Richmond Bridge should be closed to bikes for now
IJ political columnist Dick Spotswood recently wrote about the bike lane on the RichmondSan Rafael Bridge (“Closing Richmond Bridge bike lanes during week does not go far enough,” March 27). He said the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and Caltrans are considering a move in the right direction, but it is a half measure that won't relieve the span's traffic congestion. I agree, but I think Spotswood did not go far enough with his criticism and solution.
I understand the idea behind keeping the path open Fridays through Sundays and removing it to be used for emergencies and maintenance workers the rest of the week. But I am concerned about the width of the lanes. It could result in slowed traffic. Inevitably, slow cars would be traveling next to fast ones, which could lead to unsafe conditions.
Spotswood correctly pointed out that the bike lane is being underutilized. However, I think there should be no bicycle and pedestrian lane on the bridge any day. There should be no moveable wall and no zipper truck, with its associated costs.
We obviously need three vehicle traffic lanes during commute hours. The upper deck should be set up like the lower deck, with electronic signs telling us when the right lane can be used, and when it should be left as an emergency lane for stalled vehicles.
This is an important feature regardless of the day or hour. As the westbound deck is set up now, if a vehicle stops, it clogs one of two usable lanes. That's unacceptable. Additionally, I think the process of a vehicle stopping in a right “emergency” lane is also very dangerous.
— John Neuenburg, San Rafael together to see that our country does not lead to a civil war.
In my opinion, Donald Trump's example shows people that it is OK to bully and spew hateful words toward others. Meanwhile, I have seen local acts of antisemitism increase. Those recent incidents force many to relive a very painful time in history.
I want the kind of leadership and representation that actively opposes this behavior as an example for our children and grandchildren.
It appears that there are many, including me, with deep concern about our upcoming presidential election in November. I find some of the things Trump says in public to be confusing. Some things he says can be interpreted as threatening. In addition, he wants to do away with the Affordable Care Act. But, right now, that law helps provide health insurance for millions of people. It should not be repealed.
Trump supporters should think about our needs in retirement. I am concerned that, if Trump wins, the future of Social Security could be jeopardized. We all had those funds withheld during our time of employment.
We have a very decent and honest person presently leading our country in President Joe Biden. We must see that he remains in office.
— Jacqueline Louis, Greenbrae