Alameda commission endorses quick‑build diverter pilot at Lincoln and Walnut, asks for six‑month data report

The Alameda Transportation Commission on Jan. 28 voted unanimously to endorse a quick‑build pilot that would install a raised diverter island at the Lincoln and Walnut intersection and asked staff to return traffic‑diversion and accident data six months after installation.

City Engineer Scott Wikstrom presented 15 years of collision data showing Lincoln & Walnut as a high‑collision location and described broadside collisions as the most common crash type there. "We are looking at measures to prohibit through and left turn movements," Wikstrom said, showing a proposed island that would allow right turns but not through movements, and explaining that the city would bring the action to the city council because restricting through movements is a legislative decision.

Why it matters: Staff and multiple residents noted a pattern of property damage and serious crashes at the intersection, including a pedestrian fatality in 2021. Supporters living near the intersection told the commission they have experienced vehicles striking curbs and fences and urged a pilot to reduce exposure to broadsides. Resident Bill Nylund said his household and neighbors had endured repeated collisions; "We wholeheartedly support the proposed changes to the intersection," he told the commission.

Design, constraints and tradeoffs: The quick‑build proposal would use a low raised curb (about 6 inches) surfaced with bollards and reflective elements. Staff said retaining the left‑turn pocket while installing a diverter complicates adding a pedestrian refuge because by code a refuge island tied to the crosswalk would have to be at least 6 feet wide and would require substantial restriping. Commissioners discussed additional measures — including centerline hardening, signage and lighting improvements — to discourage drivers from circumventing the diverter.

Pilot and data: Staff proposed a pilot that could remain in place through the larger Lincoln–Marshall–Pacific corridor project and recommended collecting traffic counts to measure diversion within about three months; staff advised that collision‑rate trends generally require a longer window to assess. After discussion the commission directed staff to return with traffic‑diversion and accident data six months after the pilot is installed.

Next steps and council referral: Staff will implement the quick‑build pilot and bring the item to the city council as required for restriction of through movements. The commission’s endorsement included the requirement that staff report back on performance data in six months so the body can decide on modifications or permanence.