SR 06-13-2023 16D
City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: June 13, 2023
Agenda Item: 16.D
1 of 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Denise Anderson Warren, City Clerk, Records and Election Services
Department
Subject: Request of Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre that the City Council direct
the City Manager to provide an update via an Information Item to be
published on the City’s website regarding bicycle and pedestrian
improvements installed on 17th Street from Pico to Wilshire, known as the
“Safe Streets for 17th Street and Michigan Avenue” project, upon completion
of the project. In the Information Item, the City Manager is asked to provide
an overview of the project, total costs, funding sources, intended outcomes,
lessons learned, and adjustments made. As part of the Information Item, the
City Manager is also being asked to consider the costs, impacts, trade-offs,
and possible funding sources associated with modifying the design of the
intersection at Broadway and 17th (i.e., adjusting the configuration of the
corner islands) that will enhance vehicular movements while not
compromising bicycle and pedestrian safety.
Prepared By: Denise Anderson Warren, City Clerk
Approved
Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. Written Comments
16.D
Packet Pg. 632
From:Samantha Mota
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov
Subject:16D:+Support for 17th StreetBikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 8:48:09 PM
Attachments:VID_29660614_034138_367.mp4
EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
As someone born and raised on 17th st., I hope you continue to support the 17th st bike lane
and others instead of jeopardizing it for vulnerable users, such as myself.
In 2019, I was hit by a car on 14th (near the former Truxton) while riding my bike in the
unprotected bike lane and nearly killed. And, another time on Pico and Lincoln, where the
driver failed to stop at the red light and hit me on my bike.
The newly divided lanes provide better infrastructure and mobility justice for people who
depend on other forms of transportation instead of driving a car. As someone apart of our
younger generation, I hope you all continue to be pillars of progress than pushback.
Attached are some picture from my accidents (Please consider and be wise of cyclists,
pedestrians, etc. who are vulnerable to reckless drivers)
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 633 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 634 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 635 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 636 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 637 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jacob Wasserman
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway as Constructed: Fully Protected
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:39:29 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
As a Santa Monica resident, a bike commuter, a parent of a young kid whom I take
on walks in the area, and also a car owner, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in
Santa Monica as constructed/planned—i.e., fully protected by concrete separation
—and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety ofour community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
Jacob Wasserman90403
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 638 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Aida Ash
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 5:33:20 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do
the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Stop taking a note out of the GOP book and pushing our community backwards. Climate change is a real issue and
car transportation is a significant contributor to our poor air quality, climate change, and the top source of death for
children. Keep our streets safe and think of the future instead of going backwards.
Thank you for your time.
Signed,
Sent from a mobile device.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 639 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:J B
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 5:40:17 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do
the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.Signed,
Thank you,
Jesse Budlong
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 640 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:bart petty
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 6:12:46 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Please be aware that there is strong support for the 17th Street Bike Lane Project, as well as
future infrastructure of this type. I am a lifelong cyclist and truly appreciate the safety these
bike lanes offer. I am confident that this infrastructure will prove its value as time goes on.
Visionary thinking is often not initially rewarded. But time will prove that this is the right way
forward.
Incidentally, our 16 YO Son rides to SAMOHI as well as all over the City. The bike racks at
SAMOHI are full to overflowing. Kids understand the beauty of being on a bike. I would hope
they are afforded safe passage to school and elsewhere around the City and Bike
infrastructure is vital for them if nothing else.
I can't make it for the upcoming Council Meeting, but wanted to make sure my voice on this
matter was heard.
Sincerely, Bart Petty
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 641 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Susan McCorry
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 8:25:56 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I have lived in Santa Monica for over 50 years, I have been fortunate enough to have worked
here as well and was able to ride my bike to work and then up to SMC for classes. I
appreciated all the bikeways, along Broadway and 17th street and Main Street!
Surely you have noticed the increase in bad, dangerous driving on our streets, seemingly
worsened by the pandemic!
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same.
To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users
is morally wrong.
Thank you so much, Susan
Susan McCorry 310-392-9244
“We're all just walking each other home." Ram Dass
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 642 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Chasen Daniels
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 10:37:58 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of
our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong. Signed, Chasen Daniels
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 643 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:greg chasen
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 12:50:44 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. Protected
bike lanes are the way forward - as many European cities have shown.
I drive through this area regularly and the design seems to be working as designed - drivers
simply need to slow down and pay a bit more attention.
Greg Chasen
1318 10th St
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 644 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Luke Willoughby
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 7:50:47 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do
the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong. This bike lane has been a boon for my and my families commuting since it’s opening. We now have the
safest route from our home to SMC and it has made my four year old daughter’s time on a bike immeasurably safer.
This is also keeping more of our cars off the road, making it easier for drivers to commute and park as well. This
step forward has been incredible proof that the cities future infrastructure is built for us and our children. Santa
Monica is better everyday we add more people powered infrastructure!
Signed,
Lukas Willoughby
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 645 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Michael Etzel
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:40:27 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Looking forward to many more bikeways in Santa Monica for the future, including Pico Blvd.
Further delay on implementation of bikeways will impede hard fought progress.
Signed,
Michael Etzel
2400 Beverley Ave
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 646 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Stacia Vinar
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:16:33 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of
our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
Signed, Stacia Vinar
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 647 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Saba Shevidi
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:31:29 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong. I use the bike line every day and it is the only step towards progress. It will
significantly decrease fatalities in our neighborhood and is good for everyone, especially
families. Do not let yourself be inappropriately influenced by the car lobbying culture that is
inappropriately ingrained in a select few people.
Signed,
Saba Shevidi, MD
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 648 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Brendon Bolin
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:21:10 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Signed,
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 649 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:jcrtll
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:22:55 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Signed,
Josh Cretella
jcrtll@protonmail.com
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 650 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Robert Coleman
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:23:20 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of
our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
Robert Coleman
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 651 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Brian St. Onge
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:25:09 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council members Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same!
To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
I encourage you to rent a Metro bike and ride from the 17th train station to Arizona (in the new bike lane) then East
(open bike lane) to 23rd, turn around and head back on Arizona west to 16th, park the bike at the new Metro bike
parking. Let’s invite all of the council members to experience the ride.
Brian St. Onge
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 652 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Eos Montana
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 9:23:49 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same.
Bike lanes are crucial to the safety of riders, which encourage bike usage, positively affect our
environment and traffic.
Please consider supporting the bike lane.
Signed,
Robert Tardiff
5033816528
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 653 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Oscar Duenas
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:33:23 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong. AND A WASTE OF MONEY. Let the current project finish.
Signed,
Oscar
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 654 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:DEREK LEAVITT
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:35:24 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council members Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to
do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.Signed,
Thanks,
Derek...
310.930.6517
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 655 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Justin Keenen
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:37:11 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same.
Safety for cyclists is non negotiable, lives are at stake.
I regularly use these bike lanes and therefore use less gas and produce less emissions. We
should Be encouraging this behavior.
Thank you.
Justin Keenen
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 656 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:arjun.mody1@gmail.com
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 9:48:20 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by
jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
Signed,
Arjun Mody
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 657 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jai Paton
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:51:30 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same.
Those who oppose the bike lane due to driver ineptitude miss the entire point of why they are
there in the first place. These drivers who endanger themselves and others should not be
pandered to. If you believe that it's worth scoring political points supporting the removal of
bike-safety measures then by all means, but know that any further cyclist fatalities are on your
hands henceforth.
Santa Monica is a beautiful, easily accessible city. Why are we kowtowing to poor drivers and
making our city less safe? Stand with cyclists.
Signed,
Jaikrishan (Jai) Paton
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 658 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Pete Neumann
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:52:36 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Seriously, don't let a bunch of loudmouths on NextDoor sway you to make a poor decision.
Signed,
Pete Neumann
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 659 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Leonora
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:52:51 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. As a parent,
my children's safety, and that of all children in our community, is a priority I hold close to my
heart. Santa Monica is not just a city to us but our home, a place where we want our children
to grow, learn, and play safely. Bicycle riding, an activity our family cherishes, not only
provides health benefits and an appreciation for the outdoors, but also promotes a sense of
independence and responsibility among our young ones. The importance of maintaining a safe
environment for such activities cannot be overstated.
The 17th Street Bikeway presents an opportunity to ensure our city is not just car-friendly, but
also bicycle-friendly, catering to users of all ages and abilities. Such an initiative can
significantly enhance our community's safety, while also promoting sustainable transportation
and a healthier lifestyle among our residents.
Signed,
Leonora Camner
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 660 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jonathan Haski
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:06:48 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of
our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong. Signed,
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 661 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Karen Meyer-Roux
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:06:48 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Mr. Brock,
In your campaign for City Council, you have promised to focus on public safety, have stressed
the importance of clean air (https://www.votebrock.org/), and have promised to listen to
residents.
I urge you to look at the transformation of the city of Paris where many bicycle lanes have
been implemented in the past several years. Residents have noted that the air is much cleaner,
there is less traffic, and there has been 0 deaths due to traffic this Spring
(see: https://twitter.com/EmmanuelSPV/status/1667080222183768068)
This is happening in a city where it rains all the time and where most streets are so narrow, it
was hard to imagine how this could be implemented.
Because of its climate and its relatively small size, Santa Monica is the ideal city for a large
implementation of protected bike lanes. This would reduce--in the long run--traffic,
dangerous gas emissions, and remember:
no pedestrian (or cyclist) has ever been killed by a bicyclist!
This would make the city much safer for our children and would allow them to have much
greater independence and the ability to ride to school by bike safely.
I have used as a cyclist the bike lane on 17th Street several times since it was recently
implemented - it's a wonderful north-south axis for those that need to go to the Metro, to
SAMOHI, or to stores like the Coop. It will help with sustainability -- cleaner air -- and will
encourage residents in Santa Monica who don't feel safe bicycling (who could blame them?)
to do so.
I understand that this was probably an expensive undertaking, but as a cyclist I have felt much
more safe using the protected bike lane there than the lanes that are only painted on 11th and
14th street.
I have also driven that street before and after the implementation of the bike lane and find that
it's the perfect width for driving at a safe speed. Drivers in the Los Angeles area are used to
extremely wide roads that allow them to go at unsafe speeds in residential neighborhoods. As
I'm writing this email, I just saw another driver drive at full speed down my residential street
,forgetting also that one not only is supposed to slow down at the sight of stop signs but also
do a full stop and forgetting that this is a residential street that is crossed regularly by
children. 17th Street will oblige drivers to drive at a speed that is safer for all in a residential
community.
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do as you promised in your
campaign for City Council, and do the same.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 662 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
Sincerely,
Karen Meyer-Roux
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 663 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Kush Mittal
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:07:18 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do
the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong. Me and my family regularly use this route while commuting between our home and the Santa Monica
college.
Thanks
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 664 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:yung heartburn
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:09:50 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of
our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong. Signed, Jake Zambas, a cyclist in
Santa Monica
--
jake zambas
310.975.4331
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 665 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Ferris Kawar
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 11:50:50 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
As a driver, cyclists, Santa Monica resident and employee who also works in this
City, I ask you to support the 17th Street Bikeway. If we want to avoid being
gridlocked with cars, we need to build an infrastructure of safe, separated bike
routes to encourage more people to cycle. This new route feeds right to SMC and
will help many students and employees feel safe enough ride, rather than drive. If
we want to get to the next level of cycling participation, we need the proper
infrastructure, otherwise we are doomed to gridlock again and again.
Thank you,
Ferris Kawar
90405
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 666 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Sharon Keasling
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:13:02 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by
jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong. Instead of undermining this
project that the taxpayers have paid for why not look at making the speed limit on that street lower or maybe make
17th a one way street! Please try to work together with the City Mobility Department to advance a bike friendly
community. One where all members of Santa Monica are Safe and Protected. Thank you.
Signed,
Sharon Keasling
Sent from my iPhone
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 667 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Sophie Giessel
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:13:47 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. I live on Broadway and use the
lanes daily. Since putting them in, I’ve definitely used them to explore my neighborhood more and connect more to
my community. Taking them away would be a shame and goes against the ideas that draw people to this city to
begin with.
Signed,
Sophie Giessel
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 668 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Allyn George
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:25:23 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by
jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally egregious.
Signed,
Allyn George
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 669 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jamie Ehrlich
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:25:27 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Signed,
Jamie Ehrlich
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 670 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Kathryn Hewitt
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:26:26 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre and all council members,
We need more protected bikeways like the 17th Street and the Ocean Avenue bikeways to
encourage cleaner transportation and keep bicyclists safe. My husband was hit twice by cars
while riding on unprotected bike paths and with more protected bike paths he might be
encouraged to try riding again.
I never felt safe going bike riding with our grandson on the green bike lanes, but we love the
new protected path and can travel safely so much farther.
Please don’t jeopardize the new biking infrastructure. I understand difficulties with parking
and exiting cars and slower traffic these changes cause, but think of the greater good of the
community. Our own street in Santa Monica was changed from a four lane roadway into a two
lane with bike paths, and traffic has slowed and it is trickier exiting the car, but we adapted. It
was worth it to see the increase in bike riders every year which results in less pollution and
folks getting more healthy exercise.
Thank you for your time.
Kathryn Hewitt
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 671 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Dan Moses
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 5:26:31 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by
jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
Signed,
Dan Moses
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 672 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Daniel Yakobian
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:16:04 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Signed,
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 673 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Lynley Closson
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 3:02:21 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. Many of our
Santa Monica neighbors utilize the amazing bike paths that we have in Santa Monica, and we
deserve to keep those sacred. It's important to have modes of transit, such as biking and
busing, that limit the amount of carbon we put into the air. Please keep our streets safe,
walkable, and bikeable.
Signed,
Lynley Closson
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 674 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Timothy Nguyen
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 3:03:14 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of
our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong. There are improvements that are
already being implemented to address most of the valid concerns: any opposition at this point
feels unnecessary and poorly motivated.
Signed, Timothy Nguyen
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 675 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Leslie Bogart
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 3:38:50 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. As a biker
I feel safer on 17th than in most other areas of Santa Monica.
However care should be addressed for the handicapped who live on the street and
please talk to first responders as they might appreciate and even need minor changes to the
area in the event of an emergency. .
Signed,
Leslie Bogart
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 676 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Carl Burdick
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 3:42:37 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. I utilize
the new protected bike paths in Santa Monica on a weekly/daily basis and they are fantastic!
Santa Monica is on path to have the most comprehensive safe cycling network in
southern california, and possibly the nation, and this should be something to be proud of. It
has the potential to change the way tens of thousands of southern Californians live for the
better, and set Santa Monica as a shining example of what a sustainable transportation network
can look like! To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's
vulnerable road users is morally wrong and I urge you to support expanding sustainable transit
and safe cycling infrastructure in Santa Monica into the future.
Signed,
Carl Burdick
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 677 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Colbey Waggoner
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 3:48:31 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score political points by
jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
Signed,
Colbey Waggoner
Sent from my iPhone
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 678 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Kimmie Nguyen
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 3:50:43 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and the proposal the peel ball hard-won,
hard-fought safety improvements is hugely irresponsible. To score political points by
jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
I was a bike and transit commuter in West LA for several years before moving more recently.
Over those years commuting to Santa Monica, I had many near misses with vehicles because
there wasn’t a dedicated space for me to exist on the road. There are many different things we
can blame for our unsafe infrastructure, but this is a systemic problem and the roots of
prioritizing cars above people goes deep.
I know a change from the status quo is difficult and scary, but please rest assured that these
changes are impacting people like me for the better. Attempts to scale back these
improvements are wildly short sighted and irresponsible, and will directly result in injuries and
deaths of Angelenos just trying to get home, to school, or work.
Best,
Kimmie Nguyen
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 679 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Alison Rosenman
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 4:27:05 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong. I regularly use this bikeway to exercise, commute, and enjoy Santa Monica's local
businesses.
Signed,
Alison Rosenman
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 680 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Tessa Pargiter-Hatem
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 5:05:00 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do
the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Tessa Pargiter-Hatem
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 681 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Preston Melbourneweaver
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 7:07:01 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do
the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.Signed,
Preston Melbourneweaver
(530) 613-2714
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 682 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Cassandra S
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; +jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov
Subject:16D:+Support+for+17th+Street+Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 1:27:09 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear+Councilmembers+Brock+and+de+la+Torre,I+support+the+17th+Street+Bikeway+in+Santa+Monica+and+urge+you+to+do+the+same.+To+score+political+points+by+jeopardizing+the+safety+of+our+community's+vulnerable+road+users+is+morally+wrong.Signed,
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 683 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Craig Mulligan
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; +jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov
Subject:16D:+Support+for+17th+Street+Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:27:16 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear+Councilmembers+Brock+and+de+la+Torre,I+support+the+17th+Street+Bikeway+in+Santa+Monica+and+urge+you+to+do+the+same.+To+score+political+points+by+jeopardizing+the+safety+of+our+community's+vulnerable+road+users+is+morally+wrong.Signed,craig
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 684 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:April DS
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; +jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov
Subject:16D:+Support+for+17th+Street+Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:31:58 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear+Councilmembers+Brock+and+de+la+Torre,
I+support+the+17th+Street+Bikeway+in+Santa+Monica+and+urge+you+to+do+the+same.+To+score+political+points+by+jeopardizing+the+safety+of+our+community's+vulnerable+road+users+is+morally+wrong.
Our future in Santa Monica must include a robust bicycle infrastructure to keep our K-12 and college students, seniors, commuters, and recreational riders safe when riding bicycles. People on bicycles help keep our
air cleaner and our streets safer.
I am a resident and voter who uses the bus, my bike, my feet, and my car to get around our city.
Sincerely,
April
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 685 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Helen Fraser
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov
Subject:16D:+Support+for+17th+Street+Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 9:14:28 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council-members Brock and De la Torre,
I strongly support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and have been using it daily - I finally feel safe enough
to cycle to work now these protected bike paths have been created. Likewise, my kids are now more confident to
cycle to school now they feel less vulnerable on the road. We are driving less, spending less money on gas, reducing
car pollution and getting more exercise, improving our mental and physical health. The improvements that have
been made over the last few months to create these safe bike paths have been a blessing for our community and we
feel we are being taken care of. I urge you to not backtrack on these significant improvements in our neighborhood
and to fully support them. These bike lanes are making Santa Monica a safer place while reducing the dependence
on cars, which is a huge win win.
Sincerely
Helen Fraser
Santa Monica resident.
Sent from my iPhone
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 686 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Debbie Preston
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:17th St Bike Lane
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:34:08 PM
EXTERNAL
Just a Santa Monica resident NOT SUPPORTING the 17th St Bike Lane. What on the world were you people
thinking?
Debbie Preston
Sent from my iPhone
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 687 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:madeleine gallay
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:17th Street Bike Situation
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 9:03:57 AM
EXTERNAL
Good morning,
Sadly this bike path has caused problems and I so encourage the removal of this to allow a better, safer
plan.
It's been disruptive with confusion for motorists, and obviously vehicles not understanding what to do
can cause great harm and injuries.
Thank you.
Madeleine Rogow
310-871-8292
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 688 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Sheila Goldberg
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Agend Item 16 B
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 12:06:05 PM
EXTERNAL
I write in support of Agenda Item 16 B. I appreciate the City wanting to make our
communities safer for all by restrictions on the sale of guns in Santa Monica.
I hope other cities will follow your lead
Best,
Sheila Goldberg
--
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 689 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Peter DiChellis
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Agenda Item 16B Firearms
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 2:57:53 PM
EXTERNAL
In one of the least safe cities in California, a full ten (10) months after LASD transferred responsibility, there is still no Santa Monica CCW application process,
yet you demand these restrictions be processed in 60 days?
Another lawsuit in the making? The City must be flush with money.
“City Could Face Lawsuit Over New Gun Licensing Fee” - in Santa Monica Lookout
https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News-2023/March-
2023/03_20_2023_City_Could_Face_Lawsuit_Over_New_Gun_Licensing_Fee.html__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!tTO5SCYsvDc1ltOfCNR_XsUmWB6TE-
xNFshllVVKYjL4fZkOBHTBSOHaX2XTYIPSQtV2VtnK-cCVRXn6ogux811CUQj6qV8$
“City Faces Potential Lawsuit For Raising CCW Fees” in Canyon News
https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.canyon-news.com/city-faces-potential-lawsuit-for-raising-ccw-
fees/168267__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!tTO5SCYsvDc1ltOfCNR_XsUmWB6TE-xNFshllVVKYjL4fZkOBHTBSOHaX2XTYIPSQtV2VtnK-
cCVRXn6ogux811Cu_uwv2o$
Attorney interprets Torosis stated CCW position - on twitter
https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://twitter.com/MorosKostas/status/1636167340269404162__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!tTO5SCYsvDc1ltOfCNR_XsUmWB6TE-
xNFshllVVKYjL4fZkOBHTBSOHaX2XTYIPSQtV2VtnK-cCVRXn6ogux811CbAjpdk0$
Sincerely,
Peter DiChellis
Santa Monica 90403
-END-
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 690 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:zinajosephs@aol.com
To:councilmtgitems; Caroline Torosis; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre;
Phil Brock
Cc:zinajosephs@aol.com
Subject:City Council 6/13 agenda item 16-B: SUPPORT
Date:Friday, June 9, 2023 5:10:14 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis and City Council members,
I strongly support 6/13 agenda item 16-B re the need for an ordinance to restrict gun sales in Santa
Monica, plus any additional measures that could help keep guns out of the hands of children.
Thank you for your consideration.
Zina Josephs
16B.Request of Councilmembers Torosis, Councilmember Zwick, and Mayor Davis that the
Council direct the City Manager and the City Attorney to, within 60 days, draft an
ordinance for council adoption to restrict the sale of guns in Santa Monica and propose
additional gun owner responsibilities. This ordinance should be based on best practices
from other jurisdictions, stakeholder engagement, and consultation with subject
matter experts.New Item Received. 6/09/2023
Staff Report Printout
a.Firearm Safety Motion_Torosis 06132023
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 691 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:William Perdomo
To:councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de
la Torre
Subject:Common Sense Gun Measures
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:39:38 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica Council Members,
I am asking that you please support the motion made by Council Members
Torosis and Zwick and Mayor Davis, to restrict and regulate the sales and
future sales of firearms in Santa Monica. It is critically important that
during a time when there are over 300 American gun injuries daily, Santa
Monica is doing all it can to protect its community from gun violence,
including taking precautionary, common-sense measures at sites where
firearms are stored, sold and accessed. Please also consider any
additional regulations that will increase public safety against the threat of
gun violence including gun-owner liability insurance and safe storage
standards for homes and vehicles - policies that are supported by many
responsible gun owners.”
As Santa Monica is our neighbor, their policies directly impact the safety of
our community here in Culver City.
Thank you
-Will
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 692 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:John Tapia
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:Fifth generation Santa Monica resident here16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 2:11:22 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Signed,
Get Outlook for Android
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 693 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Sonya Sones
To:David White; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Christine
Parra; councilmtgitems
Cc:sonya Sones
Subject:FOR THE PUBLIC RECORD REGARDING ITEM 16D OF THE AGENDA ON 1/13/23
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 4:54:24 PM
EXTERNAL
I am 71 and have been riding my bike to get around Santa Monica for decades. I took
my first ride this week on the 17th Street protected bikeway. And was it ever
WONDERFUL! I felt a thousand times safer than I ever have in the those painted
green bike lanes. I will definitely be using it as my go-to north/south street, even if I
have to go out of my way for a few blocks to access it! I think once more cyclists try it
out, they will positively feel the same way. And as a result, more of us will be cycling
more and more.
Cycling is a win-win-win – good for our bodies, good for our pocketbooks, and good
for the environment! The more people who are cycling instead of driving in Santa
Monica, the healthier they will be, the more money they will have to spend in Santa
Monica instead of spending it on gas, the less traffic there will be, the more tourist-
friendly SM will be, the better the air quality will be, and the more we will all be
contributing to Santa Monica’s incredibly important fight to help slow down climate
change!
Any steps to roll back (no pun intended) any of the new protected lanes, or to prevent
plans for building more of them in the future, would be a real shame... Tragic, even.
Cycle for Santa Monica! Cruise for climate change!
Sonya Sones
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 694 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Melody Hansen
To:councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de
la Torre
Subject:Gun Safety in Santa Monica
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:31:46 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I am asking that you please support the motion made by Council Members Torosis
and Zwick and Mayor Davis, to restrict and regulate the sales and future sales of
firearms in Santa Monica. It is critically important that during a time when there are
over 300 American gun injuries daily, Santa Monica is doing all it can to protect its
community from gun violence, including taking precautionary, common-sense
measures at sites where firearms are stored, sold and accessed. Please also
consider any additional regulations that will increase public safety against the threat
of gun violence including gun-owner liability insurance and safe storage standards for
homes and vehicles - policies that are supported by many responsible gun owners.
As Santa Monica is a neighbor to many other small cities as well as the west side of
greater Los Angeles, your policies directly impact the safety of these other
neighboring communities as well.
Thank you,
Melody Hansen
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 695 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Grace Stees
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I am against item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 11:05:53 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
This is very important to me as a new mother. When I think about my family navigating
streets in Santa Monica by biking or walking, as is our main mode of transportation, I feel
comfort and pride in knowing that added investments in bike infrastructure will continue to
make Santa Monica one of the safer and most bikeable cities in the area. It's a no brainier --
drivers in this area are maniacs and need all the physical guardrails the city can install. Twice
this year I have seen cars flipped UPSIDE DOWN in the streets between Wilshire and
Montana. This terrifies me. Don't ignore the data -- bike lanes help everyone.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Grace Stees
1131 California Ave 90403
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 696 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Bill Tugurian
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I Do Not Support Item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:59:11 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
William K. Tugurian
921 16th Street, Santa Monica, 90403
M. 917.509.7106
@. tugurian@gmail.com
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 697 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Michael Karric
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 11:41:43 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%.
Additionally, the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of
a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
As a nearby resident who works in Santa Monica by bike, I love biking to SM, spending my
money at your stores and shops and bringing my family here. I feel immediately safer once I
reach the city limits because it's clearly being built for PEOPLE not cars.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects and helping
support small businesses by continuing to make Santa Monica an accessible and attractive
destination, not studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Michael Karric
Beverly Hills, 90211
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 698 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Adam Faruqi
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 12:52:54 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
Please do not pass Item 16D. The value of protected bicycle infrastructure has been proven
over and over and over again all over the world. Santa Monica has in recent years proven itself
as a champion for bikeable, walkable streets, and the world has taken notice! I've seen so
many youtube videos and articles praising the improved livability of our Santa Monica streets.
It has also been proven in countless studies that making changes to road infrastructure in the
interest of vehicle throughput or vehicle travel time is disastrous on the health of everyone in
the area, pedestrians, cyclists, and even drivers! So please, ignore the foolish whining from
people who want to undo all the excellent work we've done so far. I highly encourage the city
to implement MORE bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and reduce car travel lanes and car
parking even further! Such measures are being taken throughout such places as the
Netherlands and Paris (and Santa Monica) to great effect. These areas have become so much
quieter and more livable. There is no need for further study to determine whether bicycle and
pedestrian infrastructure is healthy, as they so obviously are. So please, vote against 16D.
Thank you,
A concerned citizen,
Adam Faruqi
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 699 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Boris Suchkov
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:50:18 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I moved to Santa Monica in large part because it is one of the few places in all of Southern California where I can
live my daily life with minimum need for a car. Where actual progress has been made when it comes to safer streets,
and where the quality of life has actually been improving through the build out of a rational network of bike lanes.
My wife and I have been using the 17th St bike lane a lot more now that it is protected. It’s the middle leg of our
route when we pick up our daughter from the YMCA by cargo bike. And even when using our car, I find myself
driving on 17th St more as well, because the traffic has been calmed.
Any attempt to dilute or slow down the further development of the city’s bike network - approved as a master plan
years ago, but caught up in endless red tape as it is - would be a travesty.
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has been proven throughout
the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces collisions and injuries for all road users
(including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally, the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica
outside of a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Boris Suchkov
29th St, 90405
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 700 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:John Lin
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 4:38:50 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
The form is much more sedate, so I'll just stick to that for the most part, but I'll add, if you're
just bored, I have a list of issues I'd like addressed to improve the Expo line trail instead of
wasting money on 16D.
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
John Lin
Lincoln Ct 90404
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 701 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Sam Shapiro-Kline
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 9:26:33 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Sam Shapiro-Kline
90403
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 702 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jon Mizrahi
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 9:30:12 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Jonathan
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 703 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Carter Rubin
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 9:30:32 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D, which is an unnecessary and counterproductive exercise that
will tie up staff's limited capacity and detract from their important work to make our streets
and neighborhoods more livable and connected.
Santa Monica's growing network of protected lanes is coming into its own thanks to the
decade of vision and implementation undertaken by the city. Our network is the envy of the
region.
Every day I bike my kid to school and see more and more parents with their kids on e-cargo-
bikes. They deserve safe streets. And they are taking cars off the road.
This 16D item is not needed. I bike and drive on 17th regularly and have had no issue
navigating through intersections and making turns.
People who say they're having a hard time making turns at the new intersections are telling on
themselves and the lack of care with which they normally drive. The new street design is
helping them make more prudent, safer turns rather than cut corners at high speed where there
used to be a greater risk of vehicle-pedestrian collisions.
Best,
Carter
Thank you,
Carter Rubin
Pico Neighborhood
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 704 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Kevin Cheng
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:03:51 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has been proven throughout
the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces collisions and injuries for all road users
(including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally, the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica
outside of a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Kevin Cheng
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 705 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Matt Wiepking
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:38:39 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of
a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Santa Monica is improving, becoming safer for cyclists and drivers, and becoming easier to navigate in an
environmentally friendly way. The last several months has made me proud to live here and encouraged to stay.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Matt Wiepking
Main St.
90405
Sent from my iPhone
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 706 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Gary Riichirō Fox
To:Caroline Torosis; Christine Parra; councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre;
Phil Brock
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:38:53 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I write in order to urge you not to pass Item 16D. Bike lanes are crucial to Santa Monica
becoming a world class city, attracting talent, investment, and livability for future generations.
According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces collisions and injuries for all
road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally, the city’s investment is making it
possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and
making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Gary
32nd Street 90405
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 707 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Christian Schnaible
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:50:47 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true.
Specifically, I hope that similar projects to the 17th street bike lanes can begin soon on 11th
and 14th. (They are in the master bike plan passed in 2020!) I drive those roads every day to
drop my child off at day care and I really, really want a safe option to ride my bike with my
child instead of driving. Unprotected lanes are not enough!
Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Christian Schnaible
12th and California, 90403
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 708 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Gregg Chadwick
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:51:30 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
As a Santa Monica homeowner, small business owner, and an avid bicycle rider - I ask that
you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has been
proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer for my family, Santa Monica
residents, tourists, and visitors to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Gregg Chadwick
2308 Schader Drive
Santa Monica, CA 90404
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 709 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jason Mooradian
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:I Support 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 4:42:22 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong. The city moving on the right path of making roads safer and going backwards is a huge
mistake.
Thanks,
Jason
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 710 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Allie Mirosevic
To:councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de
la Torre
Subject:Item 16-B
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:26:13 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I am asking that you please support the motion made by Council Members Torosis
and Zwick and Mayor Davis, to restrict and regulate the sales and future sales of
firearms in Santa Monica. It is critically important that during a time when there are
over 300 American gun injuries daily, Santa Monica is doing all it can to protect its
community from gun violence, including taking precautionary, common-sense
measures at sites where firearms are stored, sold and accessed.
Please also consider any additional regulations that will increase public safety against
the threat of gun violence including gun-owner liability insurance and safe storage
standards for homes and vehicles - policies that are supported by many responsible
gun owners.
Thank you,
Allie Mirosevic
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 711 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Daniel Hall
To:Caroline Torosis; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Oscar de la Torre; Phil Brock; councilmtgitems;
David White; Jesse Zwick
Subject:Item 16D - I Support 17th Street Bicycle Safety Improvements
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:16:06 AM
Attachments:F5ED6388-A8B7-4682-9113-DE7F4FF2DB66.png
EXTERNAL
Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, Councilmembers Brock, de la Torre, Parra, Torosis,
and Zwick:
I am writing in support of the bicycle safety improvements made on 17th Street and
request that we continue to install similar improvements across the city. PLEASE DO
NOT WASTE CITY RESOURCES “STUDYING” WHAT IS NATIONALLY
CONSIDERED TO BE A BEST PRACTICE BY POLICY PROFESSIONALS AND
ENGINEERS.
Bicycle is my primary means of transportation locally; my partner and I are a one car
household. We chose to make Santa Monica our home because of its commitment to bicycle
safety and infrastructure improvements (among other progressive values and initiatives).
I run past the intersection of 17th and Arizona every morning with my dog. I can confirm
that the bicycle lane corner islands in the intersection ARE WORKING AS INTENDED.
The islands there and on Broadway are designed using National Association of City
Transportation Officials (NACTO) guidelines to slow traffic at the intersection and
protect bicyclists. Here is the diagram from NACTO’s Protected Intersection design
standards guidelines, which our city uses.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 712 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
Tighter turns caused by the islands require slower speeds, forcing drivers to be more aware of
the other vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians at the intersections. With curb radii of 10-15 ft,
the curbs guide drivers to take the turn at 10 mph or slower. Below is a graph showing
driver yielding rates and travel speeds at intersections (from a 2005 study on drivers yielding
to pedestrians). At lower speeds, drivers yield at a higher rate to other users of the intersection.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 713 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
Before the islands on 17th street intersections were installed, I watched vehicles race to beat
the lights on their way to appointments or work. I was almost hit a few times even. Now,
vehicles ARE NOTICEABLY SLOWER. Any complaints you have received about how one
must drive slower now on 17th street are great… it means THE IMPROVEMENTS ARE
WORKING.
The protective islands also INCREASE BICYCLIST VISIBILITY. In a conventional
intersection, bicyclists spend a longer time in a driver’s blind spot. This sets up an unresolved
conflict which forces the bicyclist to be prepared for evasive action even though they have the
right of way. With a greater angle of approach to the bicyclist (60+ degrees is ideal), the
bicyclist becomes visible sooner and out of the driver’s blind spot. See below images for a
pictorial explanation.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 714 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
I highly encourage Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre to not WASTE
RESOURCES such as staff time and money for the study proposed in Item 16D.
Thousands of hours of research have gone into these design standards, considered best practice
across the country by mobility engineers.
Please see NACTO’s Urban Bikeway Design Guide (https://nacto.org/publication/urban-
bikeway-design-guide/) for further research before voting on this item.
Thank you,
Dan Hall
--
Daniel Hall
C: 310.570.6942
LinkedIn
Pronouns: he/him
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 715 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Ananda Day
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline
Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:ITEM 16D 6.13.23 & Future Needed Infrastructure
Date:Saturday, June 10, 2023 11:05:23 AM
EXTERNAL
Dearest Council-
I wanted to write regarding 16D and the recent improvements to Santa Monica Bike
Infrastructure.
- Most importantly: The “Safe Streets for 17th Street and Michigan Avenue” and the concrete
barricade on Ocean have been huge improvements. As a cyclist and driver, they are much
needed and late in coming.
- After having lived in Santa Monica for five years, I hope we can continue infrastructure
improvements such as this to encourage people who want a community and safety to stay in
Santa Monica instead of slipping backwards. I look to cities like New York and each borough
truly paving the way with new cycling infrastructure. My hope is one day Santa Monica can
be regarded as a similar leader and in turn reap the benefits as a municipality and community.
- Regarding the turn radius at 17th & Broadway under concern it's utter nonsense and
nimbyism at its finest. Please refer to this globally recognized cycling infrastructure resource:
The Global Street Design Guide... And the fact that the corner has been tested from fire trucks
to cars today.
https://globaldesigningcities.org/publication/global-street-design-guide/
- If someone has a problem they should learn to drive better.
- On that note it would be wonderful to have learning to drive with cyclists as part of our city
curriculum and part of our license test requirements. My wife who is English constantly
comments on how mind boggling it is that we do NOT have this in the US.
On that note I hope as a city we can focus on increasing the speed and implementation of safe
cycling infrastructure and spend less time talking about baseless proposals like 16D.
Best
Ananda Day & Lucy Mannall, 3rd St
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 716 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Brandon Curran
To:Christine Parra; Council Mailbox; councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Jesse Zwick; Phil Brock
Subject:ITEM 16D 6.13.23
Date:Friday, June 9, 2023 8:05:41 PM
EXTERNAL
The “Safe Streets for 17th Street and Michigan Avenue” project has already proven to be working verywell.
It’s based on robust data, community outreach, planning and engineering done by people who know whatthey’re talking about (unlike the person behind this item), and it is being used daily by thousands ofpeople either they’re on 2 wheels, on foot, or in ridiculously giant trucks just fine.The few people who complain that it is too hard for drivers to navigate probably shouldn’t be driving, somodifying the infrastructure for these people’s convenience would be quite ridiculous.
Regarding the turn radius at 17th & Broadway that this council member seems to be concerned about, itwas tested by the largest fire truck that the city owns; and yes, it passed the test.
It’s not even completed yet (so close though!(, and it’s already being talked about in a very positive lightall over the county.Just look at the response every time the city posts something about the new bike infrastructure on social,the posts blow up way more than anything else they post, and for the right reasons:https://twitter.com/santamonicacity/status/1664708762622480395?cxt=HHwWlsC-qZbznZouAAAAhttps://twitter.com/santamonicacity/status/1662534207556530178?cxt=HHwWhMC9xbSDwZIuAAAA Also making headlines already:https://la.urbanize.city/post/new-bike-infrastructure-debuts-17th-street-and-ocean-avenue-santa-monica
This item would be costly and a waste of staff’s time.Mobility staff is already extremely busy with much more important/relevant tasks, and understaffed (theylost staff through COVID cuts).
Our safety and our future matter more than some old NIMBY’s uninformed opinion.
--
Sincerely,
Brandon Curran
https://brandoncurran.medium.com/
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 717 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jeremy Yoshioka
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline
Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:Item 16D 6.13.23
Date:Saturday, June 10, 2023 2:45:06 PM
EXTERNAL
I am West LA born and raised (venice/centinela). I rode my bicycle to Beethoven, Mark Twain, and Venice High
school, and now I continue to ride my bike to work in the Venice/MDR area. I run errands, visit friends, and enjoy
free time at the many restaurants Santa Monica has to offer, all by bike. The Safe Streets projects has made my life
better in that I do not feel as endangered riding my bike in the bike lane as I do on Venice blvd and other streets. It is
clear that these bike lanes were very well thought out by people with engineering degrees and civil planning
degrees.
As long as the design of these bike lanes does not interfere with emergency responders (which I heard that it was
tested with the biggest SMFD trucks which is very cool!), I think they should be as protective as possible for our
most vulnerable road users: those not inside of thousand pound metal boxes.
Changing the design to accommodate bad drivers seems backwards. Bad drivers should be the ones to accommodate
modern
safe street designs by becoming better drivers!
I know the council will do what is best for it’s constituents, and I can’t wait for more awesome protected bike lanes.
Thank you,
Jeremy Yoshioka
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 718 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:samantha karim
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline
Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:ITEM 16D 6.13.23
Date:Friday, June 9, 2023 7:48:06 PM
EXTERNAL
The “Safe Streets for 17th Street and Michigan Avenue” project has already proven to be working very
well.
It’s based on robust data, community outreach, planning and engineering done by people who know what
they’re talking about (unlike the person behind this item), and it is being used daily by thousands of
people either they’re on 2 wheels, on foot, or in ridiculously giant trucks just fine.
The few people who complain that it is too hard for drivers to navigate probably shouldn’t be driving, so
modifying the infrastructure for these people’s convenience would be quite ridiculous.
Regarding the turn radius at 17th & Broadway that this council member seems to be concerned about, it
was tested by the largest fire truck that the city owns; and yes, it passed the test.
It’s not even completed yet (so close though!(, and it’s already being talked about in a very positive light
all over the county.
Just look at the response every time the city posts something about the new bike infrastructure on social,
the posts blow up way more than anything else they post, and for the right reasons:
https://twitter.com/santamonicacity/status/1664708762622480395?cxt=HHwWlsC-qZbznZouAAAA
https://twitter.com/santamonicacity/status/1662534207556530178?cxt=HHwWhMC9xbSDwZIuAAAA
Also making headlines already:
https://la.urbanize.city/post/new-bike-infrastructure-debuts-17th-street-and-ocean-avenue-santa-monica
This item would be costly and a waste of staff’s time.
Mobility staff is already extremely busy with much more important/relevant tasks, and understaffed (they
lost staff through COVID cuts).
The report from Sustainable Communities and ClimateProtection Act, Senate Bill (SB) 375 shows
unless we start to do things differently (such as encouraging more cycling) we will NOT be on
track for our climate goals with just EV's.
Samantha Karim
ZIP 90404
323 371 0955
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 719 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Leo Ho
To:councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline
Torosis; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:ITEM 16D 6.13.23
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 11:17:31 PM
EXTERNAL
Hello,
I am writing because I am very happy about the project "Safe Streets for 17th Street and Michigan
Avenue." As someone who enjoys biking around Santa Monica, I am really really grateful for the steps
being taken to make it a safer city for everyone.
Regarding the corner at 17th street and Broadway, you should certainly be more concerned with the
safety of people walking and biking than with the speed at which bad drivers can or cannot make the turn.
It has already been proven to meet safety standards by the Fire Department. This is a non-issue.
Thank you for listening and I am looking forward to seeing what awesome new accessible
infrastructure we can get next!
Sincerely,
Leo Ho
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 720 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:chris chandler
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16d on the Agenda: Regarding the bike lane on 17th
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:10:46 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council
I am writing to express my strong support for the new 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica. I
am a 25-year resident, and in the last week, I have walked, biked, driven, and taken trains and
busses from my home near Colorado and Stewart to the Downtown, Main Street, and Montana
areas of our fair City.
The new bike lanes on 17th Street and Ocean are great. Santa Monica is leading the way in the
county, the state, and maybe the country in creating safer alternatives to car travel. In the 25
years I've lived here, I've seen the culture of "nobody walks in LA" slowly change. We've got
some good options now in SM but adding more options and connections compounds the value
of the existing infrastructure.
The 17th St protected bike lane improves the options for cyclists, which obviously encourages
more people to choose biking and leave their car at home, reducing traffic congestion and air
pollution. The bike lane promotes a healthier lifestyle and fosters community and connectivity
among our city's residents.
I would like you to stand behind the fine work that has been done and not be influenced by
some overly loud voices on social media that are stirring up a stupid controversy. It is the
rarest of public officials who can really lead the way on important issues. Being known as a
bike-friendly City will provide social AND economic benefits to our community in the
coming years. Don't waste our time and treasure on pointless studies.
Removing or undermining the bike lane would be a step backward in our efforts to lead the
nation in being bike friendly. Thank you in advance for considering the well-being of our
residents and looking ahead to a glorious future for our fair city.
Sincerely,
Chris Chandler
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 721 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Kevin McKeown
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16-D
Date:Sunday, June 11, 2023 10:57:51 AM
EXTERNAL
YES on information. NO on “study."
Useful information is a good thing, and Councilmember requests for it are almost routinely passed. I anticipate an
information item on the 17th Street protected bikeway improvements will detail that project's successes, including
staff’s responsive adjustments to accommodate disability parking, etc.
However, the second part of item 16-D should not be passed. As a resident, I call on you to remove it from any
motion made.
The intersection of 17th and Broadway was improved in stages. Until the work was completed, legitimate confusion
and concerns arose from motorists and cyclists alike. Now that it is finished or near-finished, it is evident that the
configuration fulfills the international standard for safety sometimes called a “Dutch crossing.” There is no need to
“study" this, which may be just a way of demoralizing our dedicated staff and needlessly delaying further
implementation of future elements of Santa Monica’s long-term bike plan.
I realize some of you may not be familiar with the long and tested history of the “Dutch crossing,” but a full
explanation of how it works and why it’s safer has been available on YouTube for OVER TWELVE YEARS.
Please see https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=FlApbxLz6pA__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!rB44WNkx3-3I-
I1kI6GGPLiEAMvP1gbSbqyiHcSL60cRM7iwRWuV_O4BqrXjHWg8f43yATeC10Gtfn2W6oZLM_fRvVk$ .
Again, please remove the unnecessary “study” from any motion on 16-A. Staff resources are better focused on
moving forward toward safer Santa Monica streets.
In fact, given the confusion and concern generated when street safety projects are partially implemented and left
temporarily incomplete, you might consider augmenting staff resources to make the construction of future projects
faster and more certain.
Thanks,
Kevin McKeown
————————————
K e v I n M c K e o w n
https://urldefense.com/v3/__http://www.mckeown.net__;!!OfuUnHCITYtmmjM!rB44WNkx3-3I-
I1kI6GGPLiEAMvP1gbSbqyiHcSL60cRM7iwRWuV_O4BqrXjHWg8f43yATeC10Gtfn2W6oZLTHhHLTg$
Phone (310) 393-3639
“Choose to be conscious”
————————————
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 722 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Webb, Connor (Medical Student)
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:Item 16D: Support for 17th Street bike lanes and bike action plan amendment
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:35:33 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong support for the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and
urge you to reject item 16D. Our implementation of this bikeway and the construction of the
bike action plan amendment signifies our city’s commitment to the safety of all road users.
Additionally it solidifies the message that we as a community are committed to mitigating
climate change, reducing traffic, increasing equity, and making our city a place for vibrant
community. I urge you all to fully stand behind it.
In particular, the 17th St protected bike lane is crucial for encouraging people of all ages and
all walks of life to find alternatives to driving. Paint (even green paint) is not a viable form of
protection for our most vulnerable road users, and this type of lane is our chance to correct
those inadequacies. 17th St not only promotes a healthier lifestyle, but fosters a greater sense
of community and connectivity among residents.
Removing this lane, or pointlessly stalling the planning and construction of more like it with
item 16D, undermines the message that we are serious about creating a safe, sustainable, and
livable community. Ultimately, it will risk the lives of road users and residents. It is in our best
interest to commit all possible resources to moving forward with building additional cycling
and pedestrian infrastructure improvements, and item 16D is a step backwards. Thank you for
considering the safety and well-being of our residents and expediting the construction of the
bike action plan amendment.
Sincerely,
Connor Webb
Santa Monica Resident
MD-PhD Candidate
UCLA-Caltech Medical Scientist Training Program
UCLA HEALTH SCIENCES IMPORTANT WARNING: This email (and any attachments) is only intended
for the use of the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged
and confidential. You, the recipient, are obligated to maintain it in a safe, secure and confidential manner.
Unauthorized redisclosure or failure to maintain confidentiality may subject you to federal and state
penalties. If you are not the intended recipient, please immediately notify us by return email, and delete
this message from your computer.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 723 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Kabir Chopra
To:councilmtgitems
Cc:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre
Subject:June 13 Agenda Item 16D - Written Public Comment
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 11:04:10 AM
EXTERNAL
I write to express my deep disappointment in Council Member Phil Brock (“CM Brock”) for his backward decision
to request an agenda item that will undermine the 17th Street Protected Bike Lane (the “Protected Lane”) on the
City Council’s June 13th Meeting Agenda. In addition to being fiscally irresponsible, undermining the Protected
Lane makes no sense for anyone that is forward-looking, cares about the environment, and/or wants to make
Santa Monica a progressive city that encourages green transportation. There are plenty of other streets that cars
can drive on if some drivers do not like 17th Street's recent improvements. I hope the rest of the Council backs
cyclists over drivers.
Coincidentally, when I heard about CM Brock’s desire to forever lock Santa Monica into being the car-only city he
grew up in during the 1950s, my family and I were sitting at Emmy Squared Pizza after riding the Protected Lane
in the 2020s. When my wife and I received a text update about CM Brock’s plan, we told our kids about the news.
Without hesitation, the kids responded, “No!!!!! Has this person ever even ridden their bike on it? It is so
awesome.” Before that protected lane opened, there was no chance my family would have ridden our bikes
together to Emmy Squared. I am sure there are plenty of people learning about the Protected Lane’s benefits at
the very same time CM Brock is trying to close it off from our community.
I don’t know if CM Brock has ridden the Protected Lane or not, but it will not surprise me if he is offering his
antiquated vision for our city without having done so. I reckon most people who use the Protected Lane recognize
its benefits. Sure, it is not perfect—there is no way to remove the inherent risk of riding a bike on the streets in a
metropolitan area. But, the safety features of the Protected Lane are IMMEDIATELY apparent when riding
northbound beyond Wilshire where the Protected Lane converts into a normal bike lane. If CM Brock (or anyone
else) wants to see the benefits of the Protected Lane, I suggest riding on it from Santa Monica to California during
rush hour a few times to compare the protected lane to a regular bike lane.
I get it. People don’t like change. The Protected Lane also caused some real issues with elderly people and
individuals with health conditions who live on 17th Street. Those issues must be addressed. But we should
address them while protecting our city’s investment in a greener and healthier future. Many cities in the US have
completely closed off car traffic to non-residents! Why is CM Brock’s plan to close off cyclists in favor of
drivers, and waste our city's monetary investment while doing so? Don’t undermine the Protected Bike Lane, CM
Brock! Improve it by making 17th Street even more bikable!
We need a City Council that will usher our city into the future, not drag it back into the past. CM Brock has picked
his side. I hope the rest of the Council works together to stop him.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 724 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Michael Schneider
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:Please don’t pass item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 1:58:41 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has been proven throughout
the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces collisions and injuries for all road users
(including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally, the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica
outside of a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Michael Schneider
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 725 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jacob Wasserman
To:Phil Brock
Subject:Re: 16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway as Constructed: Fully Protected
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:49:53 AM
EXTERNAL
Cm. Brock,
1) The safety improvements proposed and implemented in the project have beenevaluated by experts around the world and here at home over and over again. Withthe bike lane just open, I see no need to reinvent the wheel now.
2) If you truly support a fair evaluation, please wait until there is data on bike counts,vehicle crashes, pedestrian injuries and deaths, etc. Without those, any evaluation atthis stage will find nothing of use, or at least nothing that the project planning studies
and the evaluations mentioned above don't already know.
3) "Every civic project should be evaluated once complete"—indeed. I therefore askyou to evaluate the safety of every completed roadway in Santa Monica, prioritized bynumber of crashes, injuries, and deaths. I would bet that most have not beenevaluated, on an individual, block-by-block basis, for safety, perhaps ever butespecially not in recent years. Staff time is best spent on the deadliest roads, so startthere.
Jacob Wasserman
90403
On Mon, Jun 12, 2023 at 10:41 AM Phil Brock <Phil.Brock@santamonica.gov> wrote:
Jacob -
An oral information item sixty days after project completion is not a study. It’s a simple
report. Staff have already made numerous changes to the finished design to refine the project
and will be making more incremental adjustments. This project was conceived in 2011, went
through a decade of change and the final design finished during Covid. Many residents lost
sight of the improvements and how it would eventually benefit all Santa Monica residents.
Every civic project should be evaluated once complete. This project is no different.
Best
Phil
Phil Brock
Council Member
City of Santa Monica
P: (310) 458-8201
C: (310) 560-3071
santamonica.gov
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 726 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From: Jacob Wasserman <jacoblwasserman@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, June 12, 2023 10:29:51 AM
To: Phil Brock <Phil.Brock@santamonica.gov>
Subject: Re: 16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway as Constructed: Fully Protected
EXTERNAL
Cm. Brock,
Thank you for the prompt response!
However, the fact is that the design is and will improve safety and save lives,
including the bulbouts at intersections. Further raising concerns about it, on a
project that is already in the ground, and directing staff to study and report on
safety/other issues that both our city and cities around the world have already
definitively concluded upon is a waste of staff time and taxpayer dollars.
Jacob Wasserman90403
On Mon, Jun 12, 2023 at 10:23 AM Phil Brock <Phil.Brock@santamonica.gov> wrote:
For the record, I voted for the 17th Street bikeway several times as the former chair of the
Recreation and Parks Commission. I have never been against more bikeways. I have
concerns about the “butterfly outcroppings” on several of the street corners. However, all I
have asked for is a simple status report from our city manager and transportation
department as they finish and adjust the new bikeway on 17th Street. Whoever has
decided that I am against bike paths is dead wrong.
Best
Phil
Phil Brock
Council Member
City of Santa Monica
P: (310) 458-8201
C: (310) 560-3071
santamonica.gov
From: Jacob Wasserman <jacoblwasserman@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, June 12, 2023 8:38:40 AM
To: Phil Brock <Phil.Brock@santamonica.gov>; Oscar de la Torre
<Oscar.delaTorre@santamonica.gov>
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 727 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
Cc: councilmtgitems <councilmtgitems@santamonica.gov>; Christine Parra
<Christine.Parra@santamonica.gov>; Lana Negrete <Lana.Negrete@santamonica.gov>; Jesse
Zwick <Jesse.Zwick@santamonica.gov>; Caroline Torosis <Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov>;
Gleam Davis <Gleam.Davis@santamonica.gov>
Subject: 16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway as Constructed: Fully Protected
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
As a Santa Monica resident, a bike commuter, a parent of a young kid whom Itake on walks in the area, and also a car owner, I support the 17th StreetBikeway in Santa Monica as constructed/planned—i.e., fully protected by
concrete separation—and urge you to do the same. To score political points byjeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morallywrong.
Jacob Wasserman
90403
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 728 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jacob Wasserman
To:Phil Brock
Subject:Re: 16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway as Constructed: Fully Protected
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:30:41 AM
EXTERNAL
Cm. Brock,
Thank you for the prompt response!
However, the fact is that the design is and will improve safety and save lives,including the bulbouts at intersections. Further raising concerns about it, on a projectthat is already in the ground, and directing staff to study and report on safety/otherissues that both our city and cities around the world have already definitivelyconcluded upon is a waste of staff time and taxpayer dollars.
Jacob Wasserman
90403
On Mon, Jun 12, 2023 at 10:23 AM Phil Brock <Phil.Brock@santamonica.gov> wrote:
For the record, I voted for the 17th Street bikeway several times as the former chair of the
Recreation and Parks Commission. I have never been against more bikeways. I have
concerns about the “butterfly outcroppings” on several of the street corners. However, all I
have asked for is a simple status report from our city manager and transportation department
as they finish and adjust the new bikeway on 17th Street. Whoever has decided that I am
against bike paths is dead wrong.
Best
Phil
Phil Brock
Council Member
City of Santa Monica
P: (310) 458-8201
C: (310) 560-3071
santamonica.gov
From: Jacob Wasserman <jacoblwasserman@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, June 12, 2023 8:38:40 AM
To: Phil Brock <Phil.Brock@santamonica.gov>; Oscar de la Torre
<Oscar.delaTorre@santamonica.gov>
Cc: councilmtgitems <councilmtgitems@santamonica.gov>; Christine Parra
<Christine.Parra@santamonica.gov>; Lana Negrete <Lana.Negrete@santamonica.gov>; Jesse
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 729 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
Zwick <Jesse.Zwick@santamonica.gov>; Caroline Torosis <Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov>;
Gleam Davis <Gleam.Davis@santamonica.gov>
Subject: 16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway as Constructed: Fully Protected
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
As a Santa Monica resident, a bike commuter, a parent of a young kid whom I takeon walks in the area, and also a car owner, I support the 17th Street Bikeway inSanta Monica as constructed/planned—i.e., fully protected by concrete separation
—and urge you to do the same. To score political points by jeopardizing the safetyof our community's vulnerable road users is morally wrong.
Jacob Wasserman
90403
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 730 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Will Finch
To:David White; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Christine
Parra; councilmtgitems
Subject:Re: item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 9:02:51 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council,
As a lifelong Santa Monican now living on 18th and Oak St, I wanted to express my support for
the protected bike lanes. I use the 17th St bike lane for my daily commute which I take to the
Expo Line to get to Downtown LA, and the protected lane makes this route much safer for
bicyclists. The partner of a friend of mine was killed by a car in Palm Desert on an unprotected
bike lane, so I am all too aware that painted lanes do nothing to protect bicyclists.
I also would like to be able to get around Santa Monica by bike with my elementary school
aged son, and as things are now it is not safe enough for a child except in those lanes that are
fully protected.
Please do not prioritize car transit further which is already so dominant in Santa Monica.
Bicycling is such an important component of lowering carbon emissions. Please maintain the
current level of protection, and please expand the protected bike lanes further to more
streets so bicyclists can safely get around Santa Monica!
Sincerely,
Will Finch
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 731 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Clint
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov
Subject:Subject: In Support of the 17th St Protected Bike Lane
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:33:10 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council Members,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my strong support for the recently
implemented 17th St protected bike lane in our beloved city.
As a resident who deeply values the health, safety, and environmental sustainability of our
community, I see these bike lanes as a significant step towards these goals. They not only
encourage active, healthy lifestyles, but they also provide a safer, greener alternative to
automobile travel.
I understand that there may be concerns about traffic flow or parking due to the new bike
lanes. In the grand scheme of things and looking toward the future, the potential benefits to
our community are vast. Change especially positive change can initially be difficult embrace.
Not only do these lanes help and contribute to a more sustainable city, they also make our
streets safer for cyclists, pedestrians, and even drivers alike.
Therefore, I kindly urge you and your colleagues on the City Council to uphold the
implementation of the 17th St protected bike lane. As with any change, there will be an
adjustment period, but I am confident that with time, we'll come to appreciate the benefits this
shift brings to our community.
Thank you for your attention to this matter, and for your ongoing service to our city.
Best regards, Clint Carpenter
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 732 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Yan Lhert
To:Phil Brock
Cc:Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:Subject: Item 16D: Support for the 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:38:01 AM
EXTERNAL
Hi Phil & SM City Council,
I was born and raised in Santa Monica, attending Lincoln middle school and then Santa
Monica High school. My parents were immigrants from europe, and we had very little when I
was young. My dad worked night shifts and my Mom moved away, so I had no other option
but to bike to Lincoln middle school. Back then, there were no bike lanes of any kind, and it
was terrifying sharing the road with cars as a young kid. Drivers had callous disregard, even
for a helpless child just trying to get around. Alas, I had no other option, and so I braved the
streets on my own as young as 11 years old to bike 4 miles each way to Lincoln.
I'm now back in Santa Monica and I am working on another venture funded tech startup, Oyi
Labs, which I may decide to base in Santa Monica along with my future employees. I bring an
outsized share of tax revenue to the city, and I plan on becoming more involved in local
politics as a donor. Additionally, my wife is an executive at Roku, based in the Santa Monica
office.
Santa Monica is my home, and my family has come from so little, but has worked so hard to
build and contribute to our society. My ask in return is simple: please support more bike lanes
in Santa Monica. Cars are an inefficient means of getting around a beautiful city like Santa
Monica, and there is ample evidence to show the massive harm that cars do to our people's
health and our environment. We need to give better transit options to everyone who resides
here, and not pander to the loud voices who have never tried getting around in anything but a
car. We must be open minded and be more realistic about our future, and the future of our
children.
Thank you for your time and hard work to make Santa Monica one of the best places to live
and do business!
Yan Lhert
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 733 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Kabir Chopra
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; David
White; councilmtgitems
Cc:grace@smdp.com; editor@smdp.com; letters@smdp.com; matt@smdp.com
Subject:We Don"t Need Phil Brock"s Backward Transportation Policies in Santa Monica
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 11:00:32 AM
EXTERNAL
I write to express my deep disappointment in Council Member Phil Brock (“CM Brock”) for his backward decision
to request an agenda item that will undermine the 17th Street Protected Bike Lane (the “Protected Lane”) on the
City Council’s June 13th Meeting Agenda. In addition to being fiscally irresponsible, undermining the Protected
Lane makes no sense for anyone that is forward-looking, cares about the environment, and/or wants to make
Santa Monica a progressive city that encourages green transportation. There are plenty of other streets that cars
can drive on if some drivers do not like 17th Street's recent improvements. I hope the rest of the Council backs
cyclists over drivers.
Coincidentally, when I heard about CM Brock’s desire to forever lock Santa Monica into being the car-only city he
grew up in during the 1950s, my family and I were sitting at Emmy Squared Pizza after riding the Protected Lane
in the 2020s. When my wife and I received a text update about CM Brock’s plan, we told our kids about the news.
Without hesitation, the kids responded, “No!!!!! Has this person ever even ridden their bike on it? It is so
awesome.” Before that protected lane opened, there was no chance my family would have ridden our bikes
together to Emmy Squared. I am sure there are plenty of people learning about the Protected Lane’s benefits at
the very same time CM Brock is trying to close it off from our community.
I don’t know if CM Brock has ridden the Protected Lane or not, but it will not surprise me if he is offering his
antiquated vision for our city without having done so. I reckon most people who use the Protected Lane recognize
its benefits. Sure, it is not perfect—there is no way to remove the inherent risk of riding a bike on the streets in a
metropolitan area. But, the safety features of the Protected Lane are IMMEDIATELY apparent when riding
northbound beyond Wilshire where the Protected Lane converts into a normal bike lane. If CM Brock (or anyone
else) wants to see the benefits of the Protected Lane, I suggest riding on it from Santa Monica to California during
rush hour a few times to compare the protected lane to a regular bike lane.
I get it. People don’t like change. The Protected Lane also caused some real issues with elderly people and
individuals with health conditions who live on 17th Street. Those issues must be addressed. But we should
address them while protecting our city’s investment in a greener and healthier future. Many cities in the US have
completely closed off car traffic to non-residents! Why is CM Brock’s plan to close off cyclists in favor of
drivers, and waste our city's monetary investment while doing so? Don’t undermine the Protected Bike Lane, CM
Brock! Improve it by making 17th Street even more bikable!
We need a City Council that will usher our city into the future, not drag it back into the past. CM Brock has picked
his side. I hope the rest of the Council works together to stop him.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 734 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:r 8
To:+oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov; Phil Brock
Cc:+Caroline.Torosis@santamonica.gov; +christine.parra@santamonica.gov; +gleam.davis@santamonica.gov;
+jesse.zwick@santamonica.gov; +lana.negrete@santamonica.gov; councilmtgitems
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 7:27:41 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre, I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa
Monica.
I implore you to look past 20th century infrastructure status quo. It is your duty to conserve
Santa Monica from the detrimental impacts of climate change. Improving safe, reliable,
alternative transportation options besides car will help in this duty. Not only that but , this
bikeway is significantly improving commerce and tourism around this area. It is financially
sound to support the bikeway.
To score political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users
is morally wrong.
Signed,
Hared
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 735 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:James Trapp
To:Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock;
councilmtgitems
Subject:Bike Lanes
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 6:32:00 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear City council, I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when
the bike lanes were approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the
constituents as their elected officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes. The bike
lanes have caused danger to drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists are not
necessarily protected as there are blind spots, added distractions, and many cyclists don't
even use the lanes. Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering
themselves and creating situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access
patients in a safe manner. The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused
extra traffic, increased emissions, noise, and frustration. There have been increased falls in
elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near the cars, and their inability to safely
access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap spots have been removed along the
bike lane corridor. Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which puts
pedestrians at risk as they get to a vehicle. For all these reasons and more we ask you to
please bring 17th street back to the way it was. We are not against bike lanes, but prefer
them, the way they were before. Thank you for you representation Sincerely, James Trapp
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 736 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Gladys Gutierrez
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:I use the bike lanes, Blue Bus and Expo line!
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 7:39:15 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members,
I've been a regular rider of the Big Blue Bus since I arrived at UCLA 23 years ago. After I moved to SM, I
cycled or took the Expo line to my job on the Promenade, since we were not offered parking. With this
experience, I am speaking up against the ignorant and selfish complaints that are preventing our city from
expanding its car-less infrastructure.
Let's face it - 99% of the public (regardless of education or income) are not versed in urban planning and
could care less about the greater good. The goal of urban planning is to maximize land use and
benefit the most people with the lowest impact. It is not your job to create a system that everybody
will love. If London had stopped planning its public transport to avoid inconveniencing the people with
carriages (who happened to be the rich), they wouldn't be world leaders with their Underground system
now.
The fact is, Americans are addicted to convenience and that would be OK if car infrastructure didn't
cost so much. I am not just talking about road maintenance - pollution, congestion, accidents and noise
are all impacting us daily.
I am active on Nextdoor.com and I have some rebuttals to the objections for the 17th St bike lanes:
Drivers cannot get into their cars comfortably.
First of all, a car is a massive personal possession and nobody is entitled to that much
space on the road for pennies a year. The likely reason people are parking on the street is
that they have more than one adult with a car in the household and not enough parking
spots. With work from home now more popular than ever and the invention of ride-sharing,
one couple can meet all their needs with a single car.
Suggestions: 1) remove the street parking and re-zone so people can only drive cars they
can park on-site. Apartments that had no parking would need to drop their rate to attract
car-less people. 2) Make 17th St a One-way Street and kill one lane of parked cars 3)
close 17th st to only residents, with access via key-card.
The elderly and disabled can't walk or bike to the doctor. The elderly can't
see the barriers
If people are that incapacitated, then by logic they are not fit to drive a
massive 2 ton death machine either. If they look normal but have a hidden
defect that could cause them to lose control, or cannot see, then these are
all valid objections to why these people cannot drive
Suggestion: Ride-share vouchers. Free City shuttle. Moto-taxi that fits in
the bike lane and can come up right to the curb
Emergency trucks cannot get through
The road is the same width. The green bike lanes that used to be right against the racing
cars did not provide the room for a massive truck to get around gridlock. Drivers have
always had to maneuver to let these trucks pass
Cars will topple if they take the curb too fast
The problem here is driving too fast. The concrete barrier did its job
Slowing down is inefficient
These people are driving too fastI They have never had a loved one get
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 737 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
run over and crippled by a car, but I have. Last year!
Motorized bikes/scooters are going too fast and drivers coming out of
driveways can't see them
Who is really in danger here? The driver is not going to be killed by
someone else's reckless cycling/scootering
Not having a car sets poor people back because they are unable to get to
better places for employment
This is completely out of touch. Car ownership is actually the cause of
many families struggling to make ends meet. With installments, insurance,
gas and maintenance, poor people are burdened by needing a car in Los
Angeles
We don't ask people to cure their own diseases and battle their own legal troubles, we ask doctors and
lawyers. The experts! So why would we take what a group of inconvenienced people say to plan our city's
major thoroughfares? We need to rely on experts to take the lead.
I want to close by saying, public transport and bike lanes are not the cause of gridlock, it's cars. The more
room you give them, the more of them hit the road. However, I do ask that we listen to the concerns
around security and work towards improving it for bike riders. Right now, theft is a major issue. We also
need to improve the Metro - have officers to guard it, have shelter against the elements, and kill the honor
system that allows anybody to board. We have a long road ahead and things are very rough now but I am
optimistic.
Thank you so much for reading and I hope we can continue this growth with expert input.
Cordially,
Gladys Gutierrez
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 738 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:JEFF levy
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:Item 16D- please Remove and stop new "protected" bike lanes
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 5:07:55 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear City council, I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when
the bike lanes were approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the
constituents as their elected officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes.
The bike lanes have caused danger to drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists
are not necessarily protected as there are blind spots, added distractions, and many
cyclists don't even use the lanes.
Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering themselves and creating
situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access patients in a safe manner.
The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused extra traffic, increased
emissions, noise, and frustration.
There have been increased falls in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near
the cars, and their inability to safely access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap
spots have been removed along the bike lane corridor. Both electric scooters and e-bikes
use the bike lane which puts pedestrians at risk as they get to a vehicle.
For all these reasons and more we ask you to please bring 17th street back to the way it
was. We are not against bike lanes, but prefer them, the way they were before.
Thank you for you representation
Sincerely,
Jeff Levy
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 739 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:francie kropken
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:Item 16D- please Remove and stop new "protected" bike lanes
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 5:23:55 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear City council,
I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when the bike lanes were
approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the constituents as their elected
officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes. The bike lanes have caused danger to
drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists are not necessarily protected as there
are blind spots, added distractions, and many cyclists don't even use the lanes.
Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering themselves and creating
situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access patients in a safe manner.
The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused extra traffic, increased
emissions, noise, and frustration.
There have been increased falls in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near
the cars, and their inability to safely access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap
spots have been removed along the bike lane corridor.
Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which puts pedestrians at risk as they
get to a vehicle. For all these reasons and more we ask you to please bring 17th street
back to the way it was. We are not against bike lanes, but prefer them, the way they were
before.
Thank you for you representation
Sincerely,
Francie Kropken
P.S. I have dozens upon dozens of videos and pictures which show the lawlessness and
dangers caused by these poorly planned lanes. The needs of the residents, seniors, and
handicapped have been ignored. I have receipts which show that I have warned all of you
about this, and if these lanes are not removed soon, I will take them to the media.
You have been warned.
A class action lawyer is being consulted, as well an ADA lawyer.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 740 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Steven C Shepherd Architect
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:OPPOSED TO ITEM 16D - BE "DOERS"
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 5:17:14 PM
EXTERNAL
Santa Monica City Council -
I am opposed to Item 16D. I am a frequent visitor to Santa Monica both for business and
pleasure, and I treasure my time there whether it be with business partners or friends. I feel
Santa Monica has taken great steps forward in improving public right-of-way accessibility. I
notice the new improvements and am always encouraged to see them being used by residents,
tourists, and visitors like myself. The thought that you would need any additional study of a
proven idea that is already being successfully implemented on the streets of Santa Monica
seems daft and counterproductive.
Rather than "studying," I'd really like to see more "doing." As a driver, pedestrian, and cyclist
frequenting the streets of Santa Monica, I encourage you to be doers and vote against Item
16D.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Steve Shepherd
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 741 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Sparky
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Re: please remove bike lanes from 17th St.
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 5:05:29 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Council-members,
I have been meaning to write you. Any given week I use to take 17th St. often. Now since the new bike lanes were
put up, I avoid it completely. It is so congested now. Plus, I was almost hit by someone who opened their car door
into my lane. It is completely dangerous. I know it would cost money to remove them, but I really hope you do.
Also, PLEASE do not do this to any other streets. I used to enjoy bike riding until I got my bike stolen here in Santa
Monica. As I’m older now, (mid 50s), I need to use my car for everything and biking is not feasible. The buses and
metro are not safe. I know that’s not your fault, but it’s the truth. Our city is congested enough and now with more
of these high-rise buildings being built, Santa Monica is a stressful place to live in and get around. As you may have
noticed, the bike lanes are not use that often while traffic is backed up for blocks. As much as Santa Monica wants
to be progressive in so many areas THIS should not be one of them.
Thanks for reading!
Warm Regards,
Linda Sypien
Sent from my iPhone
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 742 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:zev tansky
To:Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis;
councilmtgitems
Subject:Re: Subject: Item 16D- please Remove and stop new "protected" bike lanes
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 5:14:32 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear City council,
I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when the bike lanes were
approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the constituents as their elected
officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes. The bike lanes have caused danger to
drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists are not necessarily protected as there
are blind spots, added distractions, and many cyclists don't even use the lanes.
Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering themselves and creating
situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access patients in a safe manner.
The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused extra traffic, increased
emissions, noise, and frustration.
There have been increased falls in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near
the cars, and their inability to safely access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap
spots have been removed along the bike lane corridor.
Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which puts pedestrians at risk as they
get to a vehicle. For all these reasons and more we ask you to please bring 17th street
back to the way it was. We are not against bike lanes, but prefer them, the way they were
before.
Thank you for you representation
Sincerely,
Zev Tansky
On Mon, Jun 12, 2023 at 4:59 PM zev tansky <zevmayer@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear City council, I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when
the bike lanes were approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the
constituents as their elected officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes. The bike
lanes have caused danger to drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists are not
necessarily protected as there are blind spots, added distractions, and many cyclists don't
even use the lanes. Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering
themselves and creating situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access
patients in a safe manner. The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused
extra traffic, increased emissions, noise, and frustration. There have been increased falls
in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near the cars, and their inability to
safely access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap spots have been removed
along the bike lane corridor. Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which
puts pedestrians at risk as they get to a vehicle. For all these reasons and more we ask
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 743 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
you to please bring 17th street back to the way it was. We are not against bike lanes, but
prefer them, the way they were before. Thank you for you representation Sincerely, Zev
Tansky
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 744 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:zev
To:Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis;
councilmtgitems
Subject:Re: Subject: Item 16D- please Remove and stop new "protected" bike lanes
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 5:15:35 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear City council,
I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when the bike lanes were
approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the constituents as their elected
officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes. The bike lanes have caused danger to
drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists are not necessarily protected as there
are blind spots, added distractions, and many cyclists don't even use the lanes.
Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering themselves and creating
situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access patients in a safe manner.
The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused extra traffic, increased
emissions, noise, and frustration.
There have been increased falls in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near
the cars, and their inability to safely access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap
spots have been removed along the bike lane corridor.
Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which puts pedestrians at risk as they
get to a vehicle. For all these reasons and more we ask you to please bring 17th street
back to the way it was. We are not against bike lanes, but prefer them, the way they were
before.
Thank you for you representation
Sincerely,
Zev Levitansky
On Mon, Jun 12, 2023 at 5:00 PM zev <thegodol@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear City council, I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when
the bike lanes were approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the
constituents as their elected officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes. The bike
lanes have caused danger to drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists are not
necessarily protected as there are blind spots, added distractions, and many cyclists don't
even use the lanes. Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering
themselves and creating situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access
patients in a safe manner. The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused
extra traffic, increased emissions, noise, and frustration. There have been increased falls
in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near the cars, and their inability to
safely access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap spots have been removed
along the bike lane corridor. Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which
puts pedestrians at risk as they get to a vehicle. For all these reasons and more we ask
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 745 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
you to please bring 17th street back to the way it was. We are not against bike lanes, but
prefer them, the way they were before. Thank you for you representation Sincerely, Zev
Levitansky
--
ונילאגי אוהו ףוג א ןיא הטמל אד יבר ןטימ ךיז ןהעז הכזנו
--
ונילאגי אוהו ףוג א ןיא הטמל אד יבר ןטימ ךיז ןהעז הכזנו
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 746 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:mirel levitansky
To:Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Phil Brock; Gleam Davis;
Christine Parra
Subject:Stop the protected bike lanes!
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 5:59:17 PM
EXTERNAL
Please revert the bike lanes to how they were before.
The protected bike lanes have caused lots of harm without enough benefits to offset the harm.
The bike lanes worked well before and now it's not good for bikes or drivers. There have been
much more accidents, near accidents and car damage (most are not in the statistics cuz people
didn't go to the hospital)
It has caused much more traffic, confession and emissions.
Yes, many drivers may start using other streets, but those that live and work near 17th don't
have a choice. Besides that as these protected bikes lanes start on other streets, that won't be a
choice anymore either.
Anyone who drives in 17th st comments how awful it is.
We had a get together recently on 17th and all the visitors were so frustrated. With the
visibility, the maneuvering, the lack of parking, the tightness of the lanes...
In summary, the current bike lanes are helping a minority but are harming (beyond just
inconveniencing) a majority. And the orbits bike lanes were working just fine for that
minority.
Thank you,
Mir rodal
Sent from my T-Mobile 5G Device
Get Outlook for Android
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 747 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Santa Monica Forward
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16D - Santa Monica Forward Opposition Letter
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:17:07 PM
Attachments:SM Forward Letter - Item 16D 17th St Bike Lanes.pdf
EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and Councilmembers,
Please find attached a letter from Santa Monica Forward opposing item 16
D.
Thank you,
Brad Ewing and Carl Hansen
Co-Chairs, Santa Monica Forward
--
We are working for a diverse, progressive, sustainable and equitable Santa Monica.
SantaMonicaForward.org
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 748 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
RE:Item 16D –Oppose
Mayor Davis,Mayor Pro Tem Negrete and Councilmembers,
We urge the Council to oppose 16D.
Santa Monica is blessed to have a hardworking staff that delivers high-quality infrastructure and
services,but their resources are not infinite.Saddling our staff with busy work impairs their
ability to implement the city’s Bike Action Plan,which is critical to achieving Vision Zero and
meeting our city’s climate goals.
Let’s strive to build a city where citizens of any age feel safe and empowered to traverse our 8
sq/mi city for school,work or recreation!The limited protected bicycle infrastructure the city
has built has already been a roaring success:the Ocean Ave bike lanes saw 1000%increase in
cycling and 18%drop in vehicular traffic.
If we build it,the cyclists will come.
Sincerely,
Brad Ewing and Carl Hansen
Co-chairs,Santa Monica Forward
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 749 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Mat Swatek
To:Phil Brock; +oscar.delatorre@santamonica.gov
Cc:councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Gleam Davis
Subject:16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 11:09:37 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. To score
political points by jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users is morally
wrong.
Signed,
Mat Swatek
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 750 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Deborah Dinsmore
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:17th Street Bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:29:30 PM
EXTERNAL
Thank you again for your street meeting with neighbors about this. I write to oppose the 17th Street
bikeway and these hardened bikes lanes. I’m an experienced urban cyclist with years of commuting
and running errands both within Santa Monica and beyond. Good traffic management stands on the
legs of safety and flow. The bike paths, as installed, interfere with both and add marginal value to
the cyclist.
They are touted as sustainable. Are they? Or do they increase traffic congestion and air
pollution?
Every car that parks on 17th or Broadway on the parking strip now pushed into the street requires aline of cars behind it to come to a complete stop, idling. Ditto for drivers opening doors. Ditto for
delivery drivers on 17th which block the entire lane. Every one of these is a multiplier of wasted fueland brakes that adds unnecessary wear and tear on the car, expense for the driver, more pollution,and greatly increases the opportunities for accidents.
The issue of car doors opening into the typical bike lane was raised. It’s true. They do. Andoccasionally a bike goes by. The alert cyclist, of course, has their eyeballs open and can slip to theoutside edge of the lane. Drivers actually do look. And so do I.
They are touted as a safety solution. Are they? Bikes moving along the curb can be hard to see when screened behind a row of parked cars untilthey suddenly pop into view. Even moreso when the bike is not really a bike at all, but motorizedand zipping along at speed. This makes all right turns dangerous for driver and cyclist.
I find it curious that I was the only cyclist present at the on-site citizens meeting with CouncilmanBrock wearing a high visibility safety color jacket. I was also the only one who spoke against theexecution of this bike lane as it was done. Not sure what to make of that, but it suggests that somecyclists could take more responsibility for their safety than they do.
The “round about” curbs are a dangerous waste of precious street real estate.These unmarked mini tank traps at corners are “intended” to help cyclists do what they have beendoing forever anyway – turn left without being in a left turn lane. In fact, I find they make it harderto execute that kind of “round about” left turn. Plus they push drivers making right turns farther intooncoming traffic.
I got the impression someone said “well, the code requires x feet of turning radius for our largestvehicle, so we’ll measure it on paper here and make sure we have that and no more.” Based on my
experience at the 17th/Broadway corner I have a hard time swallowing the declaration made at theBrock meeting that a large fire truck executed this turn safely. (Wanna sell me a bridge, too?)
Overall, narrow streets that were once designed for 4 lanes of traffic (like Broadway), then
redesigned to 2 lanes plus a turn lane plus 2 bike lanes, are just too narrow for the kind of bike lane
installation done on 17 th Street and Broadway. What pencilled on paper did not translate to good
road management.
Deborah Dinsmore
Ninth Street, SM
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 751 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 752 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Ellis Raskin
To:Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Christine Parra; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick
Cc:councilmtgitems; David White; Douglas Sloan; David Martin; Rick Valte
Subject:Agenda Item 16-D: 17th St. Bikeway
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 11:48:58 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Hon. Mayor Davis and Hon. Councilmembers:
I am writing to share some brief thoughts and observations regarding the 17th Street Bikeway.
These opinions are purely my own and reflect my personal opinions on this matter.
I live on 17th St., and I have found that the bikeway is a resounding success. I have been
fortunate to avoid serious danger while using the bikeway (in large part because it provides
well-designed protections for non-automobile users), but I have heard from friends and
neighbors that the bikeway has already saved lives.
The streetscape improvements involved a half-decade-long public outreach process (which
began in 2017). Indeed, I participated in lengthy public meetings with city staff in 2018 and
2019 to discuss the proposed 17th St. improvements, and the current design reflects both (1)
public feedback received during this outreach process and (2) well-understood best practices
for intersection and roadway design. I commend staff for their diligent efforts to listen to the
community during the design process.
The intersection of Broadway and 17th St. has been radically improved through this process.
The current design of the Broadway/17th St. intersection is much, much safer for non-
automobile users (especially for pedestrians). Nothing should be changed. The whole
point of the intersection is to force drivers to slow down. There are no conflicts or problems
for automobile users at this intersection as long as they proceed through the intersection at a
low rate of speed.
I urge you to not devote further staff time, money, or resources to this issue. As you know, our
staff is already overworked, and they have many other priorities (including the tree ordinance
update; see Agenda Item 16-C). Let's use our limited resources more productively, and not re-
hash a 6+ year public process.
Best,
Ellis
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 753 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Randolph Ruiz
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 8:51:04 PM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I’ve used the not-yet-finished 17th Street protected bike lanes several times in the last week and I can tell you they
are a huge improvement for the mobility of my family and me. I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of
bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has been proven throughout the world.
According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including
drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally, the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of
a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Randolph Ruiz
2222 10th St 90405
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 754 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Nicole Burgess
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 6:32:58 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has been proven throughout
the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces collisions and injuries for all road users
(including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally, the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica
outside of a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Nicole Burgess
Enjoy the Ride!
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 755 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Willa Rebeccah
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 7:50:22 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city's infrastructure has been proven
throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces collisions and iniuries for
all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%.
Additionally, the city's investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car, reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Willa Ross
16th St 90404
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 756 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jesus J
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 8:50:33 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has been
proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes reduces
collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally, the city’s
investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car, reducing greenhouse
gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying
what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 757 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Josh Graybill
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:I do not support item 16D
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 9:48:36 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica city council,
I ask that you not pass Item 16D. The added value of bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has
been proven throughout the world. According to a recent study, adding protected bike lanes
reduces collisions and injuries for all road users (including drivers) by 30-50%. Additionally,
the city’s investment is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making the city safer to walk and bike in.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not
studying what we already know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
PS: While I am sympathetic to the needs of disabled persons to access care facilities along
17th st, I do not think this means we need to prioritize "vehicular movement" along that street.
Most streets in SM already prioritize vehicle traffic, and slowing down vehicle traffic (via
infrastructure) is the only thing that keeps pedestrians and cyclists safe. The 17th street
bikeway is a crucial north-south protected bike lane (across the 10 fwy, which has notoriously
bisected SM into disparate "opportunity zones"), offering last mile access to transit (Expo),
SMC students, etc. I regularly used the new protected bike lane so that my 6 yr old son and I
could bike to his little league practices at memorial park (one less car clogging the road for the
people who really *need* to drive). SM has made great strides in safe street infrastructure over
the last several years and that was a big reason why my wife and I chose to move here to raise
our young family.
Thank you,
Josh Graybill
Santa Monica, 90404
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 758 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Mike Terranova
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Cc:Robert Zak; Peter James; cta@streetsforall.org
Subject:I don"t support Item 16D : 6/13/2023 Council Meeting
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 10:35:47 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I'm writing to express my concerns regarding Item 16D, proposed by Councilmembers Brock
and de la Torre. Focusing our resources on improving bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure,
instead of catering to vehicular traffic adjustments near bike lanes, promotes sustainable
transportation, reduces greenhouse emissions, and enhances citywide accessibility for
everyone, not solely motorists.
Our city faces other significant issues that demand immediate attention. For instance, we must
directly confront the homelessness crisis and make essential improvements by taking on
COVID deferred projects like the $5.5M investment for implementation of the Lincoln
Corridor Plan. We also must prioritize efforts like continuing maintenance of street lights that
are non-functional on major roads such as Pico Blvd, implementation of "no right on red"
signs at scrambles, and timely sign replacement and signal maintenance which are crucial to
our community's safety for pedestrians. We should direct our city's resources and staff time
towards addressing these challenges.
Reassessing the already completed and addressed "Safe Streets for 17th Street and Michigan
Avenue" project detracts from these pressing issues and hinders our progress towards safer,
more inclusive bike and pedestrian infrastructure.
I support safe streets initiatives like Vision Zero and protected bike lanes and strongly urge
you to reject Item 16D, or at least refocus it on tangible problems rather than perceived ones.
Do not indulge the viewpoints of a group of residents who are apparently unable to
acknowledge the substantial benefits and necessary change that protected bike lanes provide to
our city. The City Manager and staff should be given direction to prioritize their valuable time
towards establishing more bike lanes and advancing road safety projects.
Regards,
Mike Terranova
Sunset Park Resident
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 759 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:francie kropken
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:Item 16D- please Remove and stop new "protected" bike lane
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 10:46:00 PM
EXTERNAL
This letter has already been sent to each of you in December time, yet not one of you
responded! These problems - which you are just beginning to address were brought to your
attention MONTHS ago! Feigning ignorance is not an option!
Save our city! Stop the 17th st. project! - part 1 I have sent this letter to every city council
member, city planner, and the local news. No one even cared to respond! The city council
treats its residents like we are their pawn and personal piggy bank for taxes, while throwing
us under the bus time and again. This is a bit long, but I would love it if anyone can refute
the claims made in this post. In the coming days, I intend to post pictures I have collected
over time to prove these points. The latest city project to help promote biking, and help us
reach our climate goals, has proven itself to be another sham, gaslight effort, to take federal
dollars and ruin our city even more than they have already: Road diet The planners have
been very clear what the point of this project is; a road diet. This means that they want to
make driving a miserable experience, and thus “encourage” - read “force” - people to stop
using their cars and use public transport or other forms of “green” energy like bikes or
electric scooters. Kind of reminds me of this story - often told here in Los Angeles: I just
donated the contents of my wallet, my iPhone X, and my $10,000 Rolex watch to some
poor guy living on the streets. You wouldn't believe the happiness I felt as he put his gun
back into his pocket. We are being forced to “go green”. Sounds like it's a great project? In
truth it is a great project; on paper. In reality there are so many problems which are being
ignored that I feel the need to address at least some of them, so that the city can not say
“we didn’t know”. Elites Vs. peasants. Initially, this project was supposed to run from
Montana and 17th, to Pico. Suddenly it started at Wilshire. What happened? Apparently the
city was threatened with a lawsuit from those with deeper pockets, if they dared to ruin their
streets and take away loads of their parking. So for the peasants in the city center and
south, we need to suffer and deal with the virtue signaling efforts of the city. Less parking
The city estimated that they will be removing approximately 100 parking spaces. Many
people living on the 17th st corridor do not have garages, and rely heavily on street parking.
By taking away parking, it causes people to drive around the block another three times, and
burn more gas, thus contributing to the pollution. It also causes more traffic to occur at the
intersections, and thus raises the possibilities of accidents. When a spot is found, the
person getting into the spot MUST block traffic in order to “back up” into the spot. More
traffic, more idling, more pollution. Are we not cutting off our nose to spite our face? Parking
set up As the system is set up, the bike lane will be next to the curb, while the parking will
be next to traffic. This means that every time someone in a parked car opens their door,
they will be at major risk of getting their door taken off, or even get hit themselves when
they get out. In addition, if they need to take a child out of the passenger seat, they are at
risk of hitting/getting hit by a bike, the very reason for which these “protected” bike lanes
were created. It also leads us to another issue No proper visibility. When a car is trying to
make a right, and the visibility of the driver is blocked by the cars on their right side, they
are more prone to crash into a biker. This is especially true of the electric bikes and
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 760 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
scooters which drive at much faster speeds, and even a most careful driver can be at risk of
hitting them. This has been seen along the “new” bike lanes on Broadway. As a driver and
a biker, I have nearly been hit by cars, or nearly hit a biker, despite my best efforts. I have
heard the same from many other residents both drivers and bikers in the area. Another
issue is the flawed planning of these designs. Many cars do not even realize where they
are supposed to park. Thus many park IN the BIKE LANE. I personally have dozens of
such pictures from my daily bike rides. One of the main reasons for this, because the
meters and signs are found on the curb. For those drivers who are a bit smarter, and
realize where they are supposed to park, they often do not see the signs or meters, and
end up getting cited. What a great deal for the city! Emergency response times; fail! These
are purposefully created to cause traffic by design, and make driving miserable. The
problem with traffic is that it impedes response time for emergency vehicles. When there is
an open bike lane on a two lane street, and an emergency vehicle needs to get through,
everyone can move their cars into the bike lane, and create a new lane in the middle for the
emergency vehicle. If there is traffic however - as these roads are designed to create - and
an emergency vehicle needs to get through, where will the cars move? The bike lanes are
“protected”. When lives are on the line, every moment counts! Yet in the name of “going
green” we are knowingly risking lives! Will the city want to be sued for ignoring this glaring
fact? There are FOUR senior homes on this stretch, which see ambulances come many
times a day. Are their lives not worth something?! Since the train came to town, 17th st has
been a traffic nightmare as it was, when the train causes traffic to back up for blocks. These
lanes will only exacerbate the situation and cause more delays for those who need the help
most. A recent fire inspector at a local business confirmed that their response times are
ALREADY slower due to the Broadway part of the project. How much worse with this make
it? Discrimination Possibly the dirtiest word in these woke times. Yet, the city is knowingly
discriminating against the most vulnerable of society; the handicapped and seniors. Despite
seeking and "claiming" to be “inclusive”, they target the most vulnerable with impunity.
Firstly, the handicapped do not have a choice of using “green” transportation such as bikes
or scooters. The public transport is not reliable, and they thus need to use cars. By created
traffic and havoc, this is direct discrimination against those who are dependent on cars.
Additionally, Multiple handicapped parking spaces have been removed, with no plan to
replace them. One neighbor has a child with MS who is confined to a wheelchair. Their spot
was taken away. Yet another has a child who is blind and lame; also in a wheelchair. Their
spot was taken away as well, with no plan to replace it. Yet another has multiple children
with various levels of autism whose blue spot was taken away as well. Lastly, the way the
parking is set up, they would need to cross over the bike path, potentially go over a curb,
and potentially even go into the path of oncoming traffic in order to put their children into the
car! How safe is that? How inclusive! And finally the biggest lie of all: Everyone wants it. I
have spoken to every neighbor I know. Not one wants it. Not one wants to lose their parking
spot - hard to get as it is. Not one wants the dangers mentioned in this article. I dare the city
to give us a deadline and a number of signatures - based on households - and we will show
them how much people hate their project! Better yet, let them release the number of people
who called them about the project, and how many of them called to complain vs. how many
called in support! Let the city release the concerns which were raised, and how they are
being addressed! Ain’t going to happen. It would show how much dislike there is for this
project! As a matter of fact, there has been very little signage about the different
construction which is being done. One resident asked the workers why this was, and they
responded “the city told us that many people are upset about this, so just try to do it without
riling them up any more than they are already”.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 761 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Eugene Lee
To:Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock;
councilmtgitems; Soyoung Jung
Subject:Item 16D- please Remove and stop new bike lanes
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 9:04:10 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear City council,
I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when the bike lanes were
approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the constituents as their elected
officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes.
The bike lanes have caused danger to drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists
are not necessarily protected as there are blind spots, added distractions, and many
cyclists don't even use the lanes.
Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering themselves and creating
situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access patients in a safe manner.
The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused extra traffic, increased
emissions, noise, and frustration.
There have been increased falls in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near
the cars, and their inability to safely access the curb.
Not to mention that many handicap spots have been removed along the bike lane corridor.
Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which puts pedestrians at risk as they
get to a vehicle.
For all these reasons and more we ask you to please bring 17th street back to the way it
was.
We are not against bike lanes, but prefer them, the way they were before.
Thank you for you representation
Sincerely,
Eugene D Lee
925 14th St, Unit 22
Santa Monica, CA 90403
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 762 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:kent Strumpell
To:David White; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Christine
Parra; councilmtgitems
Cc:Jason Kligier
Subject:Item 16D, 17th St. bikeway
Date:Monday, June 12, 2023 11:33:27 PM
EXTERNAL
Re: Item 16D,17th St. bikeway improvements
Dear Council Members and City Leaders,
I want to express my strong support for the bikeway improvements on 17th St. that have
made cycling there much safer and more comfortable for me.
I understand that some motorists say the improvements are inconvenient and confusing.
I believe this is to be expected with new roadway features, such as we saw with the
initial installations of traffic circles on 26th St. and elsewhere. It took locals a while to
figure them out and accept them. But now they are just part of the landscape and are
playing a valuable role reducing speeds and adding beauty to our neighborhoods.
Likewise, I fully expect the protected bikeway network that our city has planned, of
which 17th St. is one part of, will also be accepted by road users in Santa Monica. Of
course the small islands that are part of the protected-intersection design causes drivers
to slow down and be more cautious; that is their intent. As with traffic circles, I believe
the protected bikeway network will become an accepted and valuable part of our
mobility system.
Finally, I want to say that the real value of the 17th St. improvements will not come
overnight but will accrue when we finally have a complete network of safe, protected
bikeways throughout our city. Usage levels of new bikeway installations may be low at
first, which is to be expected — the same would be true if our road network for cars was
fragmented and dangerous with only a few safe routes. But when our bikeway network
becomes a pervasive infrastructure that can be relied on to get around safely, I predict
that we will see the same explosion in cycling that has resulted in cities around the world
with well-developed bicycle infrastructure.
The many safety, equity and climate benefits of a complete bikeway system will enrich
us for generations, long after the difficulties of the transition are forgotten.
Thank you for all you do!
Kent Strumpell
1211 Michigan Ave.
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 763 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
Pico Neighborhood
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 764 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Brodsky, Michael
To:David White; Gleam Davis; Lana Negrete; Phil Brock; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Oscar de la Torre; Christine
Parra; councilmtgitems
Subject:Item 16D, Support for 17th Street safety improvements
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 11:36:50 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members,
I am a resident of 17th Street.
I fully support the recent improvements to make 17th Street safer.
Every day, I drive my car, ride my bike, or walk on 17th street. I applaud the city
of Santa Monica for the recent improvements that are well designed and are an
important safety upgrade for all.
Safe streets and intersections need to be our most important priority as we need
to make pedestrians and bicyclists more visible to motorists. The new
intersection treatments on 17th do an excellent job to make our intersections
safer.
We need to reduce tragic traffic related injuries and deaths on our Santa Monica
streets and most particularly at our intersections.
My grandfather, Charles Brodsky was killed in an intersection at Wilshire
and 10th crosswalk by motorist who “didn’t see him.”
We need to make our intersections more visible and SAFER, not faster.
No excuses.
Sincerely,
Michael Brodsky
Santa Monica
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 765 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:David F
To:Phil Brock
Cc:councilmtgitems
Subject:item 16D: Support for 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 3:24:19 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers Brock and de la Torre,
I've been watching with interest the improvements on 17th St for quite awhile now. At first I
was puzzled, but as work progressed I came to understand what was being done. By now, I
have used portions of the bikeway many times and can say, based on personal experience, that
I support the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and urge you to do the same. I ask you to
support this and other similar improvements to our infrastructure for the better future it
portends for our community. However, seeking to score political points, by opposing or
weakening these improvements, from persons whose only vision is backwards, is pathetic and
morally wrong. Our roads must afford safe passage for all who use them regardless of travel
mode.
Signed,
David Feuer
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 766 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Jesus
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:Item 16D: Support for the 17th Street Bikeway
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 10:42:24 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong support for the 17th Street Bikeway in Santa Monica and
urge you to stand behind it. Jeopardizing the safety of our community's vulnerable road users
for political gain is morally wrong.
The 17th St protected bike lane has had a positive impact on our community since its
introduction. It provides a safer route for cyclists, encourages more people to choose biking as
a viable mode of transportation, and contributes to reducing traffic congestion and air
pollution. It not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also fosters a sense of community and
connectivity among residents.
By supporting the 17th St protected bike lane, we send a clear message that our city is
committed to sustainable and inclusive transportation solutions. It also demonstrates our
dedication to improving road safety for all users, including cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists.
Removing or undermining the bike lane would be a step backward in our efforts to create a
vibrant, livable city.
Thank you for considering the well-being of our residents and prioritizing their safety.
Sincerely,
Jesus
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 767 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Sergio Rodriguez
To:Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre;
councilmtgitems
Subject:No to Item 16D
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 10:10:54 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I strongly urge to not pass Item 16D. The added value of protected bike lanes to a city’s infrastructure has not
only been proven throughout the world, but is critical to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, car traffic, car-
causing collisions and injuries. Protected bike lanes have been shown to reduces collisions and injuries for all road
users (including drivers) by 30-50%. There already are too many cars in the road - this is how we have our
infamous ridiculous traffic and smog. As known, accommodating more cars will only and always generate more
traffic - there has never been an exception where more lanes has ultimately reduced traffic. The city’s investment
is making it possible to get around Santa Monica outside of a car, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making
the city safer to walk and bike in; but more importantly, we need MORE protections for people moving around our
city OUTSIDE of cars.
Staff time should be spent implementing more bike lanes and road safety projects, not studying what we already
know to be true. Please vote against 16D.
Thank you,
Sergio Rodriguez
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 768 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:Katie Wassenaar
To:Oscar de la Torre; Caroline Torosis; Jesse Zwick; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock;
councilmtgitems
Subject:Subject: Item 16D - Please Remove and stop new bike lanes!
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 10:02:34 AM
EXTERNAL
Dear City council,
I understand that almost none of you were part of the city council when the bike lanes were
approved, and so it is my hope that you will now listen to the constituents as their elected
officials and remove and stop the new bike lanes.
The bike lanes have caused danger to drivers, elderly, disabled, and EMT's. Even cyclists
are not necessarily protected as there are blind spots, added distractions, and many
cyclists don't even use the lanes. I have personal experience with an almost accident with a
cyclist completely unseen because of parked cars blocking traffic's vision of her. I related
the entire experience to Phil Brock last week.
Drivers are now opening their doors into traffic endangering themselves and creating
situations for property damage to occur. EMT'S cannot access patients in a safe manner.
The removal of the right and left hand turn lanes has caused extra traffic, increased
emissions, noise, and frustration.
There have been increased falls in elderly and disabled people, due to the concrete near
the cars, and their inability to safely access the curb. Not to mention that many handicap
spots have been removed along the bike lane corridor.
Both electric scooters and e-bikes use the bike lane which puts pedestrians at risk as they
get to a vehicle.
For all these reasons and more we ask you to please bring 17th street back to the way it
was. We are not against bike lanes, but prefer them, the way they were before.
Thank you for you representation!
Best,
Katie Wassenaar | Post Producer
Lifetime Santa Monica Resident
310-650-7440
editwench@yahoo.com
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 769 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)
From:T GROSSMAN
To:Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; councilmtgitems; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis;
Gleam Davis
Subject:Item 16D: 17th Street Bikeway design problem
Date:Tuesday, June 13, 2023 11:55:22 AM
EXTERNAL
Hello,
I am writing to ask you reconsider the design of the 17th Street bike lane. I am a bicycle rider,
a driver and a walker. We need a better design.
The street layout has confused drivers. It has impaired handicapped parking. It has already
contributed to some accidents. At certain times, the street is problematic for emergency
vehicles who start from Pico - they cannot proceed north quickly enough in high traffic
conditions to get patients to the hospitals for timely care.
There are other alternatives that would be wiser for all modes of transportation. Please find a
better design, even if you must design one way streets or separate bike streets from driving
streets.
Thank you,
Tina Grossman
90405
16.D.a
Packet Pg. 770 Attachment: Written Comments (5817 : 17th Street Bike Path)