The Palo Alto City Council has decided to enhance cycling routes on quieter neighborhood streets rather than on major thoroughfares like Middlefield Road. Councilman Keith Reckdahl emphasized the importance of a pleasant biking environment, free from car fumes. Senior City Transportation Planner Ozzy Acre suggested that Middlefield Road should primarily function as a neighborhood route, similar to the transformation seen on California Avenue. While some council members favor this approach, there is pushback from residents and discussions on potentially including bike lanes on parts of Middlefield.
"I don't want the fumes. I don't want to see cars. I want the canopy that's over on Cowper (Street)," Councilman Keith Reckdahl said on Monday, when council reviewed the city's bicycle and pedestrian transportation plan.
Ozzy Acre, the Senior City Transportation Planner, emphasized that updated plans "embrace arterials" with separated bike lanes, suggesting that Middlefield Road could serve better as a neighborhood street.
Mayor Ed Lauing indicated that the city should focus on appealing to new cyclists who prefer neighborhood routes rather than cycling enthusiasts seeking the fastest pathways across the city.
Vice Mayor Vicki Veenker expressed her willingness to consider bike lanes on the northern end of Middlefield Road, highlighting her personal struggle biking to Menlo Park as evidence of the need for safer routes.
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