As we reported back in July, DDOT is taking public comments (due by October 30th) on the proposed alternatives for the K Street Transitway:

1) no build

2) a two-lane center busway and 3 traffic lanes in each direction

3) a three-lane center busway (3rd lane allows for passing) with 2 traffic lanes and a bike lane in each direction

Apparently WABA is asking for a slightly altered version of alternative three that replaces the bike lanes with buffered bike lane or “cycle track”. They are concerned that a “standard bike lane that is not separated from traffic will be quickly filled with parked vehicles and delivery trucks ultimately rendering the facility useless.” K street is a corridor heavily frequented by loading vehicles or vehicles that park illegally. DDOT should definitely explore WABA’s cencept very seriously since these facilities have proved extremely successful in other cities and a solid bike facility on K Street could really improve the stature of biking in the District.

There is a robust string of comments going on over at Greater Greater Washington (detailed post on the alternatives) that you should join, but don’t forget to submit your formal comments to DDOT. Also, let’s remember that this prospects of this project materializing without a more realistic funding plan from DDOT or vastly expanded federal support for the TIGER Grants Program are very poor. There were $57 billion worth of proposals competing for just $1.5 billion worth of TIGER Funds. You do the math.