The rules of the BAT lanes on 15th Ave just south of the Ballard Bridge have been confusing since day one. Our sister site, MagnoliaVoice, is reporting that Seattle Police Chief Gil Kerlikowske has clarified the enforcement issues. Here is what the chief said in a letter:
Drivers may now use the lanes northbound at Mercer Place if they are intending to access the Galer Street ramp to the Magnolia Bridge. This meets the community’s request for safer access.
BAT lane signage indicating hours of operation should be interpreted to mean the lane is available to all vehicles outside the posted hours. Specifically, this means that drivers may use this as a normal lane outside the posted hours.
The ticket for BAT lane violations is $124. The transportation department will deploy electronic signs to inform drivers during the week of April 20th. After a two week period, SPD will begin enforcement of the BAT lane rules.