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Bill

HB 1992

Implementing safe system approach strategies for active transportation infrastructure.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Parshley and 4 co-sponsors

Washington bill mandates safe infrastructure design standards for pedestrians and cyclists to reduce active transportation injuries and deaths statewide.

Public hearing in the House Committee on Transportation at 1:30 PM.
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Bill Summary · HB 1992

Legislative bill overview

HB 1992 implements "safe system approach" strategies for active transportation infrastructure in Washington State, focusing on infrastructure design that prioritizes safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The bill directs transportation agencies to adopt evidence-based design standards and safety protocols for walking and biking facilities. It represents a shift toward treating transportation safety as a systemic design problem rather than relying primarily on user behavior.

Why is this important

Active transportation injuries and fatalities remain a significant public health issue, with pedestrian and cyclist deaths increasing in recent years nationally. By mandating safety-first infrastructure design standards, the bill could reduce serious injuries and deaths while encouraging more people to walk and bike, with secondary benefits for public health, congestion reduction, and emissions. The safe systems approach has been adopted successfully in other states and countries.

Potential points of contention

  • Infrastructure costs: Implementation may require significant municipal and state investment in redesigning existing roads, protected bike lanes, and sidewalk improvements, raising questions about funding mechanisms and priorities
  • Driver impact and congestion: Some argue that prioritizing active transportation infrastructure (lane reductions, traffic calming) may increase vehicle congestion in certain areas, affecting commuters and businesses
  • Implementation standards clarity: The bill's effectiveness depends on how specifically "safe system approach" is defined in regulations; vague standards could limit real-world impact or create inconsistent enforcement across jurisdictions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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