El Cerrito council backs divisive bike lane project despite parking concerns
Briefly

El Cerrito plans to implement a Complete Streets project on Richmond Street by 2026, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety while sacrificing some on-street parking. Features include raised intersections, speed tables, chicanes, curb ramps, and buffered bike lanes. The project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and aligns with the city's Active Transportation, Complete Street, and Climate Action Plans. Despite initial community approval, concerns about lost parking have led to mixed feelings among residents. Councilmember Lisa Motoyama emphasized the long-term vision for a greener, more sustainable city, acknowledging short-term sacrifices.
The Complete Streets project along Richmond Street aims to lower car speeds and improve pedestrian safety through various installations including raised intersections, corner extensions, and flashing crosswalk signals.
The initiative aligns with the city's Active Transportation Plan and Climate Action Plan, which focus on enhancing pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to improve safety and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Councilmember Lisa Motoyama stated that the vision for El Cerrito is to become a greener, sustainable, carbon-free city, acknowledging some sacrifices like on-street parking for long-term benefits.
Community feedback has highlighted concerns about the loss of 178 on-street parking spots, with many residents expressing that it could significantly impact their quality of life.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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