Transit Alternatives

By Mike Kasperzak

We must develop improved transportation options

Regardless of whether there is any further development in Mountain View, transportation will continue to be a major problem in our community and the region. Most of the major transportation issues are regional in nature, and Mountain View can and should have a voice in creating innovative solutions. But even at the local level there are creative ways to address issues specific to our City. We should pursue participation in the "Car Share" program, examine new technologies to enable commuter bike rental programs and continue work on developing a community shuttle system.

Reducing Neighborhood Traffic

As our region develops, neighborhood traffic continues to grow. While solutions like a neighborhood shuttle are possible, they will take time to develop. However, more immediate solutions can be created through the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program, utilizing new technolgy such as radar equiped school signs and "parking availability" signs which let drivers know where there are spaces.

Securing a "Baby Bullet" Stop in Mountain View

CalTrain is in the process of developing express train service, the so called Baby Bullet, between San Jose and San Francisco. While the trains will be the same ones currently being used, travel time will be significantly reduced because the trains will only make two or three intermediate stops. Mountain View is an ideal location for one of the scheduled stops because it has become a true transit hub. Nowhere else in the County do three inter-related modes of transportation (CalTrain service, VTA buses and Light Rail) come together along the CalTrain line. The City must continue its efforts to secure a Baby Bullet stop in Mountain View, not only because of the benefits the community will receive, but because of the positive impact it will have on regional transportation.

Ensuring development of a new "mixed use" parking structure downtown

In order to address the growing need for parking in the downtown area, the Council has initially approved building a new parking structure at California and Bryant. The structure will also have retail space which the City can lease to to a business such as a grocer. The new structure will not only add parking, but will help reduce neighborhood traffic since drivers won't need to drive around looking for a parking space. While the project is moving forward, there are many issues which could delay it. I will work to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget and that the retail space is leased to a retail business which best meets the needs of the community.