated about four miles southwest of the City of Port Townsend on about 316 acres. Its runway is about 3,000 feet in length, and over 107 aircraft are based there. The Airport is designated as a General Aviation (GA) airport by the FAA’s National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). In 2010, the total operations equaled approximately 58,030, a small percentage of which are air taxi and commuter service and the majority of which are general aviation flights. Airport use is anticipated to increase in the future. The Port’s Airport Master Plan Update (July, 2014) identifies an expansion plan to meet a 2.8% growth rate for its 107 based aircraft and to stay within FAA requirements for safety and efficient airside and landing facilities. The Port will apply for airport development grants for eligible components of its preferred airport layout plan. Ancillary uses of the facility which attracts public interest and increases use in the airport include businesses and organizations such as an aero museum, flight instruction school, airplane mechanics, airplane restoration school, restaurant, and areas designated for non-aviation-related light industrial/manufacturing development. The airport is designated and zoned as an Essential Public Facility by Jefferson County. Some airport master plan recommendations address height, noise, and other factors.2 2 (Port of Port Townsend, 2014). Top: Historic Bridge, from the Collection of the Jefferson County Historical Society Bottom: Ferry, Carolyn Gallaway TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–8 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Public ferry service is provided by the Washington State Ferry System (WSF) to Whidbey Island and via the Port Townsend/ Coupeville ferry route, and to the greater Puget Sound through Kitsap County via the Kingston/Edmonds, Bainbridge Island/Seattle, Bremerton/Seattle, and Southworth/Vashon/Fauntleroy routes. The ferry service can accommodate automobiles, pedestrians, bicyclists, kayaks, and canoes. There are three basic forms of freight travel in Jefferson County: truck, waterborne (shipping and ferry) and air. Trucking is the predominant mode of freight transportation. Most of the total westbound truck freight is carried over the Hood Canal Bridge, towards Port Townsend, or up US 101 through Shelton. The Washington State Freight and Goods Transportation System (FGTS) classifies highways, county roads, and city streets according to the average annual gross truck tonnage they carry. Truck tonnage values are derived from actual or estimated truck traffic count data that is converted into average weights by truck type. Corridors with the highest annual gross tonnage, T-1 and T-2 routes, are also identified as Strategic Freight Corridors. SR-104 and US 101 are T-2 routes that run through Jefferson County and connect to other freeways in Washington and Oregon. Non-motorized Transportation System The Transportation Element includes collaborative efforts to identify and designate planned improvements for pedestrian and bicycle facilities and corridors that address and encourage enhanced community access and promote healthy lifestyles. Given the rural nature of Jefferson County, travel occurs predominantly by motorized vehicle. However, bicycle and pedestrian circulation are important transportation modes that are used by county residents. Interjurisdictional Coordination The Transportation Element should be prepared through a process that includes not only public participation but also intergovernmental coordination. Since 1998 and with periodic updates, development of the Jefferson County Transportation Element included coordination with WSDOT, PRTPO, City of Port Townsend, Port of Port Townsend, Jefferson Transit Authority, and community planning groups. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–9 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Challenges & Opportunities Jefferson County Roads & State Highway System Jefferson County is in an unusual situation because all of the roadways identified in the Transportation Element's analysis as requiring capacity improvements are state routes and are, therefore, outside of the county’s jurisdiction. At the same time, these state routes form the bulk of the county’s arterial system and are not subject to concurrency3 under the GMA, but are integral components of the transportation system within the county. The Transportation Element projects that no concurrency issues or LOS deficiencies will occur on Jefferson County roads during the planning period. However, other issues relating to safety, road shoulders, pedestrian facilities, and intersection capacity for intersections with state highways may arise. Challenges and opportunities are also present in the changing face of transportation, including the development of electric vehicles with more range and functionality, advances in ride-sharing technology, autonomous vehicles and increasing opportunities for non-motorized travel. Jefferson County’s transportation plan considers how our rural county can plan for and provide various multi-modal transportation opportunities. 6.3 TRANSPORTATION PLAN Jefferson County's strategy for managing its transportation network is to encourage efficient multi-modal transportation through implementation of the policies of the Transportation Element which address: ▶ The county’s highways and arterials, ▶ Public transportation needs and services, ▶ Non-motorized transportation facilities, ▶ Land development standards associated with the county’s transportation network, ▶ State, regional, and local intergovernmental coordination, ▶ Promotion of transportation demand management programs, 3 Concurrency means providing improvements at time of development or within six years. Top: Rural Road, Carolyn Gallaway Bottom: Trail, Jefferson County TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–10 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 ▶ Protection of the environment and conservation of energy in transportation activities, and ▶ Development of a transportation improvement program that will identify and rank projects for funding. The technical information and policies in the Transportation Element provide the basis for recommendations for transportation improvements that are contained in the county’s six-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP, which is updated annually, is available from the Jefferson County Public Works Department. Roadway Level of Service For roadways, LOS is typically described in terms of congestion, which may be measured by average travel speed or vehicular density. Six levels of service are defined from A to F with LOS A representing the best operating conditions and LOS F the worst. Jefferson County’s adopted level of service standards are consistent with the standards established by the PRTPO and the Washington State Department of Transportation. These standards are as follows: ▶ Rural Roads (roads outside an urban boundary line) = LOS D ▶ Urban Roads (roads within an urban boundary line) = LOS D ▶ Master Planned Resort Roads (roads within an MPR boundary line) = LOS D ▶ Highways of Regional Significance (rural corridors carrying an urban level of traffic) = LOS D The capacity analysis and traffic forecasts indicate that at the planning horizon year of 2045, all Jefferson County roads are expected to operate at or above the adopted level of service (LOS) standard. However, if any proposed development were to cause the level of service to significantly fall below adopted levels, the proponents of the development would be required to mitigate the deficiency prior to development approval. A number of State Route segments will exceed their estimated capacity based on the LOS standards established by WSDOT and the PRTPO and the roadway LOS methodology adopted by the county. These LOS standards are based on roadway classification. For this analysis, the roadways within the Irondale and Port Hadlock (UGA were assumed to be classified as urban. It should be noted that they are currently classified as rural under WSDOT standards. State highways that are forecast to not meet LOS standards within the planning period include: ▶ SR 19 (Four Corners to SR 116) Commented [EK12]: Last time we met I seem to recall we agreed to make both of theses LOS D (to avoid the newer census rural/urban designation issue)? Commented [PS13R12]: Yes, thank you. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–11 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 The state highway system is owned and maintained by WSDOT and serves regional and statewide travel needs. While several roadway segments of the state highway system through Jefferson County are expected to exceed adopted state LOS standards, further widening of the corridors to accommodate future demand would require significant investments in capital dollars, impact adjoining property owners, and would be beyond the financial capacity of Jefferson County. Active Transportation Level of Service Active Transportation LOS standards were developed for this plan in alignment with the rural character of much of the county’s road network. Planned facilities are all multi-use and can be assumed to accommodate all active modes, including walking and bicycling. In the Transportation Technical Appendix C, Exhibit 1-21 depicts the current LOS along the planned active transportation network for the county. The planned network includes both on-street and off-street facilities. This plan identifies three roadway/facility types: (1) roadways with shoulders with width equal to or greater than 5ft, (2) shared roads, and (3) multi-use paths/off street trails. The long-term goal of the network is to provide off-street multi-use connections that tie into the regional trail networks of adjacent jurisdictions, while also providing a low-stress experience for users making connections between locations in Jefferson County. The Active Transportation LOS standards are presented in Exhibit 6-6. These standards emphasize the expansion and completion of wide shoulders on arterials, shared use signage on collectors, and off-street multi use pathways. The LOS designations are shown in green, orange, and red and correspond with good, acceptable, and poor LOS, respectively. Generally, a green/good LOS indicates a roadway or route that provides low stress active transportation facilities (with appropriate striping/signage) identified in the planned active transportation network, while an orange/acceptable LOS indicates facilities that may have a higher stress level due to their location on roadways that may have higher speed limits and heavier traffic. A red/poor LOS generally indicates no designated facilities are provided for active users and is considered unacceptable. Exhibit 6-4 Level of Service Definitions—Active Transportation LOS Rating Standard Good Active Transportation facilities built to provide low levels of traffic stress. Commented [JP14]: WSDOT COMMENT: “Has Jefferson County/Transpo done a traffic study on the roadways? A consistent problem is lack of analysis of a jurisdiction’s growth impacts on State Highway system. State how growth from jurisdiction is analyzed—this requirement is embedded in GMA—make sure it’s addressed. Municipal roads connecting to State Hwy system need to be at LOS D or above. If not, improvement & mitigation measures need to be done by county for roadways & intersections. What mitigation measures have been considered for failing infrastructure?” Our reply: County capital budget cannot support mitigation for all connecting roads to State Routes, etc. WSDOT: We need to see the deficiencies so that WSDOT can begin working on alternate funding plans. Commented [PS15R14]: The deficiencies are noted here (SR 19) and in the technical appendix. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–12 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 LOS Rating Standard Acceptable Active Transportation facilities exist with high levels of traffic stress. Poor No Active Transportation facilities present. Sources: Jefferson County, 2025; Transpo Group, 2025. Concurrency Concurrency occurs when public facilities or services needed to accommodate growth and development are provided at the time that development occurs. Transportation concurrency is intended to ensure that transportation facilities are available to accommodate expected traffic increases resulting from development. This will ensure orderly growth and development and avoid significant transportation impacts such as unacceptable levels of congestion. Achieving concurrency may require transportation improvements ranging from constructing physical improvements (e.g., wider travel lanes or shoulders, additional travel lanes, intersection improvements, or traffic signals) to implementing travel demand management techniques (e.g., improved transit service, rideshare programs, or staggered shift times for larger employers). Concurrency requires transportation mitigation within six years of development or returns of the fees collected by developers. The County has often had insufficient commercial development to generate funding required to construct transportation improvements, Concurrency applies to Jefferson County roads as well as intersections in the Tri-Area but does not apply to Highways of Statewide Significance. Transit Level of Service Transit service within Jefferson County is maintained and operated by Jefferson Transit Authority (JTA), which defines the transit level of service methodology. JTA currently is undertaking a Comprehensive Operational Analysis with the goal of improving services for residents and visitors to the county. As of 2024, the current state report identified four core service areas served by JTA. These areas include service within Port Townsend, connections between the Tri-Area and Port Townsend, regional connections which include rural Jefferson County communities and destinations outside the county, and the Olympic Connection which serves the west side of the county. Additionally, the 2022 Long Range Plan identified goals to guide future services. Among these objectives were increasing service to match population and employment, continuing to provide regional Commented [JH16]: Added per edit in Appendix C TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–13 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 connections in coordination with neighboring transit agencies, prioritizing multi-modal connections to allow car free recreation and tourism, and focusing service to major travel destinations. JTA is also focused on maximizing transit access by participating in the land use planning process and using micro transit or other strategies to increase access in rural areas. JTA’s 2024 Climate Action Plan roadmap goals include improving bus stop and transit center amenities, advocating for local policies and projects that improve and promote active transportation, and collaborating with regional planners to ensure that transit is the focus of any new developments and regional plans. Jefferson County defaults to JTA’s goals regarding transit service definition and will collaborate with JTA on the county’s transit system service needs and planning efforts. However, the GMA requirements state that comprehensive plans must include measurable level of service standards for local transit systems. These standards may be based on transit access, capacity, ridership or other methods based on context, but should be created in collaboration with local transit agencies. Given JTA’s focus on accessibility and multimodal connections, the county’s transit LOS focuses on bus stop amenities and active routes to bus stops within the county Right of Way. Exhibit 6-5 defines transit LOS for Jefferson County. Exhibit 6-5 Level of Service Definitions—Transit LOS Rating Standard Good Stop location marked ADA Accessible boarding area Streetlight nearby Direct connection to bikeable shoulder or sidewalk Nearest intersection has crosswalk/ped signal/RRFB Acceptable 3 or less of the above Poor 1 or less of the above. Source: Transpo Group, 2025. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–14 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Non-motorized Trail & Standards The National Recreation & Parks Association established a methodology for existing level of service for non-motorized recreational trails as a composite of all trail miles divided by the county population. Their recommended standard is 0.5 miles of recreational trails for every 1,000 population. With a 2025 population estimate of 23,779 in the unincorporated county and considering non-motorized trails owned by the County, Jefferson County exceeds the national standard with almost a 4:1 ratio. In the adopted 2002 Non-Motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan (NMRTP), partially updated in 2010, the baseline existing conditions level of service (ELOS) was 1.83 miles of County-owned trail for every 1,000 residents countywide—this ELOS was based on an inventory of 47.5 miles of composite non-motorized transportation and recreational trail facilities (including 28.3 miles of on-road bicycle routes).4 Since then, the popular Larry Scott Trail (7.35 miles), the Rick Tollefson Memorial Trail (0.35 miles), Olympic Discovery Trail-South Discovery Bay Segment (0.75 miles), Gibbs Lake Park (5 miles), and Undi Road Bypass (1.2 miles as part of the Pacific Northwest Trail) have been added to the inventory of non-motorized transportation trails. Per the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan, Jefferson County has focused on top trail priorities which are the Olympic Discovery Trail and the Tri- Area Active Transportation Network. The county is actively obtaining funding, acquiring property, securing access, and planning for construction of the remainder of the Olympic Discovery Trail within the county, which will also become a portion of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Trail and the Great American Rail Trail. The PROS Plan does not include on-road bicycle routes in its inventory or calculation of the ELOS. Per the PROS Plan, the current inventory of County-owned pathways and trails is 23.7 miles, resulting in the PROS Plan ELOS of 4 The 2010 NMRTP inventories 48.2 miles of total non-motorized trails owned by Jefferson County (NMRTP Chapter 3.1 and Chapter 5, page 10). This includes 0.7 miles of urban sidewalks that are not considered in the NMRTP’s ELOS calculation. The 2025 unincorporated population estimate of 23,779 and 48.2 miles of non-motorized trails owned by the County equates to about 2.0 trail miles per 1,000 population (or about four times the national standard of 0.5). ELOS from the 2010 NMRTP compares the 2000 countywide population of 25,953 to the inventory of County-owned composite non-motorized transportation and recreation facilities (48.2 total non-motorized trail miles minus the 0.7 miles of urban sidewalks = 47.5 miles of composite non- motorized transportation and recreation facilities)—this results in a baseline ELOS of 1.83 miles of County-owned trail for every 1,000 residents countywide. Carolyn Gallaway Commented [EK17]: I think it would be helpful to clarify the math in this section. Commented [JH18R17]: Added footnote Commented [EK19]: 34,865 is the County population including Port Townsend. Commented [JH20R19]: Corrected calculation, see comment below. Commented [EK21]: With the City population included are the city trail miles accordingly also factored in? Commented [JH22R21]: The NMRTP inventory and LOS wasn’t super easy to follow. We previously divided the full countywide population by Jeff Co owned trail facilities to be consistent with the PROS Plan LOS calculations. I’ve updated here to clarify/correct and divide unincorporated population by County owned trail facilities (and added a footnote to explain the various calculations). Commented [EK23]: I’m not sure what this means. Commented [JH24R23]: This language came directly from the PROS Plan, ok to remove TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–15 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 0.72 miles and planned level of service (PLOS) of 1.83 miles of trail for every 1,000 residents of county-owned facilities.5 In 1998, the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners adopted an ELOS for composite, County-owned non-motorized recreational trails of 0.52 miles for every 1,000 residents, which this Comprehensive Plan maintains as the adopted base LOS. Using this standard, the current inventory of 23.7 miles of County-owned pathways and trails from the 2022 PROS Plan, and the current 2025 population estimates, Jefferson County is exceeding the base LOS threshold, with a surplus of about 5.7 miles. The 2045 forecast year of 40,486 still exceeds this threshold, but the surplus would be reduced to about 2.6 miles if no new trails are built. See also Appendix D Capital Facilities Plan. The NMRTP suggests a jurisdiction such as Jefferson County with great tourism appeal can maintain an ELOS standard within the national standard range and pursue a plan for trail growth to meet an economic development strategy. In Chapter 5 of the NMRTP, a long-range vision for system demand from the years 2003 to 2022 is listed with planning level estimates. The Jefferson County NMRTP designates several state routes as on-road bicycle routes. Examples of such route designations include SR 104, SR 19,SR 20, and US 101. See Exhibit 6-6.6 Jefferson County's rural highways are frequently used by bicyclists for commuting or recreation. The NMRTP recognizes this use of the state highways. Cycling along these routes is limited to the shoulder. It is important to note that these routes are not dedicated bicycle facilities and users do not have the same operating privileges as with designated roadway bicycle facilities. Jefferson County coordinates with WSDOT and PRTPO in implementing safety features for these routes, such as rumble strips, improved roadway maintenance, and potential improvements, such as signage. 5 See PROS Plan Table 5.12 which is based on a countywide 2020 population of 32,977 and estimated 2040 population of 39,891. It should be noted that the 2022 Jefferson County PROS Plan describes the planned LOS from the 2002 NMRTP as 1.83 miles per 1,000 population, and recommends that demand standard for pathways and trails in the PROS Plan. The PROS Plan allows the County to be grant eligible for projects. To reconcile the NMTP and PROS Plans, this Comprehensive Plan identifies the 0.52 miles per 1,000 residents as a base LOS and 1.83 miles per 1,000 residents as a target LOS, if funding allows. See Appendix D, CFP for additional analysis. 6 Exhibit 1-15 in Appendix D shows US 101 as the only on street primary active transportation route in west Jefferson County. Commented [EK25]: I can’t seem to make this math work. If it is correct, it would be helpful to provide a better explanations of how you arrived at it. Commented [JH26R25]: This is directly from PROS Plan Table 5.12 (inventory of 23.7 miles, 2020 countywide pop of 32,977, and estimated 2040 pop of 39,891). Updated footnote. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–16 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Non-motorized transportation in the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA will be a principle consideration for planning, development and re- development. Non-motorized movement of people in the UGA will be facilitated through urban development designs, taking prominent consideration of connectivity between uses, distance from transit, sidewalks, and bicycle lanes. Refer to the Land Use Element, Section 1.4 Urban, and related goals and policies. Refer to Land Use Element, Section 1.4 Urban and related goals and policies, See also Exhibit 1-10 in the Land Use Element for a map of existing and planned recreation trail connections in the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA. Commented [EK27]: It seems beneficial to make reference to the County’s Tri-Area Transportation Plan and perhaps add a copy of our map as an exhibit. Commented [JH28R27]: Added cross reference to exhibit in the Land Use Element Commented [EK29]: What is this? Commented [PS30R29]: I think it's confusing, I'm just going to delete. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–17 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Exhibit 6-6 Off-Street and On-Street Bicycle Routes—East Jefferson County Note: This exhibit was updated with minor corrections since the April 2025 Public Draft. Source: Transpo Group, 2025. Commented [JH31]: I believe comment 027 from Cindy Jane on 5/29 (below) was in reference to the old multipurpose paths map this replaced. Comment: Add in safe connections to major neighborhoods such as Kala Point, along Hastings, Port Hadlock, and from Cape George to downtown/uptown Port Townsend (there is one listed for Cape George but it is on a busy, narrow road; a safe connection to the Larry Scott Trail could make the connection). Plus the exhibit needs a title, and the ODT is shown as proposed (dashed) not existing. Also tie that map to Policy TR-P-1.9 that states “Provide Active Transportation facilities along designated routes that rate “acceptable” or “good” according to the active transportation level of service definitions set out in the transportation element.” Commented [PS32R31]: Yes, a lot of this has been updated already. Commented [jo33]: updated map with comments from Appendix C Commented [JH34R33]: Anderson Lk RD removed east of Old Anderston Lk RD TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–18 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Transportation Demand Management Strategies Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies promote travel efficiency and energy conservation while reducing the adverse environmental impacts of the transportation system. In addition, TDM strategies lessen the need for additional capacity improvements by decreasing dependence on single-occupancy vehicle use and preserving capacity on existing roadways. The additional capacity created throughout the county’s transportation system can reduce the need for improvements. These strategies can include commute trip reduction and demand and system management strategies, telecommuting, non-motorized travel, site design standards, ridesharing, encouraging commercial and freight shipping during off- peak hours, staggered shift times, flexible work schedules and public transportation. These strategies are typically achieved through employer-based programs with technical assistance available from WSDOT subsidized proven programs. WSDOT provides incentives to individual employers willing to provide a financial benefit to employees for reducing drive- alone commuting. The county can support efforts to advance TDM techniques by funding subsidized proven programs, planning and public information towards implementing these strategies. Safety, Maintenance, & Preservation Safety programs seek to reduce the frequency and severity of traffic accidents through identification of high accident locations, corridors, or elements. Maintenance and preservation practices protect the transportation infrastructure through regular repairs as well as responding to emergency situations such as mudslides, culvert washouts, or flooding. Active Living This Element promotes opportunities to improve connectivity and increase non-motorized travel such as bicycling and walking to promote active living. The policies addressed in this element help to achieve goals of the Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) regarding chronic disease prevention. Many social and environmental factors influence the exercise choices individuals make, including the built environment. One of the CHIP goals includes providing Jefferson County residents with opportunities to get the appropriate levels of physical activity. Transportation Element Policies also address support for the Non- motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan (2010) and the The Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) is addressed in the following Elements: Land Use Land Use & Public Health Natural Resources Open Space, Parks & Rec. Challenges & Opportunities Environment Environmentally Friendly Development Techniques Transportation Active Living Community Health Improvement Plan TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–19 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan (2022). Safe routes to destinations such as schools are also promoted in policies. Countywide Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Annually, Jefferson County prepares a six-year transportation improvement program. It is used to help seek federal and state funds and apprise the general public and affected agencies of future capital investments in the transportation system. The program shows secured funding and planned projects requesting funding. As noted in the adopted 2025-2030 TIP, projects are expected to cost about $47 million over the six-year period (see Exhibit 6-7). Road, culvert, bridge, intersections, and non-motorized improvements make up most of the proposed program. About 97% of funding for the 2025-2030 TIP comes from State and Federal funds which is consistent with prior trends (State and Federal funding accounted for 93% of projects in the 2023- 2028 TIP and 95% of projects in the 2024-2029 TIP). Local funds available for this proposed six-year capital program average only about $214,000 per year. Exhibit 6-7 2025-2030 Six-year Transportation Improvement Program Source Jefferson County, 2025. Refer to Land Use Element, Land Use & Public Health TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–20 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA Individual intersections were only analyzed within the county’s Tri- Area, focused on the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA. Existing intersection level of service results show that two of the twelve study intersections currently operate at LOS E and LOS F. Each of these intersections are two-way stop-controlled. For two-way stop- controlled intersections, the Highway Capacity Manual 7th Edition methodology bases the LOS on the vehicle delay for the worst movement (generally vehicles making a left onto the major road when stopped on the minor road). While this methodology shows two intersections on WSDOT owned roads operating below standard, the vehicles traveling along the major approaches currently experience little to no delay. Under GMA and SEPA, new development and growth would not be required to mitigate existing deficiencies. The County could require new development to mitigate conditions back to existing levels of service, if traffic conditions worsen due to development. Under existing conditions, roadway capacity on SR 19, SR 116, and all roadways in the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA are adequate. However, there are several unsignalized intersections along SR 19 in the Irondale, Port Hadlock, and Chimacum areas that experience long delays as vehicles wait for gaps in traffic on SR 19. To accommodate the minor street delays while also maintaining mobility on SR 19, a minimum number of interruptions to traffic flow (traffic signals or roundabouts) should be pursued. The most appropriate way to avoid excessive traffic control is to minimize the number of locations of traffic access onto SR 19 as well as control turn movements onto SR 19. The intersection of SR 19 and SR 116 (Ness's Corner) currently experiences the greatest side-street delay, and is therefore the most immediate need for signalization or roundabout installation. Several intersections experience similar problems to those of the SR19/SR 116 intersection, such as SR 19 and Irondale Road, SR 19 and Prospect Avenue, and SR 19 and Chimacum Rd. Excessive minor leg delays should be reduced by improved traffic control at these intersections. As growth and development continues in the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA as planned over the next 20 years, further improvements to the road system will be required to maintain adopted Level of Service standards. New development could be required to pay for these improvements through new construction, or pro-rata payments to defined improvements as discussed in the Transportation Facilities Assessment section. A Traffic Impact Analysis would be needed for new developments to distinguish between existing deficiencies (not growth Based on projected volumes, intersection improvements will be required at the following intersections by 2038: SR 19 & SR 116 SR 19 & Irondale Rd. SR19 & Chimacum Rd. SR 19 & Prospect Ave. Future Intersection Improvements Commented [JP35]: PAO: Modify to include information from Mason Street hearing. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–21 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 funded) and deficiencies caused by the new development (growth funded). Proposed improvement projects are illustrated in Exhibit 6-8. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–22 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Exhibit 6-8 Spot Improvement Projects Along SR 19 Note: This exhibit was updated with minor corrections since the April 2025 Public Draft. Source: Transpo Group, 2025. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–23 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 6.4 GOALS & POLICIES Goal TR-G-1 Provide a safe, convenient, efficient, and integrated multimodal highway and arterial system for the movement of people and goods, one that is functionally well maintained, reflects local environment, and meets the demands of the future. Policy TR-P-1.1 Provide for a Level of Service D, or better, for rural county road facilities based upon Average Annual Daily Trips. Policy TR-P-1.2 Provide for a Level of Service D, or better, on all county road facilities within Urban Growth Areas, Master Planned Resorts, and Designated Highways of Regional Significance as established by the Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization Regional Transportation Plan, based upon Average Annual Daily Trips. Policy TR-P-1.3 Minimize life cycle costs of the county transportation system by preserving and maintaining both the adequacy and operating condition of the existing transportation system. Policy TR-P-1.4 Maintain the efficiency of traffic flow by Transportation Demand Management, planning for limited road access, monitoring traffic, upgrading traffic control devices, and developing traffic management techniques as appropriate Policy TR-P-1.5 Encourage the retention and use of roadway features in rural areas that enhance rural character, minimize impervious surfaces, and minimize cost to taxpayers and developers. Policy TR-P-1.6 Prevent glare and minimize pollution to the night sky through the use of appropriate roadway lighting and fixtures without compromising public safety. Policy TR-P-1.7 Enhance urban qualities by applying appropriate urban standards in Urban Growth Areas and Master Planned Resorts. Policy TR-P-1.8 Design roadways in the county road system according to their functional classification and forecasted 20-year traffic demand. Policy TR-P-1.9 Provide Active Transportation facilities along designated routes that rate “acceptable” or “good” according to the active transportation level of service definitions set out in the transportation element. Policy TR-P-1.10 Provide a level of access to JTA transit stop locations that rates “acceptable” or “good” according to the transit level of service definitions set out in the transportation element. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–24 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Goal TR-G-2 Promote a coordinated and integrated public transportation system that is accessible, affordable, available to all that is reliable, safe, cost effective, energy efficient, and contributes to the cultural and economic betterment of the residents of Jefferson County. Policy TR-P-2.1 Support existing public transportation programs and coordinate with the Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization to improve the system as needed, and consider including Kitsap County, Bainbridge Island and Seattle. Policy TR-P-2.2 Encourage cooperation between private and public transportation providers. Policy TR-P-2.3 Support the operational and comprehensive planning of Jefferson Transit Authority to reduce auto dependency, enhance regional trips by transit ridership and TDM, and ensure reliable transit options for all (especially for rural residents, youth, elders, disabled riders, and those without access to a personal vehicle). Jefferson County defaults to Jefferson Transit Authority’s definition and findings of transit levels of service, and will collaborate with Jefferson Transit Authority on the county’s transit system service needs. Policy TR-P-2.4 Coordinate with Jefferson Transit to provide transit routes and hours that equitably connect people to jobs, education, healthcare, and recreation opportunities, including culturally relevant youth activities and events, and to expand Dial-A-Ride availability. Policy TR-P-2.5 Provide convenient automobile, pedestrian, and bicycle access to park and ride facilities on arterial/collector routes where warranted and cost effective. Policy TR-P-2.6 Coordinate with Jefferson Transit Authority in the planning and permit review process, to identify and invest in road and pedestrian improvements that support transit use, reliability, safety, retail shopping facilities, offices, and industrial and residential development. Policy TR-P-2.7 Promote and enhance passenger and freight travel opportunities, including development of air and water transportation alternatives. Policy TR-P-2.8 Coordinate with the Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization and other jurisdictions to ensure that adequate Washington State Ferry System service is provided to the community. Policy TR-P-2.9 Encourage and support the adoption of electric and autonomous vehicle sharing programs that include a comprehensive network of electric changing stations that facilitate electric vehicle use. Commented [JH36]: Revised goal and policies per EJC’s youth informed discussions with some revisions. EJC’s full recommendation was to revise to “Promote a coordinated and integrated public transportation system that is accessible, affordable, and reliable for all — especially for rural residents, youth, elders, disabled riders, and those without access to a personal vehicle. Ensure that transit routes and hours equitably connect people to jobs, education, healthcare, and recreation opportunities, including culturally relevant youth activities and events.” Commented [JH37]: Revised per EJC’s youth informed discussions Commented [JH38]: Added per EJC’s youth informed discussions and “People First” feedback TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–25 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Goal TR-G-3 Provide safe, inclusive, universally accessible, and convenient routes, trails, parking facilities, trailheads, and other amenities that promote the use of non- motorized travel for people of all ages and abilitiesin a manner that integrates other forms of transportation. Policy TR-P-3.1 Using established standards, prioritize investments in coordinated and safe bicycle, equestrian, and pedestrian way improvements, with a focus on underserved populations, in accordance with the Non-motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan. Policy TR-P-3.2 In coordination with Federal, State, and regional agencies, utilities, and citizen groups, emphasize connectivity and access to schools, parks, employment, major activity service centers, transit facilities (ferry, bus, etc.), and links between existing trails and regional trail networks during land use and transportation system development planning. Policy TR-P-3.3 Evaluate safety issues for bicycle and pedestrian travel near schools and identify potential improvements. Policy TR-P-3.4 Support educational opportunities for children and adults that will encourage safe use of roadways, trails, and sidewalks for all transportation modes. Policy TR-P-3.5 Promote safe, convenient, and protected bicycle parking at activity centers such as schools, parks, commercial centers, employment and service centers, and mass transit facilities (ferry, bus, etc.) in accordance with the Non-motorized Transportation and Recreational Trails Plan. Policy TR-P-3.6 In coordination with the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan and the Non-motorized Transportation and Recreation Trails Plan, provide signage for on-street segments of bicycle, pedestrian, and equestrian routes in accordance with the Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Policy TR-P-3.7 Encourage buffering between motorized travel and non-motorized transportation modes. Policy TR-P-3.8 Coordinate with WSDOT and PRTPO to enhance existing bicycle connectivity and safety along state highway bicycle routes. Policy TR-P-3.9 Provide adequate and appropriate signage to promote safe and effective multimodal transportation on local and state bicycle routes. Refer to Open Space, Parks & Rec. Goal OS-G-2 and Land Use Element, Section 1.4 Urban and related goals and policies Commented [JH39]: Revised goal and added new policy per EJC’s youth informed discussions with some revisions. EJC’s full recommendation was to revise to “Provide safe, inclusive, and universally accessible walking and biking routes — including sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting, and trails — that promote non-motorized travel for people of all ages and abilities. Prioritize investments in rural areas, school zones, and underserved neighborhoods to support safe travel for youth, disabled residents, and those without vehicles.” Commented [JH40]: Could add the following policy per EJC’s recommendation, but perhaps this one is enough as is? “Prioritize non-motorized investments in rural areas, school zones, and underserved neighborhoods to support safe travel for youth, disabled residents, and those without vehicles.” Commented [JP41R40]: I further blended comment with existing policy Commented [JH42]: Added per comment 027 from Cindy Jane on 5/29 (starts with encourage, no need to have other caveats). TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–26 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Goal TR-G-4 Encourage land use types, mixes, and densities that promote efficient multi-modal transportation systems. Policy TR-P-4.1 Recognize and promote multimodal transportation, especially in high density Urban Growth areas where it is most efficient and effective. Policy TR-P-4.2 Encourage development which minimizes the need for expanding the road system and utilizes the capacity of the existing motorized and non-motorized transportation system Policy TR-P-4.3 Consider the use of impact fees as a means to ensure that adequate facilities are available to serve new growth and development, and to maintain adopted level of service standards for those facilities. Policy TR-P-4.4 Enhance transportation system safety by requiring appropriate facility design, including providing landscaping and setbacks adjacent to transportation facilities, and limiting access where appropriate. Policy TR-P-4.5 Protect outstanding scenic vistas accessible from transportation facilities through site design, provide visual, and where possible and appropriate, physical access to these resources. Policy TR-P-4.6 Require that subdivision and commercial project designs address multimodal mobility, including: a. Cost effective transit and delivery of emergency service; b. Provisions for all transportation modes, including electric vehicle infrastructure; c. Dedication of rights of way for existing and future transportation needs; d. Motorized and non-motorized access; e. Shoulders, sidewalks, trail connections, and bicycle pathways; f. Compatibility between motorized vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users; g. Inclusion of transit friendly design elements; h. Adequate parking for non-peak periods; i. Frontage improvements and roadway features to meet urban design standards within the Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA and, when appropriate, the Port Ludlow Master Planned Resort; and j. Freight access and mobility. Refer to Land Use Element, Section 1.4 Urban and policies LU-P-32.12, LU-P-32.13, and LU-G-35 Refer to the Land Use Element, Policy LU-P-35.2. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–27 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Policy TR-P-4.7 Provide adequate right-of-way for future transportation needs, through implementation of a systematic right-of-way acquisition program, by limiting encroachment of structures or ancillary uses into the right-of-way (e.g., setbacks), requiring right-of- way dedication or easements as part of development approval, and by acquiring right-of-way for future needs through purchase from willing sellers. Policy TR-P-4.8 Ensure that unacceptable safety hazards will be mitigated. The definition of unacceptable will be based on analysis of the existing facility(s) and the current standards for that facility(s) contained in commonly used and adopted transportation publications. Policy TR-P-4.9 Ensure that the Level of Service for County roads are met for existing and proposed development concurrent with proposed development prior to issuing development approvals, by requiring traffic impact analyses where appropriate. Policy TR-P-4.10 Ensure that new developments that would generate traffic that would significantly decrease the Level of Service below the adopted Level of Service Standard for an intersection or roadway segment not be approved without stipulations for mitigation. When a new development would lower the Level of Service below the adopted Level of Service Standard, require the development proponent to mitigate the impact by one of the following: a. Construct improvements that restore the Level of Service to the adopted Level of Service Standard; b. Contribute an impact fee that is a proportionate share of the cost of improvements related to the development; c. Implement alternative measures such as Transportation Demand Management (TDM), project phasing, or other appropriate measures determined by the county that will avoid the impact. Policy TR-P-4.11 Encourage land use development patterns and support technologies that reduce the demand for increased capacity on roadways. Policy TR-P-4.12 Require that roadway improvements and new subdivisions within the defined school pedestrian walking zone meet established standards intended to ensure the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–28 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Goal TR-G-5 Ensure that the transportation system in Jefferson County includes all modes of transportation, and encourages the efficient movement of goods, services, and passengers in coordination with a statewide system. Policy TR-P-5.1 Allow the use of public funds that ensure that appropriate transportation facilities are in place at the time of development in designated commercial and industrial zones. Policy TR-P-5.2 Ensure that access to the major air and water transportation facilities via County arterials and state highways is safe, efficient, and coordinated with other transportation modes. Policy TR-P-5.3 Recognize the existence and current use of private small airfields, landing strips, and private helistops in land use decisions, and ensure that proposed new and expanded use of these private facilities do not adversely impact surrounding properties, and meet all required development criteria. Policy TR-P-5.4 Protect arterials and highways from encroachment and congestion by access, utilizing appropriate traffic mitigation techniques for commercial development and other impediments to flow. Policy TR-P-5.5 Ensure that local access roads provide through passage to nearby collectors and arterials at safe speeds consistent with surrounding density and land use. Goal TR-G-6 Ensure efficient management of all transportation resources through cooperation in planning and project development with Federal, State, regional, and local jurisdictions, the PRTPO, and the Public. Policy TR-P-6.1 Coordinate with relevant agencies in the development of federal, state, and county regulations and guidelines for transportation of hazardous materials through the county. Policy TR-P-6.2 Coordinate planning for transportation improvements and projects with the facilities/utility planning activities of other agencies and utilities in order to reduce duplication of service, ensure that per-project costs are reduced, environmental impacts minimized, and community inconvenience and disruption lessened, while increasing the quality of service. Policy TR-P-6.3 Comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) in all transportation projects. Refer to Natural Resources Element and Open Space, Parks & Rec., Historical & Cultural Preservation Element, Goal OS-G-2 TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–29 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Policy TR-P-6.4 Maintain an ADA Transition Plan in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act Goal TR-G-7 Ensure that transportation planning includes equitable extensive opportunities for public involvement—especially from historically underrepresented or marginalized communities such as youth, disabled, BIPOC, and rural residents. Policy TR-P-7.1 Consider convening a transportation advisory committee to assist the county with transportation planning and implementation issues. Policy TR-P-7.2 Consider conducting a public process to develop local criteria and standards for arterial, collector, and local access streets, commercial and residential development, and roadway maintenance. Policy TR-P-7.3 Include racial and social equity, as well as environmental justice, as key criteria in planning, funding and construction transportation system improvements, programs and services. Policy TR-P-7.4 Offer multiple methods for participation, including youth-friendly engagement opportunities such as through schools, online platforms, and community partnerships. Goal TR-G-8 Promote Transportation Demand Management programs as a means of reducing traffic, minimizing environmental impacts such as climate change, and optimizing existing transportation investments. Policy TR-P-8.1 Encourage employers to reduce single-occupancy commuting by offering flexible work schedules, telecommuting options, subsidized transit passes, and incentives to carpooling. Policy TR-P-8.2 Encourage employers to provide on-site facilities that encourage use of alternative transportation modes, such as transit shelters and covered bike racks, lockers, and showers at work sites. Policy TR-P-8.3 Facilitate transportation demand management by coordinating and assisting in the development of transit amenities and non-motorized transportation facilities in county road or highway improvements, including bus pullouts, passenger shelters, bypass lanes, park-and-ride facilities, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and multi- purpose trails, where appropriate. Commented [EK43]: The County completed. https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/1806/PROW- ADA-Transition-Plan Commented [JH44R43]: Thanks! Commented [JH45]: Revised per EJC’s youth informed discussions Commented [JH46]: Added per EJC’s youth informed discussions TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–30 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Policy TR-P-8.4 Participate with state government and transit agencies in developing, promoting, and facilitating regional ridesharing through such programs as parking management, and ride match services and preferential parking for carpools and vanpools. Goal TR-G-9 Provide transportation facilities and services that are energy efficient, protect and enhance the environment, and preserve the existing residential quality of life. Policy TR-P-9.1 Continue the county’s long-standing commitment to prioritize mechanical and manual methods to control roadside vegetation. Policy TR-P-9.2 Ensure that all transportation projects comply with the Jefferson County Critical Areas Ordinance in order to protect critical areas, preserve open space, and maintain wildlife habitat in transportation projects and planning. Include the mitigation of adverse impacts on water resources, drainage patterns, and soils in the design of transportation facilities. Policy TR-P-9.3 Protect air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by improving the operating efficiency of the overall transportation system, through the effective use of multimodal transportation. Policy TR-P-9.4 Promote the conservation of energy through Transportation Demand Management policies and techniques. Policy TR-P-9.5 Address environmental retrofitting of transportation facilities, including the implementation of storm water facility best management practices and the replacement of culverts that impede fish passage, as opportunities and funding allows. Policy TR-P-9.6 Transportation facilities and services shall be sited, designed, or buffered to fit in harmoniously with their surroundings, as appropriate. When sited within or adjacent to residential areas, special attention should be given to traffic, noise, light, and glare impacts. Policy TR-P-9.7 Evaluate all transportation, plans and projects for opportunities to adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change. Policy TR-P-9.8 Encourage use of electric bicycles under RCW 46.04169 to reduce fossil fuel use and improve public health outcomes. Commented [JH47]: Added per comment 021 from Cindy Jane on 5/23 TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–31 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Goal TR-G-10 Continue to update the Transportation Improvement Program consistent with, and incorporated by reference into this Comprehensive Plan. Policy TR-P-10.1 The priority for maintenance and expansion of the county’s roadways shall be in areas within UGA boundaries, followed by corridors that serve as a connection between UGAs and/or regional centers. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–32 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 6.5 ACTION PLAN The Transportation Element is implemented by on-going updates to capital plans and system plans, as well as implementation of the county’s code, such as with concurrency standards. Exhibit 6-9 Transportation Action Plan Action Description Multi-modal System Investments Transportation Improvement Program Annually update the six-year transportation improvement program. Capital Facility Plan Include 6-year and 20-year transportation system improvements. System Plan & Code Implementation Transportation Levels of Service and Concurrency Implementation Consider implementing level of service and concurrency provisions in County code to include multimodal levels of service. Coordination Participate in Regional Forums Continue to coordinate in regional forums through the PRTPO and collaborate with WSDOT, Jefferson Transit, and Port of Port Townsend on road, airborne, and marine travel. Source: Jefferson County, 2025. Commented [EK48]: Does the County have this? It specifies inclusion of 20-yr transportation projects. This is not something Public Works has participated in. Commented [PS49R48]: Yes. This is technical appendix D in the comprehensive plan. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–33 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 [ This page intentionally blank ] TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–34 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Remove prior intentionally blank page from PDF if needed—formatted as a placeholder to ensure each element starts on a right hand spread. Do not publish from this point forward. Remove pages from consolidated PDF. These sections should be updated and copied into their appropriate chapters (TOC, References) as needed. References Jefferson County. (2010). Non-motorized and Recreational Trails Plan. Retrieved from http://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/440/Non-Motorized-Transportation-Recreationa Jefferson County Public Works. (2024, November). 2025-2030 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Retrieved from https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/444/6-Yr-TIP Jefferson County Public Works. (2024, November). Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Background. Retrieved from 6-Year Transportation Improvement Program: https://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/444/6-Yr-TIP Jefferson Transit Authority. (2022). 2022 Long Range Plan. Retrieved from https://www.jeffersontransit.com/DocumentCenter/Index/67 Jefferson Transit Authority. (2024). Climate Action Plan. Retrieved from https://www.jeffersontransit.com/DocumentCenter/Index/67 Jefferson Transit Authority. (2024, August). Transit Development Plan 2024-2029. Retrieved from https://jeffersontransit.com/DocumentCenter/View/461/Transit-Development-Plan_2024-2029- PDF?bidId= Peninsula Regional Transportation Planning Organization (PRTPO). (2024). Peninsula Regional Transportation Plan Online. Retrieved from https://www.prtpo.org/rtp-online Port of Port Townsend. (2014, July). Jefferson County International Airport Master Plan Update. Retrieved from Port of Port Townsend: http://portofpt.com/wp-content/uploads/JCIA-MPU- Complete-Report.pdf Transpo Group. (2008, October). Quimper Peninsula Travel Demand Model. Transpo Group. (2012, January). Quimper Peninsula Transportation Study and Model. Retrieved from Jefferson County: http://www.co.jefferson.wa.us/443/Transportation-Planning Washington State Department of Ecology. (2016, October). Washington's Greenhouse Gas Inventory. Retrieved from ecology.wa.gov: https://ecology.wa.gov/Research-Data/Scientific- reports/Statewide-greenhouse-gas-inventory Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). (2023). 2023 Collisions in Jefferson County: Jefferson County Collision Data Summary. Retrieved from http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/mapsdata/crash/collisionannual.htm. TRANSPORTATION Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–35 Public Hearing Draft April 2026 Contents 6 TRANSPORTATION 6–1 6.1 Purpose 6–1 6.2 Trends & Opportunities 6–3 Conditions & Trends 6–3 County-wide Conditions 6–3 Challenges & Opportunities 6–9 Jefferson County Roads & State Highway System 6–9 6.3 Transportation Plan 6–9 Roadway Level of Service 6–10 Active Transportation Level of Service 6–11 Concurrency 6–12 Transit Level of Service 6–12 Non-motorized Trail & Standards 6–14 Transportation Demand Management Strategies 6–18 Safety, Maintenance, & Preservation 6–18 Active Living 6–18 Countywide Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) 6–19 Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA 6–20 6.4 Goals & Policies 6–23 6.5 Action Plan 6–32 Exhibit 6-1 Functional Classification Map—East Jefferson County 6–4 Exhibit 6-2 Functional Classification Map—West Jefferson County 6–5 Exhibit 6-3 Transit Passenger Trips & Service Hours (2023) 6–7 Exhibit 6-4 Level of Service Definitions—Active Transportation 6–11 Exhibit 6-5 Level of Service Definitions—Transit 6–13 Exhibit 6-6 Off-Street and On-Street Bicycle Routes— East Jefferson County 6–17 Exhibit 6-7 2025-2030 Six-year Transportation Improvement Program 6–19 Exhibit 6-8 Irondale and Port Hadlock Area Improvement Projects 6–22 Exhibit 6-9 Transportation Action Plan 6–32