To the Menlo Park City Council and city staff
While I am disappointed that the price tag for the Middle Ave tunnel keeps
growing and the city was unable to find a way to lower the cost with
Caltrain, I ultimately still think this project should move forward. While
I applaud the improved the bike situation on Ravenswood, its still a major
thoroughfare for drivers getting to/from 101 school-age kids bike in that
bike lane just doesnt seem safe in the long run.
We have already put pieces in place on both sides with the purchase of the
parking lot behind Middle Plaza and the approval of Parklines master plan
which has a bike path going directly to MA from the other side of the
bridge.
This project is a vital connecting piece that will make Menlo Park way more
bikeable and safe, especially for high school kids going to and from MA
from west of El Camino.
I urge council to direct staff to keep moving this project forward while
putting more pressure on Caltrain to find a way to lower the costs. Also,
Palo Alto is also considering some new tunnels under the train so perhaps
the required stoppages can be coordinated with them.
Thank you
Misha Silin
D4 resident.
