Winslow Way Bicycle-Lane Work Could Start November 16

Work to turn the former eastbound right-turn lane on Winslow Way into a protected bicycle lane could start November 16, Bainbridge Island City Manager John Mauro told the City Council November 10. He estimated four nights of work if the weather cooperates. Some eastbound lanes may also close for a few hours at midday.

The change is at Olympic Drive and State Route 305, near the ferry terminal. The state changed the ferry approach in 2024 and prohibited drivers from turning right from Winslow Way into the dedicated ferry lane. The former turn lane has remained blocked. Its conversion gives people on bikes an approach to the intersection.

What travelers will see

The City’s project description calls for removing old traffic markings, adding a mountable curb and bicycle markings, updating signs, and replacing a solid storm-drain cover with a grate. A March engineering drawing shows a green bicycle box near the crossing. Council approved a $25,000 budget amendment for the work in March.

Mauro said a clearer layout should reduce ferry-line cutting and confusion. The City continues to press the state to staff the intersection in person. He gave a possible construction start, with no firm completion date or detailed closure schedule.

BIEN previously reported that the Washington State Department of Transportation had issued the permit. The November 10 update gives ferry travelers, cyclists, and neighbors the first specific work window.