It's disappointing, however, that she used so much space to discuss only one side of the problem. Many motorists make Lincoln Avenue an unsafe place for pedestrians who do use the crosswalks. Part of this problem is that Lincoln Avenue is a four-lane road on which some motorists frequently travel 35-plus miles per hour. This makes it difficult to stop quickly for pedestrians—particularly at the crosswalks, which have bulb-outs. (Pedestrians are very close to traffic at these crosswalks when standing in the bulb-out section, and if they step out into the crosswalk too quickly they run the risk of being run over by speeding cars.)

The other related problem is that because the road is four lanes wide, when a driver on the curb side of the road stops for pedestrians, the other driver in the next lane (traveling in the same direction) frequently doesn't stop—at least not very quickly—because the curbside car blocks his or her view of the pedestrians. (No doubt some drivers think that the curbside car may have stopped to parallel park.) I've seen this situation occur many, many times, with tires screeching, foul language and gestures, and so on. The danger to the pedestrian in these situations could be life-threatening—it is not at all life-threatening to the motorist.

The Willow Glen Resident published an article some time ago in which a number of residents cited their strong concerns for pedestrian safety on Lincoln Avenue. In addition, a large number of residents turned out at Ken Yeager's meeting about Lincoln Avenue safety to say the same things. I think they would agree that pedestrians need to obey the laws, but at the same time they would say that the crosswalks on Lincoln are not as safe as they should be—which is why the new signs are there!

By the way, while I'm generally not in favor of more traffic signs stating the obvious "Stop for Pedestrians—State Law," I am thankful that the new pedestrian signs are up, as they seem to be helping more motorists stop for pedestrians. (Of course, they wouldn't need to be there if some motorists drove more slowly and paid more attention to cars that are stopped at crosswalks.) I hope that drivers will not become blasé and ignore them after time goes by. I also look forward to more efforts by the city that will help improve this situation.

If we want to have a thriving and vibrant Lincoln Avenue, we need to create a safe pedestrian atmosphere that encourages shoppers to walk across the street (rather than drive) to visit other businesses.

—Vern Ladd, Willow Glen


Area also needs respectful drivers

While the addition of pedestrian signs to Lincoln Avenue in downtown Willow Glen is a step in the right direction, it is only that—a step. What is also needed is motorists who know and respect the law pertaining to crosswalks. When a pedestrian enters a crosswalk, he or she is supposed to be on sacred turf. According to the law, no driver may enter any part of a crosswalk when someone is in the process of crossing. It doesn't matter that the person has cleared the area directly in front of your car—you are not, by law, allowed to enter the crosswalk until it is clear of all pedestrians.

California drivers in general—and San Jose drivers in particular—either do not know or choose to ignore this law. One need only stand on the sidewalk and observe our "newly protected" crosswalks for daily proof of how dangerous they remain.

—G.M. Lovell, Terra Bella


The problem is how to enforce law on Lincoln Avenue

With much delight, I came back from a long vacation to see the new pedestrian crosswalk warnings. These are great. However, I have to say, the problem is how to enforce the law. The other night my wife, daughter and I tried to cross the street but managed to get only halfway across. Two cars did not bother to stop, even as a San Jose police officer beamed his spotlight at them.

Unfortunately, the officer was not interested in pursuing these lawbreakers. He drove off in the opposite direction. Until we establish enforcement and get the word out, I fear we'll continue to live with this unfortunate situation.

—Jim Keaney, Briarwood Avenue


Speeding drivers affect Lincoln Ave.

I agree with Natalie Thompson, whose letter about the speeding drivers on Lincoln Avenue appeared in the Sept. 4 edition of The Willow Glen Resident.

To offer a perfect example of the traffic situation along the avenue: I was recently in traffic school (no, I don't speed, it wasn't my fault, etc.). One of the young women in the class said she was ticketed for speeding on Lincoln. She couldn't understand it because she was positive the speed limit was 45 mph! I was appalled and told her so. This is my home, and I have a huge problem with the speeders on my street (Curtner Avenue) and Lincoln Avenue, which is my downtown. The problem doesn't seem to be being addressed. Slow down. I have.

—Chris Kelly, Curtner Avenue