The League supports the proposed three-lane roadway configuration as part of the Kings Beach Commercial Core project for its water quality benefits associated with a reduction in roadway area, slower traffic speeds, increased areas for stormwater treatment opportunities, and facilitating safe pedestrian and bike mobility.
The following are just a few important reasons the three-lane alternative should be implemented.
- Water Quality: Scientific research has established that roads are one of the primary culprits in fine sediment loading to the Lake which results in clarity loss. The smaller surface area of the three lane design, establishment of roundabouts, and expansion of landscaped areas will reduce the amounts of fine sediments and nutrients entering the lake by decreasing the area needed for sanding, reducing vehicle speeds, and increasing infiltration capacity. The Kings Beach Commercial Core is located in close proximity to the Lake’s edge which makes the management of sediments extremely imperative for this community. In fact, this project needs to be going further to maximize the reduction in fine sediments by incorporating the use of pervious and semi-pervious materials for the sidewalks.
- Scenic Beauty: The design will achieve a higher degree of compliance with the scenic threshold.
- Construction Schedule: The four-lane alternative will require 1-3 additional construction seasons than the three-lane plan.
