pages: TransportationCommission/2013-06-26.pdf, 6
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TransportationCommission | 2013-06-26 | 6 | the building directed downward due to visual pollution issues. Moreover, back in 2000, he talked to the Caltrans engineers at a public meeting and suggested they place a driveway to have an emergency egress out of the Posey Tube for any last minute bail outs. During the presentation, a Caltrans representative said the sidewalk/bike lane could not be widened because the roadway was already too narrow. Yet, he did not hear any reference of the California Legislation that requires Complete Streets approaches to every project that Caltrans undertakes or a reference to the possibility that pedestrians and bicyclists could have equal rights to automobiles. Commissioner Vargas called for public outreach by Caltrans on all aspects of any project. He also wanted to review the comments sought from the City's community meetings by organizations such as the bicycle coalition. Michael Nguyen replied during the environmental process that they worked with Alameda staff to post the project's description on their website and receive feedback about the project. Since the current project is programmed under SHOPP, Caltrans does not normally host the public meeting, but have the cities involved to take comments. Commissioner Miley stated that Caltrans staff could involve the community during the scoping process and before the project is programmed. Michael Nguyen replied that is correct. Commissioner Miley emphasized to Caltrans that the underlining message is to involve the community early on before the environmental review. Commissioner Bellows said under the project's schedule, there is ample time to have a public meeting to gain input. Also, she felt regardless of the funding source, this is a public project and although the environmental document typically dictates what type of outreach the sponsor does they can always conduct outreach. Commissioner Schatmeier agreed with the need for public outreach, but outreach must be done at a point when change is possible. He also felt the Transportation Commission should be able to have input early in the process. Commissioner Miley stated this happens a lot and has historically been an issue with projects and he knew the City was working on it. He agreed with the comments by the Commissioners and felt that with limited transportation dollars, it is critically important to be smart with investments. Commissioner Schatmeier asked the Transportation Commission if they would like to make a motion to inform the City Council of the Commission's desire to be informed and have community involvement by Caltrans early on in the project process. Commissioner Bertken asked Staff Naclerio how could the Transportation Commission get involved early enough to insert comments. Staff Naclerio replied that once a preliminary plan is developed, staff would go to the public to Page 6 of 17 | TransportationCommission/2013-06-26.pdf |