Gov, let’s talk 520.

Hi Governor Gregoire,

First of all, let me say I’m very pleased that you are tackling the 520 issue. As a commuter across this bridge, I am very, very interested in fixing this problem. So, here are some of my thoughts that you might want to consider when repairing the bridge.

1. The bridge is just a part of the problem, the real conjestion takes place at all the crazy on and off ramps that jam 520 (And yes I-405, I’m looking at you). If you really want to tackle the problem, you’ve got to fix these junctions as well
2. Think rail. Really, building rail lines back and forth between Seattle and Redmond would be the best long-term solution. It would be clean, easy for riders to use, and the most reliable option of them all.
3. You want two car lanes and one HOV lane each way, how about one car lane, one HOV lane, and one rail ‘lane’ each way?
4. Don’t forget to put in a protected bike lane like the one on I-90. (and make sure not to put the rails in the bike lane like we did in Seattle)
5. And I think you’re going to have really big problems charging tolls before you’ve fixed the actual lanes. You think back-ups are bad now, just wait…

Thanks!