Albany Greenway users propose solutions for safer biking and walking paths

The Albany Transportation Commission meeting on February 27, 2025, sparked a lively discussion on improving safety and usability along the Ohlone Greenway, with a focus on managing speed among various users. Key suggestions included implementing rumble strips and speed feedback signs to help regulate speeds, particularly for cyclists and e-bike riders.

One commissioner highlighted the cultural tendency to exceed speed limits, suggesting that clearer signage indicating acceptable speed ranges could encourage compliance. “If we really want to keep people below 15, we have to be more explicit about that,” they stated, emphasizing the need for signs that indicate a speed range rather than a strict limit.

Public comments echoed these sentiments, with community members advocating for separated lanes based on speed rather than mode of transport. Carrie Shulman proposed that designated lanes could help manage the flow of faster commuters and slower pedestrians, enhancing safety for all users. She noted that while separated lanes exist, they are often underutilized due to their design and maintenance issues.

Another participant, Amy Schulman, called for immediate improvements, such as re-stenciling faded lane markings and maintaining pedestrian paths, which have become overgrown and less usable. “We need to get to literally the root of the problem,” she urged, pointing out that clear markings and regular maintenance are essential for safety.

The discussion also touched on the perception of speed among users, with some commissioners noting that the real issue may not be the actual speed but the relative speed differences between cyclists and pedestrians. They suggested that enhancing user comfort through infrastructure improvements could naturally encourage safer behavior.

As the meeting concluded, the consensus was clear: a combination of better signage, lane separation, and community engagement is crucial for fostering a safer and more enjoyable environment on the Greenway. The commission plans to explore these recommendations further, aiming to create a more inclusive space for all forms of active transportation in Albany.