Saratoga News

Letters & Opinions

Speak Out

City makes progress
with safety issues
on Herriman Avenue

The city of Saratoga would like to take this opportunity to provide your readers with an update on progress made in addressing pedestrian, bicycle and automotive safety and traffic congestion on Herriman Avenue and associated cross streets.

The city's traffic safety commission has been diligently working on a comprehensive set of options for this area of Saratoga. Working with the city's traffic engineer, the commission developed a number of proposals including:

* Two raised crosswalks--at Lexington and Saratoga Vista--and a "bulb out" on Herriman at Lexington

* A continuous sidewalk on the south side (school side) of Herriman; bike lanes on both sides of Herriman; and the elimination of parking, if needed

* Enforcement of "no parking or stopping" on Lexington

These proposals require additional study, such as traffic count and compilation of speed data on Lexington. In addition, any construction projects will need to be brought for consideration during the Capital Improvement Program prioritization and funding process.

In August of this year, homeowners along Herriman were informed about a proposed parking restriction on their street in order to create bicycle paths on both sides of the street. On Sept. 5, the city council will consider approving the parking restriction on Herriman. If approved by the council, work to restrict parking and to create the bicycle paths will commence in the near future.

The traffic issues in the Herriman Avenue vicinity are complex and require careful consideration. We appreciate the feedback we have received from concerned residents and are committed to enhancing safety for people walking, riding and driving in that area.

If readers desire additional information, contact Kristin Borel, public works analyst, at kborel@saratoga.ca.us or at 408.868.12585.

Ann Waltonsmith

Vice mayor, Saratoga