Marin IJ Readers’ Forum for July 23, 2024

Open Richmond Bridge lane to traffic for commute

I was infuriated to read the article published July 7 with the headline “Change proposed for use of bicycle, pedestrian lane.” There is a plan to turn the westbound bike and pedestrian lane of the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge into an emergency stopping lane for vehicles from Mondays through Thursdays by moving the barrier. On Fridays through Sundays, it would be moved back for a bike lane.

The completed multiyear study of the bike lane is over. It is obvious the vast majority of bridge users — those who drive vehicles — are being negatively impacted by not having the third lane available, which is how the bridge was designed. Another long study will be more “paralysis by analysis.”

In his recent commentary, IJ political columnist Dick Spotswood laid out the entire situation perfectly (“Richmond Bridge bike lane testing must come to end,” July 17). I will not repeat his points except the one addressing the issue of transitioning the Marin side to accept three traffic lanes instead of two. “Recall that before 1977, three lanes flowed from Richmond to the San Rafael interchange,” Spotswood wrote. It can be done, folks.

Interestingly, the correct solution was given in the last paragraph of the July 7 article. Lisa Klein, the director of field operations for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, the agency leading this project, pointed to the improvement that was made on the eastbound bottom deck. “The Bay Area Toll Authority has directed staff to pursue making permanent the eastbound commuter lane,” Klein is quoted as saying. “The lane opened as a pilot program in 2018 and relieves drivers of about 14 to 17 minutes on afternoon commute trips to the East Bay.”

There it is. Do the same with the top deck. Allow three lanes of vehicle traffic during high volume commute hours and turn it into a lane for emergency/bridge maintenance at other times via electronic signage.

— John Neuenburg, San Rafael

Trail damage by bikes will cost water district

In my experience, mountain biking on steep single-track trails is an inherently dangerous activity (hence helmets and other protective gear) for both the rider and anyone who might be in the way. Unavoidably, it damages trail surfaces, especially in wet conditions. Moreover, those most likely to ride such trails find that going fast is more fun than going slow.

Thus, before allowing any bicycle access to single-track trails on watershed land (“MMWD details preparations for expanded bike access,” June 26), the Marin Municipal Water District Board of Directors should hike each of the trails proposed for inclusion in the pilot project. They should note the condition of each trail (including existing damage from illegal bicycle use) and imagine what the hiking experience would be if it meant constantly having to be wary of speeding cyclists.

Then, board members should tell ratepayers how (and at whose cost) trail damage will be repaired after the project concludes. The board’s focus should be on protecting the resource while allowing safe, low-intensity recreation, not putting at risk its resources and public safety in order to pander to the desires of a small group of thrill-seekers.

— George Forman, Nicasio

Opening Alto Tunnel would help local business expand

Hello to my neighbors and friends. I’m the owner of a dog-walking and dog-training business. I am based in San Rafael and have served central and southern Marin for 20 years. I want to voice my support for the push to open Alto Tunnel to cyclists and pedestrians, as well as other projects like this.

Opening the tunnel would enable me to safely enter Mill Valley without the use of a car. Other jurisdictions, like San Anselmo, Fairfax, Ross, Larkspur, Corte Madera and San Rafael are easily and safely accessible for me with the use of my electric-assist cargo bike. That’s my transportation for my training sessions.

With bike access available through the Alto Tunnel, I will be able to connect my routes and train future clients and their dogs in Mill Valley without sitting in my car polluting and congesting the narrow streets of that community. The new addition of the bike lanes in Larkspur near Highway 101 is a great improvement and allows me access to that area. I grew up in Corte Madera and still visit my mom there using my bike.

Let’s get this done. I hope our generation will be the one to actually do it. See you on the trails.

— Robert Jupe, San Rafael