HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/4/2025 Item 7a, Brady
Sharon Brady <
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:Bicycle Barriers and Realistic Traffic Goals
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Dear Members of the City Council,
It has come to my attention that the left-turn lane on South Higuera is planned for removal to make
way for concrete bicycle barriers. As a resident of Chumash Mobile Home Park, I strongly urge you to
reconsider this decision. This change presents significant safety concerns for those driving
southbound and will only exacerbate traffic congestion in an already busy corridor.
Eliminating the left-turn lane will create hazardous conditions for drivers, increasing delays,
confusion, and frustration for all road users. Without a safe and efficient way to turn left, drivers may
be forced into riskier maneuvers, leading to potential accidents and further traffic disruptions.
According to the Planning Department's website, there are already substantial development projects
either approved or under construction, including:
1,728 residential units
339,233 sq. ft. of commercial space
A five-story public parking garage
A 26,875 sq. ft. residential facility
The Water Resources Recovery Facility
Additionally, under the building review are:
2,193 more residences
378,512 sq. ft. of commercial space
Several hotels, a bed and breakfast, assisted living facilities, a theater, a remodeled Tribune building, a
convenience store, a fueling station, and a Life Plan Community with 298 units and a 2.0-acre trailhead park
Given this extensive growth, the City's goal of reducing single-occupant vehicle traffic to 50% by 2030 is
unrealistic. While alternative transportation methods may work near Cal Poly, they do not align with the reality
of increasing residential and commercial development across the city. Attempting to force vehicle reduction by
removing critical traffic infrastructure, such as the left-turn lane and adding cement bicycle barriers, is both
impractical and unsafe. The barriers that currently exist aren’t not well used and are frustrating for drivers.
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I’d also like to highlight the consequences of planning decisions made by politicians and bureaucrats
based on minority opinions in the name of environmental concerns. For example, efforts to protect the
tiny smelt fish and similar environmental priorities contributed to disaster in Los Angeles. More than
100,000 people lost their homes, and the resulting pollution severely impacted both the ground and
air. We cannot ignore the fact that the majority of current and future residents will rely on their
vehicles for timely and practical transportation. Bicycle riders are very much in the minority and
should not be prioritized over the safety and functionality of critical infrastructure for drivers.
Recently, I shared these concerns on a neighborhood forum, where the post received over 3,100
views. Out of the responses, only two individuals supported more bike lane projects. One commenter
aptly pointed out that City Planning often puts "the egg before the hen,” highlighting that infrastructure
must accommodate real-world needs before forcing behavioral changes. Another stated that while
residents are encouraged to voice their opinions at planning meetings, those concerns are often
ignored.
I urge you to prioritize the safety and mobility of all residents. Please reconsider the removal of this
left-turn lane to ensure that South Higuera remains accessible and functional for the entire
community.
I look forward to your replies.
Sharon Brady
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