As a parent of two children attending Peter Kirk Elementary School, and a lifelong resident of Kirkland, I am deeply concerned about the safety on our roads, particularly at the intersection of 6th Street and 13th Ave. This intersection is an access point for Peter Kirk, Kirkland Middle School, Crestwoods Park, and the Cross Kirkland Corridor, and daily we are witnessing near-miss incidents between pedestrians and vehicles. What’s more alarming, over 600 children cross through this intersection daily. The City of Kirkland, however, despite numerous pleas from the school and residents, refuses to acknowledge this safety issue. The city conducted a study to prove why a 4-way stop was not warranted and did not move forward on a mini-roundabout previously discussed with LWSD. We demand immediate action.

We propose the following changes to improve sight distance for drivers which will improve traffic circulation and pedestrian safety: 

• Relocate the north leg crosswalk on 6th St. south toward the intersection
• Maintain the existing speed hump
• Realign the crosswalks on 13th Ave. inward to improve sight distance
• Adjust ADA curb ramps on the east and west sides of 6th St.

The situation is urgent, and the city must recognize the potential danger faced by our children and community members before it is too late. It's time to prioritize pedestrian safety. We urge the City of Kirkland to address this pressing issue, post haste. This project is a candidate for the City of Kirkland's Neighborhood Safety Program but needs your support to be awarded a grant for up to $75,000 to improve safety. This project has the support of Peter Kirk Elementary, Peter Kirk PTSA, Norkirk Neighborhood Association, adjacent residents and many of your neighbors in West of Market and the Highlands. Please sign our petition and join the call for a safer Kirkland.

Norkirk Safety Dance Video

Project Map:

Thank you for your support!

Carl Vander Hoek

Norkirk Resident, Peter Kirk Parent, LWHS Grad, Neighborhood Project Coordinator