Oakland’s Department of Transportation is in the midst of a long-term planning process for Grand Avenue that they summarize as follows:
The City of Oakland is creating a comprehensive transportation plan on Grand Avenue to strategize an inclusive, safer, and sustainable transportation network for the future, without displacing existing residents and businesses. The Grand Avenue Mobility Plan will collaborate with AC Transit, community-based organizations, and Oaklanders along the corridor to conceptualize an implementable plan that will enhance transit service and improve traffic safety on this high injury corridor.
The stated goals are admirable and, when implemented the improvements will be welcomed. Unfortunately, for business owners on Grand above 580 as well as all the residents in the surrounding neighborhoods, the obvious question is, “Why didn’t DOT extend the scope of this project another half mile to the Piedmont city line?” It’s clear that the safety, parking, transit and environmental issues are concerns shared equally.
Regardless of where you live or work, if you have a vested interest in the future of Grand Avenue, please take the time to fill out the survey. If you share the concerns expressed above, please urge DOT to expand the boundaries of their project. In addition, if you’d like to see the parking and transportation crunch alleviated on Saturday Farmers Market Days when it’s at its very worst, we have a solution in mind. The City of Oakland has shuttle buses that provide free service on Broadway Monday through Friday. Why not do the same for Grand Avenue on Saturdays only.
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