by Barry Remis July 23rd was a milestone day for Santa Barbara as City contractors completed most of the new traffic pattern restriping of East Cabrillo Blvd, from Ninos Dr. to Los Patos Way. As part of the City’s Vision Zero Strategy implementation, this project, that both COAST and SBBIKE advocated in support of, introduces three MAJOR safety improvements to the corridor:
A few of the veteran East Beach volleyball players I spoke with did have some concerns about the new parking configuration, finding it somewhat challenging to back in straight into a space without readily-visible references to the lines on the pavement (which can't be seen unless the driver angles their rear-view mirrors down to see them). A younger gentleman wondered how, if he had difficulties, elderly drivers may fare when faced with the new challenge of back-in parking. A valid point. Others had lingering wonder of the future congestion factor along E Cabrillo with only two travel lanes instead of four. City Transportation staff feel confident after studying traffic volumes and flow that back-ups shouldn't occur more frequently than they already do, and with the eventual infrastructure improvements at the 101/Railroad overpass interchange (including a new roundabout at Los Patos Way/Channel Dr.), traffic flow should be improved. Some important notes:
OK, enough words...take a look at the new Vision Zero improvements with all these photos I took, and then…get out there and try it for yourself! Get on your bike and ride the new and improved E Cabrillo Blvd. or drive to the beach to try out the new back-in angled parking. Let’s Celebrate Improved Safety...and thanks to the City of S.B. for getting us there!
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