SVBC letter brings Caltrans into Woodside parking debate, ends holiday parking in bike lane

The most recent update in the Woodside Rd. parking debate is decidedly positive for cyclists. Soon after the Town of Woodside decided to allow special holiday parking on Woodside Rd., SVBC sent a letter (PDF) to Caltrans to explain our position and ask that the "No Parking" signage be enforced.

It seems Caltrans agrees with our stance. In a letter sent today from Caltrans to the Town of Woodside Director of Public Works, the Transportation Department clearly stated that the holiday exemption cannot continue, noting "...it appears that clarification is required relative to modifications of the parking restrictions by the Town for special events."

S. Sean Nozzari, the Caltrans Deputy District Director who wrote the letter, explains the motivation for Caltrans' intervention:

This modification has raised significant concern for bicycling groups (as described in the recent correspondence by the Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition) and also creates potential accessibility concerns relative to the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The letter continues in no uncertain terms:

It is hereby requested that the temporary modification now in place be removed immediately to facilitate safe and efficient movement of pedestrians and bicycle traffic.

SVBC would like to thank Caltrans and Director Nozzari for their timely response to our concerns. Now, cyclists in Woodside can enjoy the holidays, knowing that there won't be vehicles blocking their path as they pedal down the highway.