HomeMy WebLinkAbout8/15/2017 Item 16, Wulkan
Christian, Kevin
From:Mike Wulkan <mtwulkan@att.net>
Sent:Monday, August
To:E-mail Council Website
Subject:8-15 Agenda Item 16, Broad Street Bicycle Blvd. Options
Dear City Council Members,
Thank you for considering these comments on the three proposed options for the Broad Street
Bicycle Boulevard.
Alternatives 1 and 2 would result in a level of disruption to neighborhood residents and the motoring
public that outweighs the purported benefit of providing a “low stress” bicycle route. In addition,
Traffic diversions resulting from Alternatives 1 and 2 would increase vehicle miles traveled and
greenhouse gas emissions. Alternative 1 would also increase congestion on Chorro Street,
further increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
Alternative 1, by closing Broad Street to through traffic, would necessitate an amendment to
the Circulation Element, because the street would no longer function as a residential collector
street as it designated in the Circulation Element. In effect, Alternative 1 would change Broad
Street from a collector street to a local street, which would be inconsistent with the Circulation
Element.
Traffic calming measures similar to Alternative 3 are a more reasonable way to provide a calmer
environment for motorists, bicycles and pedestrians with less disruption to neighborhood residents
and the motoring public. If Alternative 3 is considered, I suggest:
Removing at least 2 of the stop signs on Chorro Street that would become unnecessary once
the speed cushions are installed. Besides, stop signs are not a recognized or desirable
method to calm traffic. Eliminating unnecessary stop signs would improve traffic flow, reduce
congestion and greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce noise levels from accelerating and
decelerating traffic.
Eliminating the proposed chicanes on Broad Street.
Eliminating either the proposed traffic circle on Broad Street at Mountain View or the proposed
nearby speed cushion. Installing both devices in such close proximity would be redundant.
Sincerely,
Mike Wulkan
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