pages: CityCouncil/2020-05-19.pdf, 31
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CityCouncil | 2020-05-19 | 31 | stated Webster Street does not have a parking structure; urged the City to plan for a Webster Street parking structure or solution; expressed concern about partially closing of Versailles Avenue without advance public discussion: Jim Strehlow, Alameda. The Senior Transportation Coordinator stated a recent report showed a child on a bike almost hit by a speeding car at Pacific Avenue and Schiller Street; the intersection is without a barricade; a barricade is be requested at the intersection. Vice Mayor Knox White stated that he appreciates the network map included in the staff report; noted the map shows developing the program into the business portion; slower streets are safer than what exists; noted a pedestrian was hit earlier in the day at a properly designed intersection of Constitution Way and Buena Vista Avenue; stated current streets are not hospitable to those walking and bicycling; expressed support for the program, and prioritizing signage at every intersection; stated it is not a shelter in place program, it is a social distancing program; the program is going to be needed at least through the end of 2020. Councilmember Vella expressed support for more signage and barricades, especially where near misses have occurred; stated the design should be as safe as possible; expressed concern about limited information being provided and learning about programs after-the-fact; signage and barricades are critical at pass-through traffic areas; the program is related to social distancing and many people will be working and learning from home until the end of the year; the program should be continued until at least the end of 2020. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for the program; stated that she regrets the lack of notification to residents; the program was brought by a series of unfortunate incidents; the program should be expanded over time under the Active Transportation Plan to allow for community input; discussed walking through town; stated residents support slowing streets; people are still sheltering in place; Council must remain aware of staff time; noted East Bay Regional Park (EBRPD) Board Member Ellen Corbett is urging cities to close streets allowing people more space to spread out and properly allow social distancing. Vice Mayor Knox White moved approval of endorsing temporary street reconfiguration for social distancing in response to the COVID-19 emergency, with clarification that this is during social distancing, not just shelter in place orders, and endorsement of moving forward in the spirit of Ms. Corbett's request of expanding the program on a temporary basis working through the Active Transportation Program in order to address it on a more permanent basis in the future. Councilmember Vella seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Absent; Knox White: Aye; Oddie: Absent; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 3; Absent: 2. Councilmembers Daysog and Oddie returned. Special Meeting Alameda City Council 22 May 19, 2020 | CityCouncil/2020-05-19.pdf |