The bill establishes a framework for local authorities in Washington State to designate nonarterial highways as "shared streets," where pedestrians, bicyclists, and operators of micromobility devices can share the roadway with vehicular traffic. Local authorities must develop procedures for this designation and may only designate state highways as shared streets if they are the primary roads through a central business district. The bill mandates that vehicular traffic yield to pedestrians and micromobility users, and vice versa for bicyclists and micromobility users yielding to pedestrians. Additionally, local authorities are required to post an annual report on their websites detailing traffic accidents and violations on these shared streets.

The bill also amends existing traffic laws to clarify that certain rules do not apply on shared streets. Specifically, it states that pedestrians and personal delivery devices are not subject to certain crossing rules, and that drivers must adhere to different passing regulations on shared streets. Furthermore, it allows local authorities to establish a maximum speed limit of 10 miles per hour on shared streets, which does not require an engineering investigation for implementation. Overall, the bill aims to enhance safety and accessibility for all users of shared streets while providing local authorities with the necessary tools to manage these spaces effectively.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 46.61.250, 46.61.415, 46.61.110, 46.61.240, 46.61.770
Engrossed Bill: 46.61.250, 46.61.415, 46.61.110, 46.61.240, 46.61.770
Bill as Passed Legislature: 46.61.250, 46.61.415, 46.61.110, 46.61.240, 46.61.770
Session Law: 46.61.250, 46.61.415, 46.61.110, 46.61.240, 46.61.770