SR305 / Olympic Drive Multimodal Improvements

During commute hours at the busting Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal, thousands of passengers arriving by foot or bike are channeled into the 600-foot Olympic Drive (SR 305) connection between the ferry terminal and Downtown Bainbridge Island. With individual ferries loading/unloading up to 200 cars, 2,000 passengers, and more than 100 bicyclists every 50 minutes—this critical stretch of roadway is typically congested with vehicles, pedestrians, and the highest number of bicycle riders in the Washington State Ferry system. Yet, roadway conditions presented challenges and did not provide the mobility infrastructure befitting this important island gateway.

Working with the City of Bainbridge Island, WSDOT, and Washington State Ferries, MIG developed and evaluated multimodal concepts to improve connections to the ferry terminal. The final design included wider sidewalks and pedestrian lighting, ADA curb ramps and traffic signal improvements, and a protected center left-turn bike lane, cycle track, and bike boxes. MIG also navigated WSDOT and FHWA review requirements to secure Experimental Approval for the center left-turn bike lane. In response to community priorities, the team incorporated retaining walls into the design to create more space for the multimodal improvements while preserving existing mature trees. Utility improvements included new storm drainage and green stormwater facilities, watermain replacement, and utility undergrounding.

The completed improvements ease navigation for all, provide a more comfortable connection for people walking and biking, and transform a critical island gateway into a safer, multi-modal corridor.