November 13, 1998

Palo Alto Weekly

To the Editor,

Citywide School Commute Safety study recommends bike lanes on Middlefield.

Middlefield is one of only three routes which cross through all of Palo Alto, extending from Sunnyvale to Redwood City. The other two routes are El Camino Real, which has a lot more traffic, and the Foothill Expressway/Junipero Serra/Alameda de Las Pulgas combination, which is out of the way for most Palo Alto residents. In contrast, Middlefield passes through the heart of Palo Alto and has a low speed limit, making it an ideal route for bicycle commuters.

City Staff and the Study Advisory Committee for the Citywide School Commute Safety study are recommending to the Palo Alto City Council that bike lanes be added to Middlefield, and that daytime parking be restricted on one side of the road, from Oregon to Channing. These improvements would greatly increase the safety of all who ride this route, by giving bicyclists their own lane and keeping cars at a safe distance. In addition, a safer route may encourage more bicycle commuting, reducing road congestion and pollution.

If you would like bike lanes established along Middlefield Road, please write to the City Council in support of the Citywide School Commute Safety study's recommendations. Letters may be sent to City Hall, 250 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301, or e-mailed to city_council@city.palo-alto.ca.us.

Cedric de La Beaujardiere

Stelling Drive, Palo Alto