AgdaPkt 2019-02-25 Joint SA PFA - Laserfiche WebLink

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CLK-Pamela Aguilar From: Arnie Ashton <aashton@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, February 22, 2019 9:33 AM To: GRP -City Council Subject: YAY for BIKES on ECR Honorable City Council, I wanted to express my support for protected bike lanes and other pedestrian improvements on El Camino Real. As a regular bicycle rider/walker to services and retail there, it will be a blessing to feel safer. In particular, I support protected bike lanes for several reasons. Economics Bicycling contributes to local economies. Not only does bicycle access contribute to the local economy, but bike projects save money since they cost substantially less than auto infrastructure projects. Bicycle infrastructure projects also create more jobs per dollar spent than auto infrastructure projects. And remember, people on bicycles spend more on local retail per week than other mode of transportation. Traffic Reduction Imagine a way to reduce traffic congestion and accidents without expensively prohibitive and undesirable roadway widening. Studies show that 60 percent of the population can be classified as "Interested but Concerned" cyclists who will only bicycle on low -stress streets and intersections. Giving people an option other than driving will reduce traffic because you are now harnessing that 60 percent of people who would consider cycling, something I always like to remind my driving friends. Community and Health Benefits This is for COMMUNITY, as well as the environment. It will most help those who cannot afford a car/choose not to have a car and must bike and walk. Offering a healthy mode of transport will reduce the stress of residents and result in cleaner air for the most vulnerable in our community. Environment This one goes without saying. At the rate we are going, all coral reefs will be dead in my lifetime. Say goodbye to skiing in north America by 2050. We must do something, no matter how small, or our kids will never forgive us. Increasing the Beneficial Effects Your neighboring Council members in the City of Santa Clara have just also take the bold step to include protected bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure in their EI Camino Precise Plan. The more cities that implement bike lanes, the more other cities will join! Thank you, Amie Ashton