The safety improvements being installed on Central Avenue [1] have been over a decade in the making. Questions, complaints, and comments from Alamedans continue to flow, even when traffic doesn’t.
“We know the construction process can be frustrating, and we hear your concerns,” the City of Alameda stated in a “quick guide to some recent questions [2],” posted on Facebook.
[3]Questions and answers:
Q. Why the gaps in construction?
A. “Coordination between multiple subcontractors takes time. While electrical delays slowed us down, we are in the home stretch!”
Q: Why is there a very large red curb painted between Eighth and Ninth streets?
A. “This area is the new location for an ADA-compliant bus stop. Signage is coming soon.”
[4]Topics of Alamedans’ comments/complaints and the City’s responses:
- Signal changes at Eighth Street. The City explains, “Expect a new green turn arrow. Note: Pedestrians will need to press the button to activate the walk signal.”
- Parking and lane clarity. The City explains, “We are adding red curbs on Central near Webster to prevent parking in travel lanes. Reminder: Parking is available on Central between Eighth and Page.”
- Fifth Street stop sign. The City says, “We hear you. This area is scheduled to be striped for better visibility before the end of the year.”
- Roundabouts. The City says, “Light foundations are in! We’re waiting on fixtures and yield signs. Once structural work is done, we plan to add landscaping to the centers.”
- Crab Cove/McKay. The City explains, “This area is maintained by the East Bay Regional Park District, not part of the Central Ave project.”
Finally, the City asks for patience as the safety upgrades are completed.