Title
Recommendation to Endorse Implementation of Temporary Street Reconfigurations to Provide Space for Social Distancing in Response to the COVID-19 Emergency. (Transportation 4226287)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The coronavirus pandemic has rapidly and dramatically changed the transportation and economic environment in the City of Alameda (City) and the needs of Alameda residents and businesses. In response to the COVID-19 emergency, staff has initiated a multi-phased plan to provide additional space on city streets to allow for social distancing. The program includes the "Slow Streets Alameda" program in residential areas and a yet to be implemented program for Park Street and Webster Street commercial areas to provide for curbside retail and other measures to manage through COVID-19. The two programs are described in this report as the "Slow Streets" program and the "Commercial Streets" program.
COVID Slow Streets Program. On April 29, the City launched the Slow Streets Alameda program in response to the COVID-19 emergency to provide more space for residents to walk, run, bike, scooter and roll, while meeting the current physical distancing requirements of at least six feet. Pacific Avenue between Grand and Oak and Versailles Avenue between Fernside and Central were temporarily re-configured with temporary barriers and signs to discourage through traffic, while still allowing emergency vehicles and those needing to access a destination on the street, like residents and delivery drivers. Based on direction from Council, staff is prepared to expand the program as necessary to accommodate the desire for more space for walking and biking. The potential expansions and improvements are described below in this report. Staff is recommending that the Slow Street program be terminated and that longer term transportation planning continue to occur through a formal Transportation amendment process with the ter...
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