Paved streets are safer for all users—drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians. I authored a Council item to shore up our inadequate street paving budget, which led to $14 million more for street paving in the City budget approved in June. I also authored a streets fiscal policy to ensure that future Councils adequately fund street paving. On the November ballot, voters will have an opportunity to consider Measure L, which would further address the City’s deferred maintenance on infrastructure, including street paving and sidewalk repair. 

Facts on Hopkins Corridor Bike and Pedestrian Infrastructure Improvements

The segment of Hopkins slated to receive bicycle and pedestrian improvements (Gilman to Sutter) is considered a high-injury corridor in our City’s Vision Zero Action Plan, meaning fatal bike and pedestrian collisions have occurred on this segment of Hopkins. I support addressing roadway safety in a way that ensures access for all—drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians—and the continued success of our beloved Hopkins Street shops. This means that we must work to ensure adequate availability of parking in the commercial segment of Hopkins. On October 11, the Council unanimously voted to request additional information related to alternative routes and parking impacts before a final decision is made for the Hopkins corridor.  

There is currently no plan to extend bike lanes west of Gilman on Hopkins, and no plan to add bike lanes on Gilman. The Council has requested that our Public Works Department conduct a robust community input process—scheduled to begin in December—in order to determine what bike and pedestrian enhancements may be appropriate on Hopkins from Gilman to San Pablo Avenue. 

Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that enhancing safety for bicyclists and pedestrians benefits all users of all ages, including drivers who will be less likely to share a lane with bicyclists and those who use the crosswalks after they drive and park.