Bill > SB6311

This bill mandates that during construction projects, continuous, safe, and accessible pedestrian passage must be maintained, especially in sensitive areas like hospital impact zones (areas within 300 feet of a hospital), public park impact zones (areas within 300 feet of a park), and school walk zones during school days. The bill defines key terms such as "reroute" (shifting pedestrian flow on the same side of the street) and "detour" (directing pedestrians to the opposite side of the street via crosswalks when a same-side reroute isn't feasible). It prohibits sidewalk closures in these zones unless it's impossible to maintain passage on the same side or by using temporary structures, and if a detour is necessary, it must comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Permittees, those authorized to work in these zones, must submit a pedestrian access safety plan detailing reroutes, detours, and accessibility for people with disabilities, and coordinate with hospitals regarding emergency access. Permitting authorities can inspect work zones and issue stop-work orders or penalties for non-compliance, and the bill also requires the department to adopt rules for implementing these standards.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6311&Year=2025&Initiative=false