Lacey council talks streets and money

The Lacey City Council went on the road last night to explain the need to keep its roads and streets in good repair.

The potential of a Transportation Benefit Dkistrict (TBD) to do just that was the subject, when the council met with residents of Panorama to explain the benefits of  a tax increase to mantain the city’s streets and roads.  The Lacey council plans to put a measure on the ballot early next year to increase the sales tax from 8.7 percent to 8,9 percent.  That will raise about $1.3 million each year for the purpose of maintaining city streets and sidewalks.

While city streets are generally in good condition, the new tax will help keep them in that condition.

Both the cities of Olympia and Tumwater currently have funding mechanisms in place  for their respective TBDs.   Thurston County is also looking at funding its transportation district.

Some concern was voiced about the Woodland Trail where it crosses Sleater Kinney near the Pacific Avenue intersection.  Drivers have a difficult time seeing bikers or walkers along the trail as they cross the street.  Some sort of signaling device was suggested.   City staff said they’re working on the problem and  hope to have a solution by next year.