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 state highways can only be designated 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 several existing laws to clarify that certain traffic regulations do not apply on shared streets. Specifically, it removes the applicability of existing pedestrian and vehicle traffic rules on shared streets, allowing for more flexible movement and interaction among users. It introduces a maximum speed limit of 10 miles per hour on shared streets and allows local authorities to establish this limit without needing an engineering investigation. Overall, the bill aims to enhance safety and promote shared use of roadways in urban areas.

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