Santa Fe Drive Redesign and Parking Configuration

Supported addressing the current street design flaws, noting that the 11-inch curb and narrow lane widths for back-in parking create safety hazards and ADA access issues.

Expressed appreciation for the enhanced crosswalk and westbound bike lane, while cautioning against using loose stones in landscaped areas near pedestrian paths.

Highlighted crash hazards associated with physical barriers in separated bikeways and recommended buffered Class II bike lanes, warning signage improvements, and option 3.

Supported option 3 to ensure emergency vehicle access and alleviate congestion on Santa Fe Drive.

Strongly opposed the redesign, arguing it prioritizes driver convenience over cyclist safety and disproportionately impacts female cyclists.

Shared local observations as a resident across from the high school, noting that while back-in parking is unpopular, ripping out recently installed infrastructure is a waste of money.

Used kinetic energy physics examples to compare collisions between pedestrians and e-bikes versus cars, arguing that removing separated protections increases danger.

Suggested that if the project moves forward, Option 3 is best, but advocated for lowering speed limits across Santa Fe Drive to 25 mph.

Praised engineering staff but suggested creating a fourth design option maintaining protected bike lanes on both sides.

A high school student and new driver who urged the council to keep protected bike lanes, emphasizing that the street must remain safe for student cyclists.

Strongly condemned the redesign as prioritizing driver convenience and fossil fuel dependence over safety and climate resilience.

Speaking for the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition, argued that replacing separated bikeways with painted Class II lanes increases collision risks.

A long-time resident living near Santa Fe Drive who supported the current improvements, noting they have slowed traffic and reduced accidents.

Expressed skepticism about government planning, referencing broader urban design concepts and bike accidents on Coast Highway.

A former emergency room nurse who supported the redo to ensure proper traffic flow and emergency vehicle access.

Shared her survival of a severe bicycle accident and stressed the critical importance of raised bike lanes for cyclist safety.