Mill Valley Council prioritizes new bike lane over Highway 101 for student access

The June 4, 2025, Town Council Special Meeting in Tiburon, California, focused on a public forum hosted by Caltrans, addressing critical transportation issues in the area. The meeting provided a platform for community members and officials to discuss various aspects of local infrastructure, particularly concerning cycling and pedestrian safety.

The session began with a resident advocating for improved cycling conditions on Greenwood Beach Road. The speaker highlighted a previous study that recommended enhancements to facilitate safer bike travel, suggesting that a dedicated bike lane could be developed to separate cyclists from vehicular traffic. The resident expressed concerns about the rushed nature of the current planning process and called for further study and discussion on this specific section of road.

Urban Carmel, a member of the Mill Valley City Council, followed with remarks emphasizing the importance of extending a Class 4 bike lane from Sausalito to East Strawberry Drive. He described this project as vital for the community, particularly for students traveling to local schools and sports activities. Carmel urged the council to prioritize this initiative, noting that it represents a significant opportunity for enhancing connectivity and safety for residents.

Carmel also shared insights from his decade-long experience in city government, stressing the challenges of securing funding for such projects. He encouraged the council to proceed with at least the initial phase of the bike lane project to capitalize on available funding.

The meeting continued with additional speakers, including Tendore Jones, who shared personal reflections on growing up in the area and raising a family there. The discussions underscored a community commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and ensuring safer travel for cyclists and pedestrians.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue and planning to address transportation challenges in Tiburon and surrounding areas, with a focus on enhancing safety and accessibility for all residents. Further steps and follow-up actions are anticipated as the council continues to engage with community members and stakeholders on these critical issues.