BPAC endorses signage at narrow Galisteo Road intersection to warn motorists and direct cyclists

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advocacy Committee voted on Feb. 12 to endorse increased signage at the newly realigned Zia and Galisteo intersection to warn motorists about cyclists and point riders toward a safer rail-trail connection.

The motion followed a site visit and a report by member Judith Gabriel, who said the street is “extremely narrow” and that a central median and tight geometry are producing tire marks that suggest drivers have difficulty negotiating turns. “One of the observations we made is there are tire marks everywhere on the median,” Gabriel said, describing why the committee considered alternatives ranging from signage to mountable curbs.

BPAC members debated options at length. Member Gary Schiffmiller argued narrowing roads was intended to slow vehicles, while Chair Pat Fagali said the committee’s purpose is to improve cyclist and pedestrian safety rather than ease vehicle movements. Member Tony Garlich proposed a motion to recommend more signage that would “communicate to motorists and cyclists, caution, and opportunities in that intersection of Zia and Galisteo.” Judith Gabriel seconded the motion.

The committee conducted a roll-call vote and the motion passed; all members present voted yes. The recommendation asks city staff to develop roadway signage that both warns drivers of bicycle presence at the intersection and directs cyclists to the nearby rail-trail/train-station connection as an option for safer travel.

The vote produced a formal BPAC recommendation rather than an instruction to change curb geometry; members emphasized signage and sharrows as a first, low-cost step while staff and land-use engineers evaluate longer-term design options. BPAC also suggested that any signage plans be submitted to the technical review subcommittee for review before installation.

The committee will forward its recommendation to city staff for consideration and implementation steps.