Wishing Bernie Mikkelsen a Speedy RecoveryMany who know the East Bay's bike-building icon will be pleased to read Neal Adams' heartfelt comments posted on EBBC-talk about Bernie Mikkelsen's progress following a stroke in October.
Road conditions
PINEHURST: Pinehurst is now open after a months-long closure to rebuild a retaining wall.
SKYLINE: Through November 10, Skyline, between Grizzly Peak and Broadway Terrace, is closed for slide repairs.
MT. DIABLO The newly paved upper section of Mt. Diablo that extends from the summit to Rocky Point picnic area is in great shape and rides like a dream. However, a nearby two-foot shoulder made of compressed gravel has been disturbed by foot traffic and car traffic and now covers the road. When you are descending at high speed, you can take a header if you hit the loose gravel on the road.
Estuary crossing update
On December 5, the Alameda City Council will consider approval for Alameda Landing development, which may include a bike/ped shuttle between Alameda and Oakland as part of the conditions of approval. Additionally, the City of Alameda Public Works got approval from City Council to pursue grants for a feasibility study to look into additional and potentially more sustainable estuary crossing alternatives. More info:
BABC Seeks Advocacy Director
The Bay Area Bicycle Coalition (BABC) seeks to hire a part-time Advocacy Director. The Advocacy Director's primary focus will be to implement BABC's advocacy objectives while representing BABC to elected officials, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), Caltrans, Bay Conservation and Development Commission, Bay Trail Project, local Bay Area bicycle coalitions, and other public agencies and advocacy groups. The Advocacy Director will work a 20 hour work week and paid time will be provided for vacation and holidays. To find out more about this exciting opportunity, please visit BABC's homepage at www.bayareabikes.org. Applications are due Wednesday, November 15, 2006.
Witnesses Sought
On Saturday July 29th 2006, approximately 250 feet south of the Shepherd Canyon Rd./Skyline Blvd./Pinehurst Rd. intersection in the Oakland Hills around 3:30pm bicyclist Ed Weiss was stuck and killed by a motorcycle. Ed was riding his bicycle south in his lane. If you saw two Sportbike or Ninja type motorcycles in the area, one Black and one Orange, and have any information on this fatal crash or information on the motorcyclist(s) involved please contact Officer W. Wong, Oakland Police Department at 510.777.8551 or email.A concerned resident on Skyline, Bennett Hall, has put together a tremendous website that includes photos of the crash scene.
A lovely Memorial Service was held on Sunday August 6 at the Piedmont Community Center. The family has asked that contributions be made to the EBBC in honor of Ed Weiss. To donate with a credit card using Acteva, click here.
EBBC Urges "NO" Vote on Propositions 1B and 90
NO ON 1B
When Governor Schwarzenegger signed the $20 billion Transportation Bond Measure 1B, the highly symbolic location chosen was the entrance to the Caldecott Tunnel. The message was unmistakable - the purpose of the measure was highway construction, including the 4th bore project (see the Campaigns page).
Senator Perata and other Democratic leaders joined the Governor, and provided crucial support for the measure. Phil Angelides, the Democratic nominee for Governor has also come out in favor of the measure. Clearly for the upcoming November election there will not be even a particle of difference between the two major parties on the hugely important issues of land-use and transportation.
The EBBC and CBC tried very hard to have bicycle/pedestrian funding included in the bond measure. Our efforts were thwarted, as was an attempt to add a simple Route Accommodation provision. The billions spent on new freeways will surely throw up more barriers for bicyclists and pedestrians.
More info about the bond and ways to make yourself known as a Bike Voter!
NO ON 90
Proposition 90 is being touted by its supporters as necessary reform of eminent domain. In fact, it goes much further. In our opinion, much too far.
Proposition 90 is a constitutional amendment that not only limits eminent domain but also potentially restricts state, and local governments' abilities to make land use decisions through regulation and zoning. Any governmental action that affects the value of a property such as removing parking to install bicycle lanes would potentially put the government at risk to pay for "damages" to the affected property through the provisions outlined in Proposition 90.
California may well need to reform eminent domain but Prop 90 is a radical plan that goes too far and would cost taxpayers billions of dollars each year. It is opposed by an unusually broad coalition of homeowners, small businesses, farmers, environmentalists, teachers, taxpayer watchdog groups, businesses, organized labor, public safety Officials, and civil rights groups. More than 200 of California's most well-respected and leading organizations are all united in their strong opposition to Prop. 90. More information can be found at www.noprop90.com.
Future Projects in Emeryville
The Emeryville City Council has scheduled a special session to discuss Future Projects in Emeryville:
Saturday, October 21, 2006
9am to afternoon
City Hall, 1333 Park Av. @ Hollis St.
The public comment period will begin at 10:30am and a light lunch will be provided.
Emeryville's central geographic position makes the city a key element in regional bicycle connectivity. Many existing budget priorities are like stale leftovers that deserve careful scrutiny. In sum, opportunities exist to prioritize new projects in the budget.
What to prioritize? Read on . . .
Bike around Bay Point Day
from Steve Hoagland, Traffic Committee Chair, Bay Point Municipal Advisory Council–Bay Point Municipal Advisory Council in conjunction with the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Department is hosting Bike Around Bay Point Day, Saturday October 21, 2006, 10am-2pm beginning at Riverview Middle School 205 Pacifica Avenue in Bay Point.
This event will include a "Bike Rodeo" by the Contra Costa Sheriff Department who will also explain bicycle safety and rules of the road. There will be free bicycle helmets for those needing them, as well as awards, prizes and a raffle. Simple bike repairs will be offered by Schwinn City of Antioch.
Join members of local bicycle clubs, schools, scouts, churches and families as we join with MAC members and other elected officials to ride the bike lanes and bike trails of Bay Point. Area businesses and the Bay Point Municipal Advisory Council will provide refreshments at rest stops along the route.
Street Skills course in Alameda, October 18
Bike Alameda is offering a four-hour Street Skills bike safety course on October 18, 5:30-9:30pm. Cost is $20, $10 for BikeAlameda members. No bike required; open to cyclists 16 years and older. For more information and to register, go to BikeAlameda.
Road Closures
LAFAYETE-MORAGA: A portion of the Lafayette-Moraga trail, between Hawthorne and the Olympic Ave staging area, is posted to be closed from Sept 11 thru Sept 27 for repaving.
EBBC October Meeting, Oakland's Mosswood Park
EBBC's next meeting begins on Tuesday, October 17 at 7:30pm at Mosswood Park Community Center, 3612 Webster, one block south of MacArthur and west of Broadway, three blocks east of Telegraph Ave. At 8:30pm our special guest speaker will be Jim Cunradi, AC Transit Planner, who will offer a glimpse into the future configuration of Telegraph Avenue where Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is being planned to co-exist with space for bicyclists. We have also invited AC Transit directors to attend. Come welcome Mr. Cunradi, meet your elected transit directors, and learn how you can promote the innovative BRT project along with the long overdue extension of the Telegraph Bikeway.
ACT NOW! Urge Governor to sign bike-friendly AB 2444 and SB 1556
With the EBBC's help, AB 2444 (the first bill the Transportation and Land Use Coalition (TALC) has ever sponsored) passed the Legislature! But getting the Governor to sign AB 2444 remains our biggest challenge, so we need your help now more than ever.
Passage of AB 2444 would mean millions of dollars for bicycle safety improvements in the Bay Area, everything from new bikeways to bike lockers. But the Governor will not sign the bill unless he sees overwhelming support from the Bay Area for AB 2444!
Overall, AB 2444 would raise up to 60 million dollars each year--half to fund air and water quality improvements and half to fund transportation projects decided on by each county, including bicycle and pedestrian safety and public transit operations. Funds would be raised via a $5-$10 motor vehicle registration fee.
Passage of SB 1556 would establish the Great California Delta Trails System, to plan and build a new bike/ped trail in the Delta similar to the SF Bay Trail.
CALL! Call the Governor's office at 916-445-2841:
- Press 1 for English (or other number as appropriate)
- Then press 2 to voice an opinion on legislation.
- Then press 0 to speak to someone in the Governor's office.
- Tell the staffer your name and which organization, if any, you represent.
- What to say: "I want the Governor to sign AB 2444. AB 2444 lets the Bay Area solve our own transportation and environmental challenges. I also want the Governor to sign SB 1556 to create the Great California Delta Trails System."
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, State Capitol Building, Sacramento, CA 95814, Fax: 916-445-4633
Download: EBBC letter supporting AB 2444 | EBBC letter supporting SB 1556
EMAIL!
For information on other bicycle-friendly bills awaiting the Governor's signature, including sample letters, go to the California Bicycle Coalition website.
Road Closures
LAFAYETE-MORAGA: A portion of the Lafayette-Moraga trail, between Hawthorne and the Olympic Ave staging area, is posted to be closed from Sept 11 thru Sept 27 for repaving.
PINEHURST: A Contra Costa project to construct a retaining wall on Pinehurst, above the lower switchback, is expected to begin on August 14. The road will be closed to all traffic, including bicyclists, from Skyline to Canyon during construction that is expected to continue for 6-7 weeks. Please abide by posted signs at Skyline and Canyon Road intersections with Pinehurst. The closure dates will be posted. Always obey construction flag personnel. For information, contact Mike Carlson, CoCoCo Public Works, at (925) 313-2321.
MT DIABLO: The road leading up to the Summit hasn't been overhauled since the 1930's and it's long overdue for re-paving. Starting on July 10 through September 8, all visitors should plan to stop 4.5 miles from the Summit. The park will be closed at Summit Road to all traffic including bicyclists, hikers and vehicles. It'll be closed all the way up to the summit. According to EBBC discussions with Park Rangers at the Junction, "it is favorable to expect the road to be open on weekends for the project duration, but you should verify online and be alert for loose gravel." The state park is using nearly $2.4 million to repair Summit Road and North Gate on the Walnut Creek side. South Gate road will be open from Danville to the junction. Please visit www.parks.ca.gov or phone (925) 837-2525 for information.
"West of the Hills" Map Update
Derek Liecty is leading the effort to revise the West of the Hills Bicycle Transportation Map and reports that field checking is complete from Carquinez Strait south through Richmond. We intend to progress south through Fremont by this fall. EBBC maps are "by cyclists, for cyclists" and we encourage you to contribute your revisions. Please review the map key and clearly mark suggested changes directly on your map and mail it to EBBC Map Committee (address below) along with your contact information. We will immediately send you a replacement map. If your changes are adopted, you will be immortalized as a "Map Contributor" on the published map.
Memorial Service for Ed Weiss
Ed Weiss, 52, died from injuries sustained when a motocycle crashed into him as he bicycled Oakland's Skyline Boulevard on July 29, 2006. The EBBC is working to support Ed's family and Skyline neighbors who want to end speeding with impunity. Together we wish to see that a fair crash investigation is conducted and that justice be served.A concerned resident on Skyline, Bennett Hall, has put together a tremendous website that includes photos of the crash scene.
A lovely Memorial Service was held on Sunday August 6 at the Piedmont Community Center. The family has asked that contributions be made to the EBBC in honor of Ed Weiss. To donate with a credit card using Acteva, click here.
Bore DEIR
Caltrans released the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) on the "Caldecott Improvement Project" on May 10. Despite the EBBC's long-standing efforts to solicit bicyclists' input and make substantive suggestions on the proposal to add a fourth bore, the 248-page DEIR rebuffs our input by not considering any of the many previous comments we have contributed. Please use our internal google search to review EBBC discussions on the project starting in 1999. We are busy preparing written comments on needed project considerations and mitigations for project impacts, and encourage interested bicyclists to do the same. Comments can be submitted via email by July 31 (note new, extended date); please cc:EBBC. NEW: Due to technical difficulties, comments sent from June 29th through July 5th at noon, email comments sent to Caldecott_Public_Comments@dot.ca.gov were not received. Please resubmit your comments if they were emailed during this timeframe. Click for more info from Caltrans, including a link to the DEIR. Read more on our Campaigns page.
Help Wanted
The Berkeley Bikestation is seeking a bike mechanic/attendant. The Bikestation is a secure bike parking facility in the Downtown Berkeley BART station. In addition to parking bikes, the Bikestation offers bike repairs, sells a variety of bike accessories, and provides transit information. The main job of the mechanic/attendant is to valet park bikes, usually 50-60/day, but other important duties include doing bike repairs and various tasks for the Bicycle-Friendly Berkeley Coalition, which runs the Bikestation. For these reasons, experience fixing bikes is a requirement, as is knowledge of Bay Area transit. Also, one purpose of the Bikestation is to provide an outreach facility for improving conditions for bicyclists. The job has a potential for providing valuable nonprofit experience.
We are seeking someone to work 2-3 seven hour shifts/week. Possible shifts are Monday through Friday 7am-2pm or 2pm-9pm, with regular or flexible days each week. You must be reliable and able to show up on time, and must be able to lift a 40lb. bike above your waist. Pay is $10-12/hr depending on mechanic experience, available immediately. Please email qualifications, availability, interest in position and a phone number to the Bikestation Supervisor Dave Campbell. For more info, go to www.bikestation.org/berkeley.
AB 2444 Would Mitigate Car Impacts
AB 2444 would allow annual vehicle registration fees to be imposed in the Bay Area up to $10 per car to fund programs that mitigate the environmental impacts of cars and manage traffic congestion. AB 2444 directly connects the many impacts of cars with air and water quality mitigation, bicycle and pedestrian safety measures, accident management, public transit operations, and roadway improvements. Download flyer (pdf); get more info on the Transportation and Land Use Coalition website.
EBBC vs. Alameda County
On April 29, when Mt. Hamilton Challenge riders were descending Mines Road, they passed riders on the Devil Mountain Double Century who were climbing Mines Road in the opposite direction. Both rides began outside of Alameda County, but only the Mt. Hamilton Challenge was unfairly singled out by County officials and forced to file a "parade permit." The EBBC is protesting the arbitrary and capricious application of an unreasonable County ordinance. Our formal request for appeal has yet to be scheduled for a hearing by the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. Please join us in urging your elected Supervisor to act on our appeal by amending the parade ordinance to exclude organized bicycle rides.
June EBBC Meeting in San Leandro
EBBC's monthly meeting in June will be held in San Leandro at 1000 San Leandro Blvd, Room 100, across from San Leandro BART beginning at 7:30pm. San Leandro was selected as a one-time special meeting location so that we could bring the guest presentation to a convenient location for our members and guests who live in the 30-mile Oakland to Fremont corridor for the proposed East Bay Greenway. Starting at 8:30pm we will welcome guest speaker Phil Ohlmstead from Urban Ecology who will present images and plans for their exciting East Bay Greenway proposal.
Peñalosa at the Commonwealth Club
From 1998-2001 Enrique Peñalosa was mayor of Bogotá, Columbia. His achievements include: low-cost Bus Rapid Transit; over 120km of Sunday road closures; and construction of 350km of bikeways, including a 32km creekside greenway. In his own words, "[Bogatá] is still far from being a model, we and others were able quickly and radically to transform the attitudes of its citizens towards their city, prioritizing peoplešs happiness over cars' mobility."
Now a consultant to many developing cities, Peñalosa will be the guest speaker at the Commonwealth Club, 595 Market Street, on Monday, June 19. The event starts at 5pm with remarks at 6pm, and concluding reception starts at 7:15 pm. Purchase tickets in advance as space is limited. (Suggested minimum donation is $25/person.) Questions? Contact the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy.
Temescal Street FairHelp demonstrate that Telegraph Avenue can work without cars . . . and offer lots of fun!
Temescal Street Fair on Saturday, June 17th 12-6pm will have around 75 booths with a mix of craft vendors, non-profits, businesses and food and drink. Two stages will offer entertainment for children and adults on Telegraph Ave between 48th and 51st Streets. (Click on poster image (or here) to enlarge.)
EBBC valet bike parking will be located on 48th St next to the Lanesplitter pub (how convenient!). Volunteers are especially appreciated during set-up (11am-noon), but your help anytime during the day can help us build support for bike lanes on Telegraph Avenue.
Bike to Work Day was Thursday, May 18 , and preliminary reports rolling in from East Bay Energizer Stations reveal an increase in participating cyclists from last year. Energizer Stations in Albany and at MacArthur BART ran out of musette bags and/or "I Biked to Work" stickers. Along the Ohlone Greenway in El Cerrito, over 200 cyclists were counted. Oakland's Nomad Cafe counted over 170 cyclists on Shattuck during the morning commute, many too busy to stop in for bags and treats. The event got some good pre- and post-event media coverage, including a several minute broadcast on ABC (under Related Links, click VIDEO: Bike to Work) from Oakland's City Hall Energizer Station (which drew over 330 participants, inspired by the promise of pancakes), which prominently features the EBBC Valet Bike Parking Corral and an interview with Mark Gagliardi, Alameda County Bike Commuter of the Year.BikeAlameda's Bike Education Class
Learn:
- Crash avoidance
- Confidence in traffic
- Rights and responsibilities
- New techniques
- Night riding safety
East Bay Bike Commuters of the Year
The nominations are in and the winners have been selected. Meet the "Bike Commuter of the Year" from Alameda County, Oakland's Mark Gagliardi (pictured with his kids) and Contra Costa County, Richmond's Rob Hawks (pictured with the Sutter Buttes.) Click on their names to read about their feats of sensibility on the 511 website; click on their photos to enlarge.
CarShare B-day
City CarShare's 5th birthday celebration takes place Thursday, June 1, 2006 5:30-8:30pm at boca: The Bar of Contemporary Art, 414 Jessie Street in SF. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Berkeley Principal Transportation Planner Matt Nichols will receive "Golden Fob" awards for their contributions to the effort to reduce car ownership, and increase the livability of our communities. Tickets are $15 for City CarShare members and $30 for non-members, and include food and drink. Learn more about the City CarShare movement, new East Bay locations, and other transportation improvement opportunities in the Bay Area. See website for details.
Thursday, May 18 is the Bay Area's 12th annual Bike to Work Day, an event that promotes bicycling as a healthy, fun, and viable form of transportation.This year, check out:
- Team Bike Challenge: This contest has bicycle commuters recruit their colleagues, friends, and neighbors to bike for transportation during May. Participants form and name five-member teams and register at 511.org. Team members track each day they bicycle. Novice cyclists receive double points; "Big Wheels" get triple points! Register for the Team Bike Challenge at 511.org.
- REGISTER! Don't forget to register and show decision makers that their constituents bicycle!
- Energizer Stations: Find event Energizer Stations throughout the nine-county Bay Area, where cyclists will enjoy refreshments, a musette bag, good will, and camaraderie, at 511.org.
- Berkeley Bike Month: As usual, the Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition is sponsoring a variety of activities throughout the month of May to promote and celebrate bicycling. Get more info at bfbc.org | Download poster (.pdf. 580k)
- Oakland Bike Month: Get information about the City of Oakland's Bike Month activities, including the annual pancakes, parking, and prizes at the plaza on BTWD, at www.oaklandpw.com/btwd. For that extra splash, pedal downtown with your City Councilmember (or staff.) Details on website. (Note poster art by Andy Singer, a longtime contributor to CarBusters Magazine and other publications.)
UC Berkeley Campus Bicycle Plan
The UC Berkeley Campus Bicycle Plan is available for review, with an open comment period through May 8. We strongly suggest that the plan bring UCB up to bicycling standards seen at many other UC campuses by including a relaxation of the notorious "Dismount Zone" at Sproul Plaza. For more information contact the Parking & Transportation Department's Alicia Arellano by email or phone at 510-643-4949 and cc: Jason Meggs.
West CoCoCo Transit Summit
West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee presents Go I-80 Transit Summit 2006. Join in and let your voice be heard!
What is your biggest obstacle to mobility? Financial, Transit Availability? Can you imagine a world without cars? Are you concerned about your environment? Air pollution and global warming? Did you grow up walking and/or biking? What are the transportation implications to health & childhood obesity, #1 health crisis today?
- Date/Time: Thursday, May 11, 2006, 5:30-8:00pm
- Location: Maple Hall, City of San Pablo, 13831 San Pablo Avenue, at Church Lane on AC Transit Line #72
- Information: Call 510.215.3035 or 510.215.3044 or go to www.wcctac.org. Refreshments provided.
Lessons Learned from Fruitvale Transit Village
In 2004, after 15 years in the planning, major construction was completed at the Fruitvale Transit Village. The $70 million project, led by the Unity Council/Fruitvale Development Corp., came out of a community organizing effort to transform the Fruitvale neighborhood from its declining status to one of economic vibrancy. This tour and discussion is an opportunity to get an insider view of lessons learned from this innovative project and future plans to secure its sustainability. Coordinated by the Transportation and Land Use Coalition and led by Gilda Gonzalez, Executive Director, and Jeff Case of the Unity Council.
- Date/Time: Wednesday, May 17, 5:30-7:30pm (preceded by an optional orientation about TALC from 5:00-5:30)
- Location: San Antonio Senior Center, 3301 E 12th Street, Oakland (adjacent to the Fruitvale BART Station)
- Information: www.transcoalition.org/calendar.html or 510-740-3150
California Pedal Power 2006
Save the date! May 1-2, 2006 is Pedal Power 2006, where statewide bicycle advocates converge in Sacramento for advocacy training, to network with other advocates, and to meet directly with their legislators to discuss bicycle issues. Get more info at calpedalpower.org. Sponsored by the California Bicycle Coalition.
17th Annual Go Greenbelt! Ride
The seventeenth annual Go Greenbelt! Bay Area tour will be April 23-29, 2006. A fundraiser for Greenbelt Alliance, the Bay Area's leading land conservation and urban planning nonprofit, the week-long bicycle ride raises funds to protect the Bay Area's farmlands and natural areas by stopping sprawl development and promoting smart growth within city boundaries. Get more info and/or reserve your spot on this popular ride at http://www.greenbelt.org.
Get Ready for Bike to Work Day 2006Thursday, May 18 is the Bay Area's 12th annual Bike to Work Day, an event that promotes bicycling as a healthy, fun, and viable form of transportation. This year, there are two new activities to get Bay Area residents more involved in bicycling:
- Team Bike Challenge: This contest gets bicycle commuters to recruit their colleagues, friends, and neighbors to bike for transportation during May. Participants form and name five-member teams and register at 511.org. Team members track each day on which they bicycle. Novice cyclists receive double points; "Big Wheels" get triple points!. Registration for the Team Bike Challenge is now open at 511.org.
- Bike Commuter of the Year: Do you know someone who is committed to making every day Bike to Work Day? Please share her/his story with the Bay Area Bicycle Coalition (BABC)! BABC is seeking nominations for the 2006 Bike Commuter of the Year. There will be nine winners, one from each of the nine Bay Area counties. Nominations are due on April 16, 2006; go to 511.org to complete the nomination form.
Richmond Greenway Workshop
The Richmond Greenway is proposed to pass through an existing rail tunnel under I-80 to connect to the Ohlone Trail and El Cerrito del Norte BART. It will continue 2-1/2 miles parallel to and north of Ohio Ave along an abandoned rail alignment. A workshop is scheduled on Thursday, April 20, 7-9pm at the MLK Jr Recreation Center, 360 Harbor Way South. Contact Ben Gettleman by email or phone at 415-397-2220.
MTC Connectivity Plan
As part of its continuing effort to stitch together the Bay Area's nearly two dozen transit systems into a seamless, passenger-friendly network, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) is inviting residents throughout the nine-county region to weigh in on its newly released Draft Transit Connectivity Plan. The plan is online in .pdf format at www.mtc.ca.gov. Comments on must be received by MTC no later than 4 p.m., Friday, April 14, 2006. For more information, please contact the MTC Public Information Office at (510) 817-5757.
Women's Cycling Street Skills Clinic
April 8, 9am, Club Sport, Walnut Creek. Learn to ride comfortably, legally, and safely on city streets. This clinic includes in-classroom discussion and on-road skills practice. Topics include:
- Bicyclist and driver rights and responsibilities
- Lane positioning and safe lane changes
- Signaling and turning
- Avoiding hazards
- Anticipating vehicle conflicts
- Making yourself visible and predictable
- Safety gear and accessories
Volunteer opportunities
EBBC needs the help of our members to accomplish our mission. Volunteer opportunities and current needs include:
- Membership Database Coordinator
- Membership Database Assistant
- Newsletter Publishing Assistant
- Web Content Director
- Hazard Elimination Assistant
- Administrative Assistant
Bicycle-based journeys into the heart of the Bay Area
Beginning March 18, 10am-4pm, Cycles of Change is leading a series of nine Saturday field trips, part of Merritt College's Landscape Horticulture Department's curriculum. According to trip leader Grey Kolevzon, "we will travel ancient pathways, follow lost rivers, and learn the hidden stories within the city while visiting some spectacular destinations. Geography, ecology, hydrology, cultural history and other fields will be woven together as we move closer to this place we call home." Enroll online (first come, first serve, limit 25) to guarantee your spot in the class at www.merritt.edu; use class code M1416 in the Landscape Horticulture Dept. (Class #480-O, "Cycles of land use.") Questions? Email Grey or phone him at 510-534-3677.
Oakland Waterfront Development: March 28 Meeting
The Oakland City Council is holding a special meeting on Tuesday, March 28, 6:30pm, at City Hall to discuss the "Oak to 9th" development proposal, which threatens completion of the Bay Trail in Oakland and privatizes acres of public park. EBBC is part of a coalition fighting for the public open space and access mandated by Measure DD, passed by Oakland voters in 2002. Other members of the coalition include Oakland Heritage Alliance, the League of Women Voters of Oakland, former City Councilmember John Sutter, Waterfront Action, public health expert Rajiv Bhatia, Coalition of Advocates for Lake Merritt (CALM), and the Northern Alameda County Regional group of the Sierra Club. To show support for open space and access, please plan to attend the meeting at City Hall (near 14th and Broadway, adjacent to the 12th Street BART Station.)
Bike Swap Meet
Attend the GIANT BAY AREA SWAP MEET, hosted by the Valley Spokesmen at Dublin High School, 8185 Village Parkway, March 26, 1:00-4:00pm. Admission is free. From Dublin/Pleasanton BART take the Iron Horse Trail and turn left on Amador Valley Blvd, right on Brighton Drive, to the school at Village Parkway.
Oakland Mayoral Debate and Bike Activities Featuring Cycles of Change
The Oakland Mayoral Town Hall Q&A is Saturday, March 18th, 11:30am, at St. Lawrence O'Toole Church at 3725 High Street (one block above MacArthur Boulevard). This is a great opportunity for bicyclists to get on the next Oakland Mayor's radar-and show we have strength in numbers! All three candidates are confirmed and the event will be moderated by Cy Musiker of KQED radio. The EBBC will provide free valet bike parking at the event-join us and let the candidates see a sea of bikes! Download flyer (.pdf).
As an added bonus, our affiliated Cycles of Change program will host an open house at their Bret Harte Middleschool youth bike shop immediately after the debate. Bret Harte, 3700 Coolidge at MacArthur, is only a short ride on MacArthur Blvd. from debate. This is an opportunity for parents and youth to mingle in the spacious bike shop's clubhouse atmosphere and meet with staff from Brete Harte, as well as other nearby Cycles of Change programs at Roosevelt and Edna Brewer schools. You will not want to miss this opportunity to acquaint yourself with the dedicated individuals and shop facility that promotes youth bicycle adventures and trains middleschool students to repair bikes. Imaagine your son or daughter asking for permission to ride to Rock Camp on Mt. Diablo or calling out, "who's got the 12 millimeter cone wrench?" Refreshments will be provided by the EBBC.
Infrastructure Bond (SB 1024)
Bicycle and pedestrian access and safety should be a strong component of Senator Perata's proposed Infrastructure Bond (SB 1024). Please let your legislator know! Download a postcard, find your legislator, and mail as described. Early and vigorous support for full implementation of the Bay Area's Regional Bicycle Plan (plus adopted Countywide plans), is needed to ensure that the proposed bond addresses bicycle needs. The postcard also requests that legislators make routine accommodation a reality and allow adopted plans to be eligible to compete for funds allocated to California's transportation infrastructure. Send your postcards today!
Emeryville Transportation Plan
The City of Emeryville has been working on a new Transportation Plan. Members of the Bicycle Advisory Committee are very excited about this plan, as it provides for many bike/ped projects.
To help move the plan forward, cyclists are asked to attend the City Council Meeting, on March 7, 7:15pm, at the Emeryville City Council chambers, 1333 Park Avenue at Hollis, where the plan will be presented to council and the public. You can view the presentation online at www.JohnFricke.com/blueprint. For more info or to comment, contact council member John Fricke, 510-547-0877.
Bike Conferences in March
The League of American Bicyclists is holding its annual summit March 1-3 in Washington DC. This year's theme is "Building Bicycle Friendly Communities." The first and third days feature sessions on advocacy and planning, and the second day brings cyclists to Capitol Hill for a rally and meetings with members of Congress. Click for information and to register.
Velo Mondial 2006, "the world's most comprehensive bicycle planning conference," will be held in Cape Town, South Africa, March 5-10. The objective of the conference is to incorporate the bicycle mode into transport strategies for both rural and urban environments. The theme of Velo Mondial 2006 is "Towards Prosperity," and the conference will address sustainable transport-related issues. To register or for more details, visit www.velomondial2006.com.
36 bike shops now offer discounts to EBBC members
EBBC members get discounts on parts and/or accessories at member shops. Check out our Discounts page, recently updated with the 36 shops and the discounts they offer to EBBC members. To get your discount, clip your membership card from the mailing panel of a current issue of rideOn. Patronize EBBC Supporting Shops and save!
Martinez Celebrates Cycling
The City of Martinez is hosting two bicycling events in the downtown near the Amtrak transit hub on February 18 and 21. EBBC will be providing FREE valet bike parking at both events, plus there is FREE Bicycle Shuttle Service across the Bencia-Martinez bridge (schedule.)
Martinez Celebrates Cycling, Saturday, February 18. Includes:
- Live Healthy Fair, 10am-5pm. Visit with healthy lifestyle businesses & vendors. Music, food, fun! EBBC will provide Free Valet Bike Parking on Main St.
- Alhambra Valley Bike Tour, 8am-10am. Two levels. First 250 to register receive a free T-shirt. Bike club with the most members to sign up will receive VIP viewing of the Stage 2 Start and 1st lap of the Tour of California.
- Bay Front Classic Criterium, 10:30am-4pm. Cash & prize awards. For more information visit contract the City of Martinez at (925) 372-3547.
Not Very SMART
Just in time for Thanksgiving, SMART (Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit) has
unveiled a turkey, in the form of a 700-page EIR for its proposed North Bay passenger
rail service. While SMART is to be commended for incorporating bicycle access into its planning, the project has some very serious flaws. Read a critique of the plan here.BFBC turns 10 / SFBC Winterfest 2005
Please join the Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition for a holiday-themed birthday celebration on Saturday, December 10, 7pm-11pm at the Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian-Universalists, 1924 Cedar St at the corner of Bonita, in North Berkeley. We'll have a birthday piñata for the kids to smash, cake for all, beer and wine, raffle prizes (see below) and a dance band to help burn off some carbs. And of course attended bike parking to keep your two-wheeler secure. Suggested donation is $20 but no one turned away for lack of funds.
Donations are being accepted for our Raffle Prizes and Live Auction. To donate a prize, please contact us. Your donation will help BFBC continue its efforts to make Berkeley the most "bicycle-friendly' town in the Bay Area. Get more info at BFBC's events page.
For more bicycle advocacy holiday fun, check out the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition Winterfest 2005, December 4, 6:00-10:30pm at SomArts Gallery at 934 Brannan at 8th St. Details at http://www.sfbike.org/winterfest
Bike lanes calm traffic on Marin Ave.
Marin Avenue in Albany and Berkeley has received the classic road diet, reconfigured from two traffic lanes in each direction to one traffic lane and a bicycle lane in each direction with a center turn lane. There may be a little more striping and signage to complete the planned work, but the project is largely done. According to Nick Pilch, and EBBC member from Albany who helped campaign for the road diet, "initial reaction is very positive, both to the car traffic flow and the bike lanes. Please give it a try!"
Openings on the Board of Directors
In the fall of each year, the EBBC elects a Board of Directors to serve for the following year. This year, we are soliciting nominees for two open seats. If you are interested in serving on the board, or know someone who would be a good candidate, please contact Rick Rickard by email or phone at 510-482-5968. Nominations will be submitted at the October General Meeting (October 18), and the election will take place at the November meeting (November 15). Those who serve on the EBBC board are expected to:
- Serve as an example for others in the community
- Represent the interests of the EBBC (to promote bicycling as an everyday means of transportation and recreation)
- Consult with the Chair, Executive Director, or seek Board consensus, before formally expressing an EBBC position
- Attend all Board and General Membership meetings
If you're not interested in serving on the board, but have other skills to offer, please review our other volunteer opportunities (see below).
Dia de Los Valet Bike Parking
EBBC is providing valet bike parking at the Fruitvale Bike Station for the annual Oakland Dia de los Muertos festival sponsored by the Unity Council. The event is Sunday, October 30, and we need volunteers to assist between 10am and 5pm. Parking bikes is a fun way to meet other EBBC members and schmooze with other bicycle enthusiasts. We will also be signing up cyclists to use the bike station. To volunteer, please contact EBBC board member Rick Rickard (510-482-5968).SB 523 vetoed
SB 523, which would have maintained the current level of funding in the Caltrans Bicycle Transportation Account, and passed the State Legislature, was terminated by Governator on 9/29/05. This is a serious setback to communities trying to construct commuter-serving bike projects: now, there will be a measly $5 million/year statewide for bicycle projects. Send an email to Ahnold. Tell him that his disregard for bicyclists, health, and the environment does not reflect your values. (PS. He also vetoed SB 748 which would have prohibited tolls for pedestrians and cyclists on state bridges.)
Positive press about bicyclists!
Thanks for EBBC member David Coolidge for noting some rare, positive press about bicycling in the major media. David writes: "The current edition (September 26) of Newsweek has two items which are very much pro-bike and really constructive. The title of the 'My Turn' feature (Page 16) is 'My Cat Takes More Drugs Than I Do.' It's by an 87 year old man who runs, rides bikes, has a sex life, and attributes it all to sensible diet and minimum ten miles a day on his bicycle. (A quote: 'One of my strategies for avoiding health-care costs is to stay healthy, and that means riding regularly.') Back on page 68 there's a brief article ('Getting in Gear') on bicycle commuting, that outlines all the well-known problems first-time commuters encounter (route, baggage, parking, security, dress, hygiene) and suggests good ways to cope with each. It reads as though the author truly knows whereof she speaks. It's accompanied by a photo of a guy in full office attire, with a bike helmet and a messenger bag, riding in traffic as if he knows what he's about. Short, but well done and very much to the point, includes links to the League and other authoritative sites that the neophyte commuter will find useful."
New Bike Shop Program/discounts
EBBC members get discounts on parts and/or accessories of up to 15% at member shops. Member shops are listed on our Shops page and are provided with a window decal with the EBBC logo. To get your discount, clip your mailing label from a current issue of rideOn. Patronize EBBC Supporting Shops and save!
City of Alameda Draft Circulation Plan
Alameda's DRAFT Multimodal Circulation Plan will be discussed at City Hall on Wednesday, October 12, at 7:30 pm in the City Council Chambers. The Multimodal Circulation Plan will form the "backbone" of the City's first-ever Transportation Master Plan, which is being developed by the Transportation Commission. It will determine the ways in which Alameda's streets and roads will be evaluated and managed for different kinds and volumes of traffic. The plan is available for review at www.ci.alameda.ca.us/tmp/mm_circ_plan.html
Berkeley bike-related jobs available
Bikestation: Be part of an exciting team at an exciting time: the Berkeley Bikestation! You'll be an important part of supporting bicycling in Berkeley both by keeping bicycles safe from theft, and by giving direct support and advice to everyday bicyclists of all persuasions. Job requirements include the ability to lift lighter bicycles onto racks, basic computer and retail skills, and the ability to perform minor repairs (professional bike mechanic positions and manager position also available). Most important, you must share the vision of increasing the amount of bicycling and the quality of the bicycling experience in Berkeley and beyond. Preference goes to bicycle advocates. Flexible schedule. Competitive pay. Opportunity for advancement.
Applications available at the Bikestation, located in the Downtown Berkeley BART station (south end of concourse level). Please bring any resume and your references. To learn more about the Bikestation, come by or check out http://bikestation.org/berkeley/. The Bikestation in Berkeley is a project of the nonprofit Bicycle-Friendly Berkeley Coalition.
BFBC Executive manager: The Bicycle-Friendly Berkeley Coalition seeks an Executive Manager. For more info, see job posting (.pdf format).
Bike tour of solar homes
There will be a Bike Tour of Solar Homes, sponsored by the Northern California Solar Energy Association, Saturday, October 1. Meet at 10am at Mosswood Park, MacArthur and Broadway, in Oakland. The tour will visit 5 or 6 homes that have installed various types of solar energy. The course is flat and will be cycled at a slow pace, with refreshments at almost every stop. Join in for a truly environmental tour of an environmental movement to solar energy.
Maintaining access to BARTThe EBBC is fighting to guarantee that no matter which Route 84 proposal Fremont, Union City and the Alameda County Transportation Authority agree upon, we will not lose the bike lanes on Decoto Road leading to Union City BART.
Sept 22 is World CarFree Day
International World CarFree Day is this Thursday, September 22. To be inspired and learn about events around the globe (including those in Oakland and Berkeley) go to worldcarfree.net.
Emeryville General Plan Update
Tuesday, September 27, there will be a meeting on pedestrian and bicycle travel, This is one in a series of panel discussions on various "hot topics" being held as part of Emeryville's General Plan Update process. The meeting starts at 6:30m in the Council Chambers at Old Town Hall, 1333 Park Avenue at Hollis. For more info, contact project manager Deborah Diamond by email or at 510-596-4303.
September Membership Meeting
Plan to attend our September meeting. The board will meet from 7:00-7:30, and the general membership meeting is til 8:30, after which Matt Todd from the Alameda County Congestion Management Agency will discuss the county bike plan revision, new pedestrian plan, routine accommodation, and Caldecott Tunnel bike access and mitigation proposals to the 4th bore project. (Feel free to attend all or part of any meeting.) The meeting will be held at Oakland's Rockridge Branch Library.
Marin Avenue road diet
Albany and Berkeley will be coordinating the restriping of Marin Ave, to allow for bike lanes, two through traffic lanes and a middle left-turn only lane. Slated to begin in early August, work will be completed in time for the opening day of school, Wednesday, August 31. For more information, see the July issue of rideOn.
Fremont Bicycle Master Plan
The next step for the Fremont Bicycle Master Plan (BMP) is a Planning Commission meeting this Thursday, August 11. For more info: City of Fremont website.
Support needed NOW for state bicycle funds
We can be grateful for State Senator Tom Torlakson's leadership in co-authoring SB 523 to maintain the Statewide Bicycle Transportation Account at current funding levels. Despite Torlakson's stature as Chair of the Senate Transportation & Housing Committee, SB 523 received some close votes from opponents who question the need for State spending on bicycle transportation as it moved through the Senate. In today's tight budget climate, legislators are inclined to target any spending measure.
On June 29, the bill was placed on suspense by the Assembly Appropriations Committee. We still need local Assembly Members to help champion the bill. Please write to your State Assembly leaders to request their support and leadership. You can help them convince other legislators by expressing your appreciation for bikeway projects in their districts, or point to remaining gaps in the planned bikeway network. Click for a sample letter and Assembly Member information. For additional information, please go to the California Bicycle Coalition's legislation page.
EBBC at the Stroll
An annual tradition, EBBC will be providing valet bike parking service at the Solano Stroll, September 11, 10am-7pm, 1800 Solano Ave. This year, we will be raffling a Breezer bicycle! Please stop by for a raffle ticket, to join, buy a map or T-shirt or to renew your membership. The Bicycle-Friendly Berkeley Coalition will be leading family rides to the stroll from the North Berkeley and El Cerrito BART Stations. For more info, go to www.bfbc.org/events.
BART strike?
For information about commute alternatives in the event of a strike, go to http://www.bart.gov/news/features/features20050626.asp.
Two-wheeled fun on the 4th in Berkeley or Alameda ...or both!
4th of July at the Berkeley Marina is a great opportunity to ride over the Berkeley Bike/Ped Bridge and join in the fun at the waterfront starting at noon. The EBBC will provide free valet bike parking so you can explore the trails, take a bay cruise, and watch the fireworks. Please call 530-3444 to volunteer to help us park bikes recruit new members.
Participate in the City of Alameda's annual 4th of July parade. Bike Alameda will have an entry open to all riders and all bike types. The parade starts at 10:00 am, with entrants lined up along Lincoln Ave. between Park St. and Grand. Please join the ride and help to demonstrate that Alameda is a great place to bike! Click for more details.
BikeAlameda on parade! (Click to enlarge.)
Bike to Work Day
San Leandro's Bike to Work Day Energizer Station was staffed by (picture, L to R)
Chris Hwang, Mayor Sheila Young, Councilmember Orval "OB" Badger, and
Susan Sullivan. A record total of 56 East Bay Energizer Stations
reported a surprising turnout despite the soggy weather. Even the press was
impressed, with the SF Chronicle publishing images of smiling Cyclecide
performers from the downtown Oakland noontime performance (rather than the expected
shot of SF Mayor Gavin Newsom.) Read article.
Bike plan update meetings
The City of Fremont is rescheduling the final Bicycle Master Plan (BMP) Public Meeting from May 18 to Wednesday, June 1. This third and final public meeting/workshop for the Draft Bicycle Master Plan will be a combined meeting of both the Bicycle/Pedestrian Technical Advisory Committee (BPTAC) and the Recreation Commission (acting as the Bicycle Advisory Committee - BAC).
The City of Oakland will hold two public meetings on the update of its Bicycle Master Plan:
- Wednesday, June 8, Lakeside Park Garden Center, 666 Bellevue Ave.
- Thursday June 9, Arroyo Viejo Rec Center, 7701 Krause Ave.
May is Fitness Month. Bike with Senator Torlakson
WHAT: The public is invited to join Senator Tom Torlakson and others to experience the magnificent bikeways in CoCoCo county, from the scenic Delta to the rich farmlands of East County, to the spectacular foothills of Mt. Diablo. The ride will be eight miles.
WHY: To celebrate fitness month, to discuss the State Budget, and legislation including Senator Torlakson's SB 523 to preserve the existing funding level for Bicycle Transportation Account.
WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, May 28. Meet at 9 am at Heather Farms, 301 N. San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek (Directions.)
You can also join Senator Torlakson when he rides with the Delta Pedalers on May 15 and May 22. (Details.)
Help preserve statewide bicycle funding
In 1997 the new Bicycle Transportation Account (BTA) helped build the first "road diet" (traffic lane converted to bike lanes) on Bancroft in San Leandro. The BTA is currently at $7.2 million per year, which is approximately $1 per year for every Californian who bicycles. Unfortunately, the BTA is scheduled to decrease to $5 million a year in July 2006. You can help us preserve the existing funding level by writing your support for Senate Bill 523 (Torlakson-D/Maldonado-R). The bill is sponsored by the California Bicycle Coalition (CBC).
On April 5, SB 523 passed out of the Transportation Housing Committee 9-4-1! If you haven't already done so, please send a signed letter or fax with a return address to the bill authors, Senators Tom Torlakson (fax: 916/445-2527) and Abel Maldonado (fax: 916-445-8081), and to local Senator Carol Migden (fax: 916/445-4722) in support of funding for bicycle facilities. Address mail to State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 95814. For more information and a sample letter of support, please go to the CBC's legislation page.
"Complete the Streets" Action Alert!
Contact your senator by May 10. Click for more info.
Safe Routes to Transit Work Session
Developing Strong Funding Applications
EBBC and the Transportation and Land Use Coalition invite all Alameda County transportation planners, engineers, fundraisers and community reps to a lunchtime work session on the new $20 million Safe Routes to Transit program and its potential for funding ped/bike projects in Alameda County. This meeting immediately precedes the CMA's ACTAC monthly meeting next door in the CMA's offices.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 3, noon-1:20pm
WHERE: 250 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Suite 3327, 3rd Floor, Dimond Conference Room
Lunch provided! For more info, and to RSVP click here.
Urban Ecology Alameda Point Tour
Learn about the fascinating history, and future, of the former Alameda Naval Air Station. This easy-paced bicycle tour will explore the redevelopment process and examine what roles housing, transportation, environmental mitigation, and historic preservation will play in the transformation of this Bay Area landmark. Get first-hand knowledge from the city staff, developers, and project consultants that are leading this unique and complex redevelopment effort.
When: Saturday, April 23, 10:15am-1:30pm
Cost: FREE for Urban Ecology members, $5 for non-members
Where: Alameda Ferry Terminal, 2990 Main Street
Bring your helmet, sunscreen, a bag lunch, and plenty of water. For more information, please contact Phil Olmstead at Urban Ecology, 510-251-6330. RSVP by sending your contact information to
Help support transit and housing choices
EBBC is part of a coalition of transportation, housing, and open space protection groups working to ensure that future Bay Area transit stations will be surrounded by livable, walkable communities with bicycle and pedestrian routes. This coalition, led by the Transportation and Land Use Coalition (TALC), has been lobbying public officials. Now they need to hear from you!
You can sign on as a supporter of the Livable Communities Platform and/or write a letter to the Joint Policy Committee of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. Read about the Livable Communities Platform and view a sample letter. Also read TALC's latest report, It Takes a Transit Village, that offers in-depth recommendations for Transit Opportunity Zones to save the Bay Area billions of dollars and ease the housing shortage.
EBBC East of the Hills map now available
EBBC's East of the Hills Bicycle Map, updated and improved, is now available at a bike shop near you! See the Maps page for more details.
Bicycle Recycle Bill, AB1103
Youth Bicycle Adventure, Community Bike Shop Programs, Library Bikes
Discussion of the recently introduced Bicycle Recycle Bill, AB1103 (Karnette, Long Beach), has directed considerable interest toward afterschool Youth Bicycle Programs that would benefit from the bill. Marin's Trips for Kids program, the East Bay's Tinker's Workshop in Berkeley, and multiple Cycles of Change afterschool programs could all become Bicycle ReCycle Centers and offer Library Bikes to the community. To learn more about Arcata's model Library Bike Program, on which AB1103 was modeled, go to www.arcata.com/greenbikes.
You can get involved in this innovative, community-based program by volunteering to help fix bikes and by donating repairable bikes. Bicycle donors receive tax deductable receipts from the EBBC.
To learn about the exciting Cycles of Change youth bicycle adventure programs in store for 2005, including a ride to Tijuana, and location information about East Bay Youth Programs, please click here.
2005 TALC Annual Summit: Got Sustainability?
TALC's annual transportation and land-use summit, Saturday, April 9, 2005 at Laney College in Oakland, is now open for registration. Cost is $10 and includes breakfast, lunch, and materials. EBBC encourages members to attend, and provides valet bike parking for the event. For more info and to register, go to the TALC website.
Walk/Bike California 2005 conference
Call for presentations, deadline March 24
The second biennial Walk/Bike California Conference will be held September 14-16, 2005 in Ventura. The conference program committee is inviting potential speakers to submit abstracts for consideration by Thursday, March 24, 2005. Conference session topics should fit in one of the following six categories: Active and Healthy Communities; Bicycle Facilities; Pedestrian Facilities; Trail Facilities; Politics, Advocacy and Culture; and Education and Outreach Programs.For more information, or to submit an abstract, please go to the Walk/Bike California 2005 website. The conference is hosted by the California Bicycle Coalition and the City of Ventura in association with California Walks.
Berkeley Critical Mass turns 12
Friday March 11 is the 12th anniversary of the Berkeley Critical Mass ride. This ride started looong ago on March 8, 1993 (International Women's Day). People showed up with all kinds of carfree costumes and signs; there were over 80 of us and the ride wound joyously through the streets for hours. Celebrate the long and dynamic history of Berkeley Critical Mass and have fun while making a visible statement:
- When: Friday, March 11 (every second Friday), after 6:00pm
- Where: Meet at Downtown Berkeley BART (Constitution Plaza)
After the ride, there will be a celebration at the Long Haul featuring vegan chocolate cake, dancing, and general craziness. Door prizes and the first annual Wingnut Nobel Prize for Lifetime Achievement award will be presented. The Long Haul is located in Berkeley at 3124 Shattuck Ave., 2 blocks from Ashby BART, Across from La Peña Cultural Center.
BikeAlameda to hire for valet bike program
BikeAlameda has two new paid positions to work in their valet bike parking program: Valet Bike Parking Site Supervisor and alet Bike Parking Program Coordinator. These part-time positions are for April-October 2005 and center on 13 weekend events. For more information, please go to www.bikealameda.org/event/valet/jobs/. Contact BikeAlameda President Lucy Gigli if you are interested.
Shimano brake cable recall
Shimano has issued a recall for a small number of defective brake cables for road bikes. Only separate replacement cables (not cables that were sold with parts groups or new bikes) are being recalled, and of those, only cables shipped between certain dates. For more information about the specific cables being recalled, go to the Shimano website; there is also good information on the Chain Reaction (bike dealer) website.
Regional bikeway on Route 84 threatened
The Alameda County Transportation Authority (ACTA) has scheduled public meetings in March to present and solicit comments on the proposed alignment of Route 84 through Fremont and Union City.
The project would involve constructing a new four-lane parkway between Mission Boulevard and Paseo Padre Parkway along a modified portion of what is known as the "Historic Parkway Alignment"--part of the route identified as the preferred alternative during environmental review. The balance of the modified project proposes widening Decoto Road to six lanes from Paseo Padre Parkway to Cabrillo Drive.
Fremont meeting:
- When: Wednesday, March 2, 6:00-8:30pm
- Where: American High School Cafeteria, 36300 Fremont Boulevard
- When: Thursday, March 10, 6:00-8:30pm
- Where: Kennedy Community Center Assembly Hall, 1333 Decoto Road
Embarcadero Bikestation under new management
The Bikestation at the Embarcadero BART has reopened under new management on the mezzanine level of the Embarcadero BART Station. The new service provided by the nonprofit Bikestation features their secure access and Global Membership System which will provide extended hours and locations of service. Parking is free during staffed hours, 7:30-9:30am and 3:00-7:00pm, and users can take advantage of the newly-available retail and repair services. Additionally, members may access secure bicycle parking during all BART operating hours and may utilize any Bikestation on the network.
Hold the urban limit line!
Important Contra Costa meeting
from Greenbelt Alliance--On Saturday, February 26, elected officials will meet for a finalnegotiation on Contra Costa's Urban Limit Line. Over 6,300 acres of natural areas and working farms are on the chopping block. Moving the line will mean more traffic, more air pollution, and less open space. Our elected officials need to HOLD THE LINE at their next meeting!
- When: Saturday, February 26, 9:30-10:30am
- Where: Walnut Creek Civic Park Community Center, 1375 Civic Drive
Letters to the editor are another important way to make your voice heard! Tell the Contra Costa Times that we need a tight line for a better Contra Costa. Send your letters to: letters@cctimes.com. For more information, contact David Reid at Greenbelt Alliance.
Safe Routes to Transit kick-off meeting
Join
EBBC and the Transportation and Land Use Coalition (TALC) to kick-off the regional Safe Routes to Transit (SR2T) program to improve access to transit for cyclists and pedestrians. SR2T is being funded as part of the voter-approved Measure 2 that raised tolls on Bay Area bridges to $3.- When: Friday, February 25, 1-5pm
- Where: MetroCenter (101 8th Street, Oakland, across from the Lake Merritt BART station)
Embarcadero Bikestation grand opening
The Bikestation at the Embarcadero BART will celebrate its grand opening on Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 12:30pm on the mezzanine level of the Embarcadero BART Station. Come learn of the new services, get free stuff, and hear the dignataries praise secure bike parking.
The nonprofit Bikestation has taken over operation of the bike parking facility; the new service will feature their secure access and Global Membership System which will provide extended hours and locations of service. Parking is free during staffed hours, 7:30-9:30am and 3:00-7:00pm, and users can take advantage of the newly-available retail and repair services. Additionally, members may access secure bicycle parking during all BART operating hours and may utilize any Bikestation on the network.
Oakland--Two Measure DD/Waterfront project open houses in February
Lake Merritt Projects Open House
View detailed designs of the following projects: Lakeshore Drive and Lakeside Drive Pedestrian and Bicycle Paths, El Embarcadero Greenlink, Municipal Boathouse
- When: Wednesday, February 23, 6:00-9:00pm
- Where: Lake Merritt Sailboat House, 66 Bellevue Avenue
- For more information contact: Kerry Jo Ricketts Ferris, Project Manager, Waterfront Openspace, (510) 238-1628
View detailed designs of a six projects ranging from east to west Oakland.
- When: Thursday, February 24, 4:30-6:30pm
- Where: Where: Jack London Aquatic Center, Estuary Park, 115 Embarcadero Street, between Oak Street and 5th Avenue
- For more information contact: Diane Tannenwald, Project Coordinator, (510) 238-6386. Click for an online version of the Oakland Waterfront Trail Study.
Kryptonite Lock Update
The revelation that Krytonite u-locks could be picked with the barrel of a BIC pen shook the cycling world in mid-September. In response, Kryptonite has instituted a lock exchange program. To exchange your lock, go to the Kryptonite website, complete their online form (have your lock model and key number ready), and Kryptonite will exchange your lock with a comparable non-tubular cylinder lock. Before locks ship in October, cyclists should take extra care protecting their bikes. Many riders are using multiple locks. If your work or residence bans bikes indoors, ask that they permit your bike inside until Kryptonite replaces your lock.Traffic Calming on Marin Ave.
The Berkeley City Council on January 25, 2005 approved the proposed extension of the bike lanes planned for Marin Avenue. The City of Albany had already approved the sensible reconfiguration of their lengthier portion of the current speedway. Such "road diets" offer a proven engineering solution to speeding that no level of enforcement can match. Lower traffic speeds and bike lanes will enhance the access and safety of pedestrians and bicyclists on Marin Ave.
First Oakland Bike Station at Fruitvale BART
On November 1, 2004, the Bike Station at the Fruitvale BART Transit Village opened for operation, M-F, 6am-8pm, and Saturdays, 10am-6:30pm. The attended, indoor facility, with a 200+ bicycle capacity, is FREE on a first-come, first-served basis, and offers a full-service repair station! To expedite bike station use, go to www.bartbikes.com to download the Registration Form and bring it along when you park the first time.EBBC Retreat Set for January 22-23, All EBBC Members Welcome
We've just reeled in the best EBBC Retreat resort location yet. Nestled on the lazy banks of Steamboat Slough, Snug Harbor is a quiet, off-the-beaten track, secluded getaway tucked away on Ryer Island (oh boy, a ferry ride!), north of Rio Vista. It offers a comfortable, family-friendly resort atmosphere for cyclists and anglers alike, and is the nicest lodging on the Delta. Bring your fishing pole (and license) 'cause the large striper are a jumpin. Please join us! Read more ...
Union City Bike/Ped Plan Workshop
The Union City Planning Commission will be holding a work session as part of the Union City Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan process. This work session will focus on the goals and policies for the proposed General Plan Amendment. Participation by interested citizens is encouraged.
Staff reports and copies of the proposed goals and policies are available at the Economic and Community Development Department.
The work session will be held at the regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting:
- Thursday, January 20, 2005,7:00 p.m.
- City Council Chambers, City Hall
- 34009 Alvarado Niles Road (from BART, take Decoto to Alvarado)
Protest Termination of Benicia Bridge Shuttle
On August 15, 2004, the bike/ped shuttle between Benicia and Martinez was terminated by Caltrans with no public input and only 2 weeks notice. Caltrans said the shuttle was unnecessary. However, with at least 4 more years until the bike/ped path on the Martinez Bridge is completed, Caltrans has severed the only transit link between those cities, neglecting its obligation to provide access for bicyclists and pedestrians.
Caltrans staff claims the Benicia Transit service to Pleasant Hill BART is an alternative, despite the fact that this service first stops at Sun Valley Mall, over 5 miles from Martinez. Needless to say, this is not a valid alternative, adding over an hour to trips between Martinez and Benicia (and with no service on Sundays).
EBBC has joined the Bay Area Bicycle Coalition in asking Caltrans to either reinstated the service (and market it better) or provide a direct, bike-friendly, transit service between the cities. If you have used or support the shuttle, please write to the BCDC Commissioners. (See BABC website for sample letter.)
Embarcadero BART Bike Station
From BART staff: The Embarcadero BART Bike Station, modeled after a successful Bike Station facility in Seattle, was recently upgraded with security features and a membership access system. The Bike Station now provides FREE, attended bicycle parking during peak hours (7:30-9:30am and 3:00-7:00pm), no membership is required. To use the Bike Station off-peak, there is no attendant and a membership ($20/year) and usage fee ($1 daily or $96/year) is required. Membership includes a key to allow bicyclists to access the Bike Station whenever the BART Station is open. The facility will be accessible to members for a greater number of hours and an attendant will still be available when usage is the highest. Questions? Contact BART.
Alameda County Bike/Ped Master Plan Survey
The Alameda County Public Works Agency is updating its Pedestrian Master Plan and Bicycle Master Plan Update. Complete and submit a .pdf format survey to improve ped/bike access and safety in the unincorporated areas of Alameda County.
Submit Comments on Highway Widening
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) is accepting public comment on the widening of Highway 4 between Loveridge Road in Pittsburg and Highway 160 in Antioch until November 23. At the public hearing on October 21, staff indicated that there would NOT be complete pedestrian and bicycle access on each of the streets that cross the freeway. Current plans are that the "A" Street crossing would have a sidewalk and a bike lane on only one side of the street, but that all other crossings would have a shoulder and a sidewalk on each side. Please advise the CCTA that EVERY surface street crossing of the freeway MUST accommodate the safe passage of pedestrians and bicyclists. Email or write Susan Miller, Contra Costa Transportation Authority, 3478 Buskirk Avenue, Suite 100, Pleasant Hill CA 94523. EBBC board member and Pittsburg resident Ole Ohlson states, "We're going to be stuck with whatever gets built. It behoves us to make sure that what we receive will be something with which we can live."
Fremont Bicycle Master Plan Survey
Fremont is in the process of preparing a Bicycle Master Plan. The plan will identify ways to enhance and expand the existing network of bike lanes, routes and paths; connect gaps in the system; and provide improvements such as bike parking, signage, and lane markings to encourage people to bike more. Fremont city staff have prepared a survey to help them understand what bicycling improvements people want and prefer. The survey form is available in .pdf format on Fremont's web site. Survey responses are requested as soon as possible, but no later than Wednesday December 1, 2004.
Alameda County PWA Survey
The Alameda County Public Works Agency is developing a Pedestrian Master Plan and updating its Bicycle Master Plan to improve pedestrian and bicycle access and safety in the unincorporated areas of Alameda County County. Complete a survey (.pdf format) to help the County better understand walking and bicycling issues.
Street Skills Safety Courses, November 10 & 12
You know how to ride a bike–now learn to drive one (for only 20 bucks!) Street Skills is a bicycle safety class for experienced and beginning cyclists, bike commuters, parents who bike with their kids, and any cyclist who wants to get around town safely. You'll enjoy cycling more when you are comfortable riding in traffic. Pre-registration is required. November's classes are being held in Berkeley. Go to our Bike Safety page for more info.
Union City Bike/Ped Workshop
The City of Union City is holding a public workshop as part of its Bike/Ped Master Plan update process. The workshop will allow the City to get input from residents and businesses on bicycling, walking, and safe routes to school issues in Union City.
- Date/Time: Wednesday, November 10, 2004, 7:00pm
- Location: City Council Chambers, City Hall, 34009 Alvarado-Niles Road
- More info: Joan Malloy, (510) 675-5327
Learn About BART Board Candidates
This November, bicyclists have a great opportunity to elect a progressive, multi-model oriented BART board of directors. Three BART board seats are up for grabs in the East Bay, those in: District 1 (central Contra Costa County), District 3 (Berkeley, San Leandro), and District 5 (Livermore Valley). EBBC surveyed the eight candidates for BART board positions, asking them questions about bicycle access, secure bike parking, and safer routes to BART stations. All candidates for Districts 1 and board seats responded to our survey. The candidates for District 5, Pete Snyder and Zoyd Luce declined to respond. Here's what the responding candidates had to say (.pdf format).
October 27: Two Oakland Public Meetings
The City of Oakland is asking for public input twice on the same night, Wednesday, October 27.
- H. J. Kaiser Auditorium, 10 10th Street, 4:30-7:30pm; the City will unveil the proposed Measure DD-funded redesign of Lake Merritt's 12th Street Dam (aka "the world's shortest freeway") with a presentation at 6:00pm.
- Beebe Memorial Church, Telegraph Ave. between 38th and 40th streets, 7:00pm; the City is holding a community planning workshop for pedestrian improvements on Telegraph Avenue (20th St. through Claremont Ave.) Veteran neighborhood activist Joyce Roy says, "It will be up to participants to make this more than an exercise in picking wallpaper, furniture and lighting for a corridor and make it an opportunity for place-making."
Hazard Reporting Upgraded
EBBC has made a major upgrade to the EBBC Online Hazard Report system. The new web-based system features a full-blown database backend with automated email. We need beta-testers to play around with the new system, to see if there are any glitches. If you have been procrastinating about sending in a Hazard Report, then now might be a good time to do that by trying out the new system. You can do that by going to hazards.ebbc.org.
Secure, Accessible Bike Parking
Imagine joining a "club" to get an electronic key that could unlock any vacant locker located anywhere in the Bay Area. Locker assignment to single users will eventually go the way of the dodo bird. After all, does Safeway reserve a parking spot for each shopper? Like Safeway, we want to maximize the utility of our parking resources. Bike lockers need not remain under utilized while the hoards of those who don't rent a locker must continually face the risk of theft. All bicyclists who obtain electronic keys will have access to any unoccupied bicycle lockers.
Steven Grover, the developer of the elocker, will be the EBBC's guest speaker at our October 19 meeting. Join us and learn about the beautiful El Cerrito Plaza BART elockers, in addition to elocker installations at other stations. We will also discuss ideas to expand the use of card-key cages and elockers using Safe Routes to Transit (SR2T) funds ($20m) from the recently passed bridge toll increase.
Fremont Bicycle Master Plan
The City of Fremont is currently preparing a Bicycle Master Plan and holding a public meeting to afford residents an opportunity for residents to ask questions and provide comments on bicycling issues in Fremont.
- Where: Fremont City Offices, 39550 Liberty Street, Niles Room
- When: Wednesday, October 20, 7-9pm
Marin Avenue Public Meeting
Help us make Marin Avenue in Albany and Berkeley more bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly and SAFE! Advocate for bike lanes at the following public meeting:
- October 21, 2004, 7:00pm, Berkeley Transportation Commission, 1901 Hearst Street, Berkeley.
Building a Better Alameda--Candidate Forum on Transportation, Housing and Land Use
What will Alameda look like in 10 years? Will it maintain the vibrant, diverse atmosphere of "old" Alameda, or become just another suburb? Will the next City Council make the right choices about housing, transportation and land use? At Candidate Forum on Transportation, Housing and Land Use, candidates for Alameda City Council will be asked to share their opinions on Improving transportation choices for bicycles, pedestrians and transit users, as well as cars and other issues:
- Where: City Hall, 2263 Santa Clara Avenue, City Council Chambers (3rd floor)
- When: Wednesday, October 20, 7:30-9:00pm
Berkeley City Council Election Forum
Issues to be covered include: Smart Growth and Density; Bus Rapid Transit on Telegraph Avenue; Vista College transportation mitigation funds; daylighting of creeks and transfer of development rights; bicycle and pedestrian safety and facilities; Peak Oil and an energy constrained future; creation of carfree spaces and housing; and more.
- Where: Berkeley Community Media, 2239 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Studio A
- When: Saturday, October 9, 2-4pm
CoCo County Town Hall Forum in Concord--CANCELLED
Supervisor Mark DeSaulnier's previously scheduled Town Hall Forum to address transportation and traffic issues has been cancelled.
Pollution. Solution.
The map above (click for larger version and key) shows unhealthy levels of ozone pollution concentrated in the Livermore Valley on July 17, 2003. Strict California air pollution standards are regularly exceeded East of the Hills; fewer days exceed the more lenient Federal standards. In partnership with BART and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, EBBC will provide attended bike parking at BART stations on "Spare the Air" Days, those days identified as having dangerous levels of ozone. This is a good chance to inspire friends to bike to work. Spread the word!
New Alameda Walk Bike Map
BikeAlameda has created its first ever bicycling and walking map. The project is the culmination of a year-long all-volunteer effort. Sponsor and advertiser contributions allow BikeAlameda to distribute the map for free. Nice work, BikeAlameda!
Hazard Reporting Upgraded
EBBC has made a major upgrade to the EBBC Online Hazard Report system. Whereas the old online form required delivery by carrier pigeon, the new web-based hazard reporting system features a full-blown database backend with automated email. Features include:
- Automatic email notification about any progress on fixing a reported problem
- Search hazards reported in your neighborhood or in other areas of interest
- Attach digital photos of the scene to your report
- Unique web address assigned to each hazard report, very handy to include in your letters to public works.
We need beta-testers to play around with the new system, to see if there are any glitches. If you have been procrastinating about sending in a Hazard Report, then now might be a good time to do that by trying out the new system. You can do that by going to http://hazards.ebbc.org.
Support Bike Lanes on Telegraph
On February 7, EBBC volunteers outreached to cyclists at the MacArthur BART Station, and got 106 postcards signed by local residents/cyclists/pedestrians in support of bike lanes on Telegraph Ave. which were sent to Oakland City Council member Jane Brunner's office on Thursday, February 12, emphasizing that this number of postcards was gathered in just one afternoon.
You can help by getting more postcards signed, noticing upcoming public workshops and hearings, and putting up posters in stores along Telegraph and in bike shops. Oakland cyclists should keep the pressure on the City of Oakland to finish this project. Please contact EBBC Vice-Chair Dave Campbell to help out. For more info, see Campaigns.
Dawn-to-Dusk Restrictionson Zampa Bridge Bike Path
Termination of Benicia Bridge Shuttle Heightens Importance of 24-7 Access
Although the new path provides daytime recreational cyclists with a beautiful way to cross the Carquinez Strait, bicycle commuters are unfairly penalized. A dawn-to-dusk restriction negates the transportation utility of this path and ignores the public access principles adopted in Regional Measure I and reaffirmed by the Bay Conservation and Development Commission's permit allowing CalTrans to build the bridge and path.
If the path is to be closed, CalTrans must provide reliable, on-demand indirect access for bicyclists and pedestrians, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to accommodate commuters. Given the existence of the path, this costly option makes little sense.
Please write the Governor's Cabinet head of CalTrans:
Sunne Wright McPeak, Secretary
Business, Transportation & Housing Agency
980 9th St, Ste 2450
Sacramento, CA 95814-2719
and send a copy to:
Will Travis, Executive Director
San Francisco BCDC
50 California Street, Suite 2600
San Francisco, California 94111
See sample letter. Click for bigger photo.
World Carfree Day Celebration in Berkeley
Berkeley's first-ever Carfree Day is on Sunday, September 19, noon-5:00pm in conjunction with the annual How Berkeley Can You Be? Parade and Festival in Civic Center Park. New to the festival will be expanded street closures around downtown Berkeley in celebration of World Carfree Day, and the Carfree Stage at the intersection of Milvia and Allston. Visit to enjoy theater, music, storytelling and more. Valet bike parking provided.
Street Fair a Success!
At the Temescal Street Fair on Saturday, August 21, EBBC's booth and bicycle valet parking proved to be extremely popular with Temescal residents. We were delighted by the outpouring of local support for Telegraph Ave. bike lanes. Over 270 postcards were
signed supporting the Oakland City Council's decision in 2000 to complete the bike lanes on Telegraph. We showed off our new fleet of bike parking racks (see photo-click to enlarge), helped spread the word about emergency action to save Measure 2 (see first article on this page), and received over $700 from new members--a record for a single-day event. With a Transit Village proposed for MacArthur BART, the time for a Temescal resurgence has arrived! Thanks to our volunteers and also the crew from Montaño Velo on Piedmont Ave. for providing free bike tune-ups throughout the event.Hey Arnold: Hands Off Measure 2!
from the TALC website--The Governor has put forward a proposal to use the proceeds of Regional Measure 2 to pay for the cost overruns on the east span of the Bay Bridge. Regional Measure 2, the $1 bridge toll increase approved by Bay Area voters in March 2004, was a comprehensive safety and congestion relief package that included the seismic retrofit of BART's Transbay Tube and projects to improve mobility for Bay Area commuters by expanding and improving bus, rail, and ferry service.
This bill will have to be passed within one week to put this matter on the November ballot, so we must let the Governor know that he cannot force us to choose between safety and mobility, and that he needs to keep his hands off Regional Measure 2. Dial (916) 445-2841 now. For more info, see the TALC website.
Senator Torlakson Seeks Support Against Irresponsible Motorists
Of DUI, State Senator Tom Torlakson notes, "It's not getting safer, and the DUI trend is moving in the wrong direction." Torklakson has called for a publicity campaign "to reach a new generation" about the dangers of drunken driving and treatment of repeat offenders. Currently 180,000 arrests are made in CA each year, about one-third are repeat arrests. Studies show that recidivism drops to 15% if chemically-dependent offenders receive treatment. (Read on.)
Justice Denied
Outrage at Slap on the Wrist for Cyclist's Killer
Fellow cyclist Matthew Sperry was hit and killed last June in Emeryville by a driver whose liscense was suspended. Earlier this month, the driver was sentenced by Judge John True. Judge True reduced what could have been a misdemeanor to an infraction, charged the driver $211 (the minimum amount possible for driving without a license) and let her, one imagines, drive off. In response, Matthew's friends and family have been trying to figure out how best to address this denial of justice. Some are calling for letters to be sent to Judge True. Others envision a complaint to the Commission on Judicial Performance.
EBBC is asking that unlisenced drivers be addressed in Senator Torlakson's efforts to increase penalties for DUI. EBBC members are encouraged to write Torklakson about this tragic injustice, adding support for legislation to curb irresponsible motorists. For more information:
- Read June 2004 rideOn
- Read more about Senator Tom Torlakson's legislation to stregthen DUI penalties (and email him from using the Feedback link on his page)
- Read more about Torklakson's meeting with the community, plus EBBC's letter in support of the legislation, seeking to expand it's range to address unlicensed drivers.
- Learn about the "Ghost Bike" project.
A Turn in the Right DirectionIntersections are the most problematic place for bicyclists. Traffic engineers typically ignore bicyclists' needs at intersections in order to accommodate cars. At Oakland's Walk/Bike California Conference in October 2003, Matthew Ridgeway presented this image of how Eugene, Oregon has designed a "combined" bike lane to continue to the intersection by sharing the right-turn lane with cars. A Federal Highway Administration evaluation study of the combined design (FHWA-RD-00-151) found no conflicts between bicyclists and motorists and recommended it be implemented at other locations. For more information go to www.bicyclinginfo.org/rd/design.htm.
New! El Cerrito Bicycle User Group
Attend the first Bicycle User Group meeting for the El Cerrito Alternative Transportation Circulation Plan!
- When: Tuesday, July 6, 6:00-7:30pm
- Where: El Cerrito City Hall, 10890 San Pablo Ave, Conference Room A
$20 million in cuts to AC Transit?
THANK GOODNESS, NO!
If you called and wrote to express your opposition to Governor Schwarzenegger's proposal to take $20 million from AC Transit, you helped prevent devastating service cuts. The Governator has rescinded his plan to cut 40% of AC Transit's budget. Instead, AC Transit will contribute 3 percent of its property tax revenue to the state for the next two years. Read more about this victory at actransit.org. Get background info at www.transcoalition.org/c/govbudget04.htm [link now defunct; webmaster, 1-25-05].
"Why Bicyclists Hate Stop Signs"
The EBBC listserv has been hosting a lively discussion about the problems bicyclists have with stopping at stop signs. A research paper by physics Professor Joel Fajans and co-author Melanie Curry entitled "Why Bicyclists Hate Stop Signs," enlivens our discussion by documenting principles regarding the conservation of energy (and perhaps why bicyclists tend to roll through repeated stops). Their research causes us to further wonder if the proliferation of stop signs on side streets, largely to deter through traffic, may actually compromise the safety of bicyclists. The combination of "energy" and "safety" arguments calls for establishing bikeways on main-line arterial roads. Read the full article.
Senator Torlakson Seeks Support Against Irresponsible Motorists
A spate of fatal collisions between intoxicated motorists and bicyclists and pedestrians in the Bay Area prompted State Senator Tom Torlakson (D-Antioch) to call a conference with tri-athletes and bicyclists in an effort to identify possible legislative actions. On short notice, the April 30 meeting at San Jose State University attracted a capacity crowd from throughout the Bay Area.
"It's not getting safer, and the DUI trend is moving in the wrong direction," noted Torlakson. He called for a publicity campaign "to reach a new generation" about the dangers of drunken driving and treatment of repeat offenders. Currently 180,000 arrests are made in CA each year, about one-third are repeat arrests. Studies show that recidivism drops to 15% if chemically-dependent offenders receive treatment.
Approximately 600 pedestrians and 125 bicyclists are killed every year on California streets and roads. Pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities represent nearly 25% of traffic-related fatalities in California each year. Thirty-four percent of all bicyclists killed by cars in California are under age 18. Too often, motorists involved in crashes are not aware of bicyclists' rights to the road, police reports blame the victims and judges side with drivers whose prior convictions have been purged from the records. Read more.
Hayward Public Meeting, June 16
After the court's rejection of Cal Trans' infamous 238 bypass, the City of Hayward now wants to put the bypass through the middle of their town. The scheme includes widening Foothill and Mission to 10 lanes in places. To do so, the city is contemplating condemning properties along two miles of the east side of this corridor to widen the route, in the case of Mission from four to eight lanes. Some 120 businesses would be affected, most of them forced to relocate or fold.
As the city has grown, auto traffic has brought the occasional angina of traffic congestion. Some politicians have suggested surgery to unclog the arteries by amputating healthy businesses. But might not other remedies lead to a healthier Hayward, through strengthening the circulatory systems of public transit, walking, and bicycling, to serve pumped-up muscles of smart-growth housing and business? The body politic must decide the best cure for itself.
Please attend a public meeting to voice opposition the overwidening proposal. Identify yourself as an opponent by wearing a "No Widening" button and ask that Council be look at alternatives to the over-widening of Foothill and Mission.
WHEN: 6:00-9:00pm, Wednesday, June 16
WHERE: Hayward City Hall (next to Hayward BART)
Read more, and/or contact Sherman Lewis by phone at (510) 538-3692 or by email for more info.
$20 million of new service cuts!? The possibility of NO weekend service or NO school service beginning July 1!?!
Tell the Governator: No!
Governor Schwarzenegger's proposed budget included a $20 million shift of critical property tax revenue away from AC Transit as part of his effort to make up for his cuts in the automobile registration fees. This property tax money has been historically set aside for transit agencies to offset operating costs. This could mean the elimination of all AC Transit weekend service or school service. Call the Governor's office and register your "hot issue" vote against the proposed $20-million cut.
- Call 916-445-2841
- Press #5 for "Hot Issues"
- Press #5 again for AC Transit
- Press #2 to OPPOSE the Governor's proposed cut
AC Transit will be disproportionatly hit by this proposal; only four entities in the state, including the City and County of Los Angeles, are being asked to sacrifice more than AC Transit. If Governor Schwarzenegger's proposed budget is adopted, AC Transit would have to cut $20 million worth of service beginning July 1. Also, under his plan, BART would lose $9 million, resulting in similar cuts to BART service.
Contact the governor NOW!
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
State Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-445-2841
Fax: 916-445-4633
For more information:
- go to the Transportation and Land Use Coalition website for a new study documenting the social and fiscal impacts of the cuts, and a sample letter to the governor, and
- visit www.actransit.org.
Whither Co Co County's Measure C?
At their May 19 meeting, the Contra Costa Transportaion Authority (CCTA) adopted a draft set of spending numbers and directed staff to develop new restrictions on some of the projects and programs. At the May 26 meeting, they hope to make final decisions on these descriptions and adopt a final Growth Management Program. Show CCTA that they must listen to the voices of the public if they want a plan that voters will support in November. The next meeting is:
Wednesday, May 26, 5:00pm
Embassy Suites Hotel, Walnut Creek (next to Pleasant Hill BART station)
Please attend if you can. You can also write letters to the editor of the Contra Costa Times.
For more info on Measure C
- go to the Transporation and Land Use Coalition website
- read the "Short Reports" in the latest issue of rideOn
- see the Campaigns page.
Regional Measure 2 PassesThe EBBC worked hard to include our Safe Routes to Transit (SR2T) proposal in the list of expenditures in Regional Measure 2, a proposal to reduce bridge congestion by raising the toll $1 and apply these funds primarily to transit options. On March 2, Measure 2 was passed. For more information, go to the TALC website. For more information about SR2T, see Campaigns.
Fremont Gap
A single flood channel acts as a barrier to travel between Fremont Blvd in Alameda County and MacCarthy Ranch Blvd in Santa Clara County. An existing unpaved levee could provide access, possibly using a surplus bridge available in SC County.
EBBC member Rich Withers, who works in the Fremont Business Park and lives to the south notes, "the 'gap' was made a bit more glaring by the opening 3 years ago of the extension of McCarthy Blvd to Dixon Landing Road, which effectively closed half of the gap. Now I can see buildings in the industrial park just 0.6 miles from the intersection of Dixon Landing Road and McCarthy Blvd in Milpitas, just west of I-880. However, to get there by public surface roads requires about 8 miles of travel and two crossings of I-880. This gap represents 'the poster child for bicycle access!'"
Solutions to the problem appear to be years away. Fremont Blvd will eventually be extended southward to Dixon Landing, but this project is developer-funded and, with millions of square feet of space now vacant in the office park, is not likely to happen soon. Is freeway shoulder access a feasible option? Or, could Fremont, Milpitas, and the two counties coordinate efforts with the Bay Trail project to bridge the gap?
The issue was presented at the Caltrans District 4 Bicycle Advisory Committee meeting on April 6, 2004. EBBC continues to pressure Caltrans to offer either freeway access or to expedite the opening of the levies as per the Bay Trail plan.
Berkeley Bicycle Boulevard Tour
The final event of Berkeley's Bike Month is a tour of it's "bicycle boulevards" [May 22]. This medium-paced ride will include the Bay Trail, the Bike/Pedestrian bridge and Marina, and a brief stop at a waterfront park with an amazing view. For more info, go to the BFBC website events page.
Bike-to-Work Day, May 20
Make sure to ride your bike to work on Bike-to-Work Day, Thursday, May 20. When you regsiter (online or at the event), you demonstrate the importance of bicycling to decision makers. Please contact us at info@ebbc.org if you'd like to volunteer. Oakland's BTWD poster this year features artwork (as you can see) by cartoonist Phil Farley.BTWD "Energizer Stations"
Where can you fuel up for your bike commute on May 20th? Find a location along your route and be sure to stop by to grab some Zone energy bars and Bullfrog sun screen.
Whither Co Co County's Measure C?
At the April 21 meeting of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA), hope was rekindled that the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan might receive funds despite the CCTA's refusal to allocate one dime to the CBPP at the previous meeting. EBBC Executive Director Robert Raburn sent a letter to the CCTA's Executive Director with specific suggestions about how bikes and peds can be routinely accommodated in the expenditure plan. EBBC members can also write letters supporting funding for Safe Routes to Transit and a strongly worded routine accommodation policy as detailed in the letter. Send/fax letters to:
Chairperson Julie Pierce and Commissioners
Contra Costa Transportation Authority
3478 Buskirk Ave, Suite 100
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Fax: 925-407-0128
The next CCTA meeting is May 19. For more info on Measure C, read the "Short Reports" in the latest issue of rideOn and, see the Campaigns page.
Berkeley's Bike Month Events
For those of you wishing to visit Berkeley in the upcoming weeks, there are some great events that the Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition has planned for Berkeley Bike Month, including a Road One Bike Safety Course. For more info, go to the BFBC website events page.
Busy May
Participate in some great bike events this May!- Zampa Bridge Path Opening & Dedication, Sunday, May 16; and
- Bike-to-Work Day, Thursday, May 20
BTWD "Energizer Stations"
Where can you fuel up for your bike commute on May 20th? Find a location along your route and be sure to stop by to grab some Zone energy bars and Bullfrog sun screen.
New Road One Bike Safety Course
Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition and the City of Berkeley are sponsoring a Road One Bike Safety Course at the end of May. For more info, and to sign up, go to the BFBC website.
Berkeley's Bike Month Events
For those of you wishing to visit Berkeley in the upcoming weeks, here are some of the fun events that the Bicycle Friendly Berkeley Coalition has planned for Berkeley Bike Month.
- Saturday, May 1, 7-9pm, Ecology Center, Special Presentation, Randy Ghent of Car Busters, is giving his slide presentation "Medieval Urbanism in Morocco
- Sunday, May 2, 10:00am-3:30pm, Family Ride: "Hidden Gems of Berkeley, A Magical Mystery Tour of Berkeley's Private and Public Vernacular Treasures"
- Saturday, May 8, 10:30am-2:30pm, Bike Day at the Berkeley Farmer's Market.
New Bike/Ped Group in Albany
Albany's Bicyclist/Pedestrian Meeting/Workshop is being held on Thursday, April 29 at 7:30 pm in the Edith Stone Room at the Albany Community Center (1249 Marin Avenue). The workshop will be facilitated by Wendy Alfsen, a co-founder of California Walks. Come meet like-minded other citizens interested in this part of the East Bay At this meeting we will get to know each other and share our ideas for improving the walkability and bikability of Albany. For more info, or if you are interested in bicyclist and pedestrian issues in Albany but can't make the meeting, please contact Preston Jordan (phone 418-9660).
Regional Bike/Ped Funding at Risk
Action Alert: Write. Now!
On December 12, 2003, a Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) subcommittee moved to support a staff recommendation that included $200 million for the Regional Bicycle/Pedestrian Program. However, when the full board of the MTC met on December 17, 2003, though they approved the $200 million, they also included a caveat that the counties be credited for local spending on regional bicycle and pedestrian projects.
Bike advocates from throughout the Bay Area objected to the credit. It threatens to diminish regional funds available in counties like Alameda and Santa Clara that have passed transportation sales tax measures supporting bike/ped improvements. Furthermore, it jeopardizes our attempts to create bike/ped funding in new sales tax measures, as in Contra Costa County's Measure C.
The full MTC Commission will consider the recommendation at 10:30 am on Wednesday, April 28 at 10:15 am. The Agenda should be available very soon at: www.mtc.ca.gov/whats_happening/whindex.htm [website defunct; webmaster, 1-25-05].
Please do the following:
- Contact your MTC Commissioner via letter, phone, or fax. Tell them to reject the ill-conceived "credit" and to respect the integrity of the Regional Bicycle/Pedestrian Program. Click for a sample letter, and Action Alert (Word format).
- Attend the April 28 meeting to show your support for the Regional Bicycle/Pedestrian Program. Tell the Commissioners to reject the "credit."
Zero Percent (0% aka 0$) for Bike/Ped Projects in Contra Costa County
Following a lengthy process involving citizen participation to draft a Transportation Sales Tax expenditure plan, the Contra Costa Transporation Authority (CCTA) staff gutted their efforts, adding hundreds of millions of dollars for highway projects while allocating 0-percent ($0) for the Countywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (CBPP). On Monday evening March 22, CoCo County leaders heard from a large contingent of transit users, environmental activists, labor leaders, and bicyclists who threatened to quash the plan when it goes to the November ballot. The citizen-based Expenditure Plan Advisory Committee had previously compromised to include 3.8% for the CBPP.
You are urged to write to your City Council and County Supervisor and remind them that the current plan is a nightmare rather than a vision. The next big public hearing will be at 6pm on April 21 at the CCTA offices, 3478 Buskirk Ave, Ste. 100, Pleasant Hill. Click here for more information about the March 22 meeting.
"Road 1" Bike Safety Class
Back by popular demand, EBBC's "Street Skills for Cyclists" course is based on the League of American Bicyclists Road I class. This class, being held in Oakland in March and April, concentrates on the thorny issues of a bicyclist sharing the road with motorists. For more info, see Bike Safety.
Safe Routes to Schools
SB 1087 (Soto) would extend California's Safe Routes to School projects for three more years. The program dedicates $20-25 million a year for six categories of projects: sidewalk improvements; traffic calming and speed reduction; pedestrian/bicycle crossing improvements; on-street bicycle facilities; and, traffic diversion improvements.
The bill is scheduled for a hearing before the Senate Transportation Committee on March 23. Please fax a letter of support ASAP! For more information, and a sample support letter, go to the Surface Transportation Policy Project's website. Please fax your letter to Senator Nell Soto's office (916-445-0128), and to the Senate Transportation Committee (916-445-2209).
$290 million at risk in Measure C!
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA), dismissing a year of public input, released a Draft Expenditure Plan that would:
- lead to cuts in bus service,
- trap seniors & the disabled in their homes,
- provide no guaranteed funding for bike & ped improvements,
- do little for affordable housing near transit, and
- shortchange other transportation choices and smart growth
WHEN: Mon, March 22, 4:30pm
WHERE: CCTA offices, 3478 Buskirk Ave, Ste. 100, Pleasant Hill
WHO: CCTA's Expenditure Plan Committee (EPC). Members are Don Freitas of Antioch, Maria Alegria of Pinole, Julie Pierce of Clayton, Karen Stepper of Danville, and Supervisor Federal Glover (East County)
For more information, visit the Transportation and Land Use Coalition (TALC) website. For more details, email or phone Jeff Hobson at TALC, (510) 740-3102.
New Director for California Bicycle Coalition
The California Bicycle Coalition has named Paul Dorn as its new executive director. Dorn was the founding chair of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition's Golden Gate Park Taskforce, and for the past three years, he has served as marketing manager for the Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts at UC Davis. Dorn has contributed to numerous publications, and is the creator of the leading bike commuting advice site on the Internet. Welcome Paul!
Energizing Communities: Starving SprawlNew Meeting Time in March
Starting on the March 16, 2004, the EBBC meeting will begin at 7:00pm during odd-numbered months (January, March, May, July, September, November) only. This change is to allow the board some extra time to discuss administrative and action items. Meetings held during even numbered months will still begin at 7:30pm. Everyone is welcome at all EBBC meetings. Feel free to come at the beginning, or, if you prefer, just come at 8:30pm for the feature presentation, which is generally described on the first page of the monthly issue of rideOn. The agenda for meetings is distributed via the EBBC listserv on the Friday prior to the meeting.
Register for the Transportation and Land Use Coalition's (TALC's) 7th Annual Summit, Saturday, March 13, 9:30am
New Alameda-Oakland Bike Water Taxi: SUNK
Before the ink was dry on our February cover photo of new Alameda-Oakland Bike Ferry, the port of Oakland denied the service the right to dock. Port staff allege that the operator has acted unprofessionally. We cannot debate this point, in part because the Port failed to send a representative to an Oakland Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee hearing on the matter on Feb 19.
According to City of Alameda staff, the Port of Oakland had been apprised of the upcoming service for over a year. We wonder why the Port fired a late torpedo? Clearly, we need to get the parties involved (Alameda, Oakland, Air District, and the Port of Oakland) to sit down at a table together soon if we expect to see daily service by May.
Perhaps Caltrans could step in to help with travel on this State Route? Their work on the Posey and Webster Tubes began in 1999 and included mitigation funds for nonmotorized access during the ongoing project.
A YES Vote on Measure 2 Funds Safe Routes to TransitThe EBBC worked hard to include our Safe Routes to Transit (SR2T) proposal in the list of expenditures in Regional Measure 2 (RM2), a proposal to reduce bridge congestion by raising the toll $1 and apply these funds primarily to transit options. According to Stuart Cohen, Director of the Transportation and Land Use Coaliton, "there is good reason that every major environmental, social justice, and labor organization is supporting Regional Measure 2 and the only organized opposition is coming from the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association." Although the SR2T only gets $20 million and is hardly the cornerstone of RM2, voters are encouraged to decide for themselves by going to the Measure 2 website [website now defunct; webmaster, 1-25-05] and reading the plan. For more information about SR2T, see Campaigns.
MTC Approval of $200 Million for Regional Bike Plan Comes With Strings Attached
Although the MTC Commissioners approved $200 million for bike/ped funding, they also included a caveat that the counties be credited for local spending on regional bicycle and pedestrian projects. This criteria threatens to diminish regional funds available in counties like Alameda and Santa Clara that have passed transportation sales tax measures supporting bike/ped improvements. Furthermore, it jeopardizes our attempts to create bike/ped funding in new sales tax measures, as in Contra Costa County.
The Regional Bicycle Working Group will be working on the details of this credit proposal over the next several months. Stay tuned.
Support Safe Routes to School
Call Senators Boxer and Feinstein
Action alert from America Bikes
In early February 2004, the US Senate is scheduled to vote on the new transportation bill. The bill currently contains language creating a national Safe Routes to School program, providing money to communities for infrastructure and education projects. But there's a move afoot in the Senate to strip the program from the bill entirely. Please call both your US Senators today. Say this:
"Please support Safe Routes to School in SAFETEA, S 1072, and fully fund the program at $250 million a year."The Senate bill calls for only $70 million a year for Safe Routes, while the House bill calls for $250 million a year. $70 million would build an average of 9 miles of sidewalk in each state. Senators need to hear that their constituents want Safe Routes to School. Call before January 30, 2004! For more information, go to the America Bikes website.
EBBC'S Annual Retreat
Food and Drinks Provided!
Every year, EBBC's most dedicated members ride out for a day-long strategy retreat to an interesting and enjoyable location within an easy bike ride. For the second straight year, we visit Port Costa, a small town on the Carquinez Strait, located between Crockett and Martinez in west Contra Costa County. Across the water is Benicia, in Solano County.
Our retreat will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2004, in the Port Costa School Building, at the junction of Canyon Lake Drive and Reservoir Rd., about a 1/4 mile up Canyon Lake Drive from the waters of the Carquinez Strait. (The school is indicated on EBBC's West of the Hills Map). All EBBC members are welcome. For more information, contact us.
Bike Film Fest, Call for Submissions
The Bicycle-Friendly Berkeley Coalition's 8th Bike Film Fest needs your creative film work! Your contributions are welcome--tell a friend! BFBC's fabulous fun-filled film festival will be held next year in February, 2004. Click here to download flyer in .pdf format.
Deadline: January 30, 2004
Subject matter: ANYTHING about bikes/alternative transit/auto-issues.
Other: No length requirements-shorts (5 minutes or less) up to full length features.
Please mail your VHS, SVHS, or 16mm piece (enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for returns) to:
BFBC Film Fest
PO Box 13357
Berkeley, CA 94712
For more info, contact Shane Rhodes at 510-540-7190 or shane@pedalexpress.com.
MTC Subcommittee Recommends $200 Million for Regional Bike Plan
A Metropolitan Transportation Commission subcommittee heard from a large group of community leaders, health professionals, and transportation activists on Friday, December 12, 2003 before moving to support a staff recommendation that included $200 million for the Regional Bicycle/Pedestrian Program. The Planning and Operations Committee that approved the staff recommendation to include the $200 million set-aside includes three of the East Bay commissioners. Even so, the bike/ped funding is still at risk. The full board will vote on the recommendation on Wednesday, December 17, 2003.
Take Action: Before December 17--even if you've written before--write your representatives, thank them for supporting the set-aside, and ask for their continued support when the matter comes to a vote on December 17, 2003. For addresses of your MTC commissioners plus a sample letter, click here.
Cerrito Creek Restoration Nestles Up to Bike Path
Check out the Cerrito Creek Restoration Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Tuesday, December 16, 2003 from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. The event will be held creekside at El Cerrito Plaza, at the west side of the Farmers' Market, across from Trader Joe's.
El Cerrito has been aggressively pursuing construction of bikeway connections to their BART stations. This short path and creek restoration project will eventually extend across San Pablo to the proposed on-street Carlson bikeway and the Bay Trail. The dedication ceremony is also a good time to check on the progress of the El Cerrito Plaza Bike Garage with 48 new e-lockers. Get more info on the El Cerrito website or contact Heather Koch in the Community Development Department at 215-4322.
Safe Routes to Transit on March 2004 Ballot
Bay Area voters will decide in March whether to charge an extra dollar toll on the seven state-owned bridges. Most of the proceeds from the toll will fund a mix of transit projects focused on reducing bridge congestion. Included in the proposed expenditures is the Safe Routes to Transit program jointly proposed by the East Bay Bicycle Coalition (EBBC) and the Transportation and Land Use Coalition (TALC). For more info, see Campaigns.
$500 MILLION AT STAKE FOR REGIONAL BIKE PLAN
Put Down Mouse, Pick Up Pen
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) is in the process of revising its Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), a blueprint for transportation funding over the next 25 years. Now that we have an adopted Regional Bicycle Plan, we need the funding to implement the safety and connector projects that will one day lead to a seamless network of bikeways around the Bay. The Bay Area Bicycle Coalition (BABC) has been lobbying MTC to include a $500 million set-aside over the next 25 years for bicycle projects. Now we need YOUR help to convince the Commissioners that this is a good investment of regional transportation funds.
Take Action: Let your representatives on the MTC hear from you! For addresses of your MTC commisioners plus sample letters, click here.
You're Either On the Map or Off the Map
EBBC is working on a revised East of the Hills Bicycle Map to be available next year. Bike shops appear on the map in BOLD print if they contribute $40 to EBBC. There are currently three EBBC member shops in the area covered by this eastern Alameda and Contra Costa County map: Dublin Cyclery, Sharp Bicycles, and Hank & Frank. If you know of a bike shop that is BOLD enough to be an EBBC member, and would like to shown in BOLD print on this popular and widely distributed map, please have them contact us. This map will be around for a while, and shops get good publicity for a small price for being an EBBC member shop. It's a great deal!
Weigh In On Pleasant Hill BART Access
Community Walking Tour and Workshop
The Contra Costa County Community Development Department is hosting a community workshop to gather ideas on how to improve pedestrian and bicycle access to the Pleasant Hill BART station. The outcome of this effort will be a preferred design for a new shortcut path and signage/wayfinding system.
The Workshop is Tuesday, November 18, 2003, 7:00-9:00. (A walking tour was held on Saturday November 15.) For more information, go to the contra Costa County website.
Nov. 19: Alameda Transportation Master Plan Public Workshop
The City of Alameda's Transportation Commission will hold its first Transportation Master Plan public workshop on November 19:
- Time: Wednesday, 11/19/03, 7:30 pm
- Location: City Hall, Council Chambers, 2263 Santa Clara Avenue, Third Floor
EBBC ED Wins Stride and Ride Award
October 2003
Robert Raburn, EBBC's Excecutive Director, was awarded a "Stride and Ride" award, given to honor outstanding efforts to improve access and conditions for pedestrians, bicyclists, and the disabled/seniors, during the Walk/Bike California 2003 Conference held in Oakland in mid-October.
Robert's efforts were lauded thus: "Robert Raburn ... has tirelessly advocated for bicycle facilities in the East Bay for the past 15 years. As the current executive director of the nonprofit East Bay Bicycle Coalition--which represents over 3,000 bicyclists in 15 affiliated bicycle clubs--he has fought for increasing bridge access, closing critical gaps in the bicycle lane network, addressing barriers to bicyclists throughout the Bay Area, and adding on-street bicycle facilities in Oakland and in other East Bay cities. Robert is responsible for launching the Bikes-on-BART program that has inspired other East Bay transit systems to follow suit and accommodate bicyclists. As an author of Ride On, the East Bay Bicycle Coalition's newsletter, Robert also has educated readers about bicycle facility design, innovative ideas from abroad and new bicycle parking concepts."
New EBBC T-shirt Design
Featuring artwork by internationally-known cartoonist Andy Singer, the new EBBC T-shirt has landed. "IT'S MY LANE TOO!" seeks to educate drivers and fellow cyclists about the fact that bicyclists can take the lane. Renew your membership and get a T-shirt! (Our pending commitment to spend $37,000 on the East of the Hills Map requires that we work especially hard to keep get all lapsed members to renew.) Otherwise, T-shirts can be purchased for $11, $15 for XXL. Contact us to order one. The EBBC extends its most sincere thanks to Andy for donating the drawing of the happy cyclist that helps communicate our message.Davis Signs AB 1409!!!
WooHoo! This is a great ending to what began as a nightmare when the CHP suddenly enforced the letter-of-the-law to prohibit AC Transit from continuing to mount racks on their new 45' buses. The EBBC board and Executive Director wish to thank each of you who took the time to write to Governor Davis or helped in the campaign. Governor Davis and many other legislators received a loud message that bicyclists and transit matter!
We can now look forward to the installation of front racks on all transbay and express coaches to carry two bikes. For more info, see Campaigns.
Transporation Design Must Now Consider Bikes and Peds
(From the California Bicycle Coaltion website)--California Assembly Concurrent Resolution 211 (ACR 211), authored by Assemblyman Joe Nation (D-San Rafael) was approved August 12th, 2002 by the state legislature. ACR 211 encourages cities and counties to implement Caltrans' Deputy Directive 64 and the U.S. Department of Transportation's design guidance document on integrating bicycling and walking when making road improvements. Read more at www.calbike.org/acr211.asp.
BART fare increase
What about an increase in car parking charges?
Showing little creativity, the BART Board of Directors has approved a 10 percent fare increase effective January 1, 2004 with no recommended change in automobile parking fees at BART stations. The petition to encourage the board to implement expanded parking fees (vs. rate hikes and service cuts) is still awaiting your signature [website defunct; webmaster, 1-25-05].
