HomeMy WebLinkAbout6 Transportation HEARING DRAFTJefferson 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, the Peninsula Regional
Transportation Planning Organization (PRTPO), other regional
planning partners, and related community groups. As of 2013,
transportation accounted 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
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
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–2 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
Transportation Element meets the requirements of the GMA. It
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-owned 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. “For
state highways of statewide or regional significance, RCW 36.70A.070(3)
does not apply.” Bldg. Ass’n of Clark County et al v. Clark County,
WWGMHB 04-2-0038c (Amended Final Decision and Order Nov. 23,
2005) at 39.
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.
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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.
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–4 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
Exhibit 6-1 Functional Classification Map—East Jefferson County
Source: Transpo Group, 2025.
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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.
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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.
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
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,
Refer to Housing Element, Goal HS-G-1
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–7 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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
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.
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
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.
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
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–9 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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,
▶ 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
3 Concurrency means providing improvements at time of development or within six years.
Top: Rural Road, Carolyn Gallaway
Bottom: Trail,
Jefferson County
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–10 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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)
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.
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–11 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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.
Acceptable Active Transportation facilities exist with high levels of traffic stress.
Poor No Active Transportation facilities present.
Sources: Jefferson County, 2025; Transpo Group, 2025.
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–12 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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).
The GMA requires that:
After adoption of the comprehensive plan by
jurisdictions required to plan or who choose to plan
under RCW 36.70A.040, local jurisdictions must adopt
and enforce ordinances which prohibit development
approval if the development causes the level of service
on a locally owned or locally or regionally operated
transportation facility to decline below the standards
adopted in the transportation element of the
comprehensive plan, unless transportation
improvements or strategies to accommodate the
impacts of development are made concurrent with the
development.
RCW 36.70a.070(6)(b) (emphasis added). “Locally owned or locally or
regionally operated transportation facility” plainly does not include
State highways. According to the Western Washington Growth
Manangement Board’s decision in Bldg. Ass’n of Clark County et al v.
Clark County:
The County has no authority to alter levels of service
standards for state transportation facilities. That
authority rests with the Washington State
Transportation Commission. Nor does the County have
responsibility to make ultimate decisions concerning
improvements to the state highway system, or to raise
needed funding. WSDOT has the responsibility for
planning these facilities, while the Legislature has the
ultimate responsibility of deciding what facilities will be
built and how they will be funded.
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–13 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
Bldg. Ass’n of Clark County et al v. Clark County, WWGMHB 04-2-0038c,
Amended Final Decision and Order (Nov. 23, 2005) at 38. The legislature
has relieved local governments from achieving concurrency for these
facilities.” Id. at 4. Concurrency “does not guaranty a certain level of
service that would raise the level of service and better the quality of life
in local communities.” Id. at 5. No concurrency requirement for the
County exists in the GMA for state highways of statewide or regional
significance. See Id. at 39.
A county may fulfill “the current GMA requirements by describing the
conditions of the state highway system during the next 20 years, the
impacts and effects these conditions will cause for the local system,
and the local system impacts on state highways.” Id. at 38. (emphasis
added). Therefore, the County’s obligations relative to state highways
in its plan is to estimate traffic impacts to state-owned transportation
facilities, to include state-adopted levels of service standards for the
purpose of monitoring the system’s performance, evaluating
improvement strategies, and to identify the needs of state-owned
transportation facilities consistent with the state’s multi-modal plan. Id.
at 38.
This Comprehensive Plan includes the information required by RCW
36.70A.070(6) for state transportation facilities, namely estimates of
traffic volumes on state facilities and level of service standards for
highways of state-wide and regional significance. The County relied on
a traffic model based on proposed land use patterns to project future
traffic volumes, and worked with cities and counties, the Peninsula
Regional Transportation Planning Organization (PRTPO) and the
WSDOT to identify future deficiencies. Id.
Nevertheless, 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.
In connection with this Comprehensive Plan, a concurrency
development regulation should be adopted that clarifies applicable
concurrency requirements and how these requirements can be met.
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
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Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–14 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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
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.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–15 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
Source: Transpo Group, 2025.
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 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
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–16 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 Board adopted an effective level of service (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 ELOS. Using this standard, the current inventory of 23.7
miles of county-owned pathways and trails from the PROS Plan, and the
current 2025 population estimates, Jefferson County is exceeding the
ELOS 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.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–17 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.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–18 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
Exhibit 6-6 Off-Street and On-Street Bicycle Routes—East Jefferson County
Source: Transpo Group, 2025.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–19 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 6–20 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 6–21 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 at State Highways 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 on Jefferson County-owned
roads 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. 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.
To mitigate delays while also maintaining mobility on SR 19, traffic
signals or roundabouts should be pursued through the Peninsula
Regional Transportation Planning Organization’s (PRTPO) Regional
Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP), which is a list of local
projects with planned or secured funding and anticipated to begin
within the next six years. Once completed, the RTIP will be forwarded
to WSDOT headquarters where the projects can be combined with
those from other RTPO TIPs to create the Statewide Transportation
Improvement Program (STIP).
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
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–22 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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 on county roads.
In connection with this Comprehensive Plan, a concurrency
development regulation should be adopted that clarifies applicable
concurrency requirements and prohibits development approval if the
development causes the level of service on a locally owned or locally or
regionally operated transportation facility to decline below the
standards adopted in the transportation element of the comprehensive
plan, unless transportation improvements or strategies to
accommodate the impacts of development are made concurrent with
the development. For example, 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 funded) and
deficiencies caused by the new development (growth funded).
Proposed improvement projects are illustrated in Exhibit 6-8.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–23 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
Exhibit 6-8 Spot Improvement Projects Along SR 19
Source: Transpo Group, 2025.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–24 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 6–25 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
Goal TR-G-2 Promote a coordinated and integrated public transportation system that is accessible,
affordable, 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.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–26 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 non-motorized travel
for people of all ages and abilities.
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
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–27 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 Adopt a concurrency development regulation that
clarifies applicable concurrency requirements and prohibits
development approval if the development causes the level of service on
a locally owned or locally or regionally operated transportation facility
to decline below the standards adopted in the transportation element
of the comprehensive plan, unless transportation improvements or
strategies to accommodate the impacts of development are made
concurrent with the development.
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
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 6–28 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
j. Freight access and mobility.
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 on county roads 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 strategies for mitigation
or funding for improvements through the development of a new
concurrency development regulation.
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.
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.
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-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.
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 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.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–30 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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.
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.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–31 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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.
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.
TRANSPORTATION
Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan 6–33 Public Hearing Draft April 2026
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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 6–8
Jefferson County Roads & State Highway System 6–8
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 6–13
Non-motorized Trail & Standards 6–15
Transportation Demand Management Strategies 6–19
Safety, Maintenance, & Preservation 6–19
Active Living 6–19
Countywide Transportation Improvement Program
(TIP) 6–20
Irondale and Port Hadlock UGA 6–21
6.4 Goals & Policies 6–24
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 6–14
Exhibit 6-6 Off-Street and On-Street Bicycle Routes—
East Jefferson County 6–18
Exhibit 6-7 2025-2030 Six-year Transportation
Improvement Program 6–20
Exhibit 6-8 Irondale and Port Hadlock Area
Improvement Projects 6–23
Exhibit 6-9 Transportation Action Plan 6–32