Photo by Sarah Hopt
Kent, Washington, a city nestled in the heart of the Green River Valley, has seen steady growth in recent years. Home to just over 130,000 residents, Kent balances its industrial roots with picturesque parks and a thriving business district. However, with this growth has come a noticeable rise in pedestrian and bicycle accidents, making traffic safety an increasing concern in the city’s expanding landscape.
Kent in Crisis?
Some reports alert us to the dangerous spikes in accidents recorded in recent years. Between 2016 and 2020 in Kent. According to preliminary data from the Washington State Patrol:
- At least 25 individuals suffered serious injuries while walking or biking.
- There has been a 71.7% rise compared to the average from the previous four years.
- 88% of the incidents happened on streets with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or higher.
- 88% also occurred on roads with five or more lanes.
- Nearly half (44%) took place more than 300 feet from the nearest marked crosswalks.
- Only 8% occurred more than 600 feet away from a transit stop.
- In just 10% of the accidents, the driver was noted as exceeding the posted speed limit.
In 2023, there were 10 fatalities recorded on the streets involving pedestrians and cyclists. Here are some of the key areas you should be aware of to take the necessary precautions when navigating through them:
Downtown Kent
In general, traffic accident statistics often show a clear spike in central and commercial areas of cities, and Kent is no exception. Downtown Kent, with its bustling Kent Station, popular shops, and restaurants, sees significant pedestrian and vehicle traffic. These incidents don’t just happen late at night; they are a common occurrence at any time of day, throughout the week. Areas near City Hall and the Kent Farmers Market are particularly notable hotspots for accidents.
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Central Ave (N & S)
Both directions and areas along Central Ave are regrettably recurring sites for fatal accidents. A cyclist lost their life and another was seriously injured near the intersection with E Titus Ave. Pedestrians have also been impacted, with fatalities reported in the northern section of the avenue, particularly near the Ovid 19 Isolation and Quarantine Facility.
SE Kent Kangley Rd
The intersection with 132 Ave SE is a focal point for accidents, including a fatal incident in 2023 where a cyclist lost their life. Another intersection of particular concern is 127 Ave SE, which statistics indicate poses a higher risk for pedestrians.
In total, there have been 5 serious or life-threatening injuries recorded in this stretch just in 2023.
Mid-September of 2024
As of mid-September, there have already been 5 fatalities in 42 pedestrian accidents. Key locations include:
- Pacific Highway S, right in front of Salt Air Vista Park
- 1 SE Kent Kangley Rd, with two incidents nearby at the intersections of 124th and 132nd
- Central Ave S, at the entrance to Valley Mobile Manor
- A cyclist tragically lost their life on SE 272 St, near the scenic Lake Meridian, on a Friday at 9 PM.
All traffic statistics provided by the WSDOT the and Washington Traffic Safety Commission
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