Stockton CA Wants Better Transit, Biking, and Sidewalks, Not Wider Roads
What happens when you ask people point blank what they want from their local transportation system?
In California's San Joaquin Valley, the city of Stockton recently asked people at a public meeting what types of transportation investments they'd prefer. Stockton, population 300,000, was especially hard hit when the housing bubble burst, declaring bankruptcy in 2012. With the city regathering itself and embarking on a new general plan, David Garcia reports at Network blog Stockton City Limits that residents left no doubt about the types of transportation options they want:
The findings of this exercise are crystal clear: Stocktonians want more walking, biking and public transportation options.
As you can see, the overwhelming majority of votes cast were in favor of active transportation. 19% of votes were cast in favor of “Pedestrian Sidewalks & Walkability,” 14% for “Mass Transit,” and a combined 25% for cycling for commuting and recreation. Road widening—the only true auto-oriented option—doesn’t register until near the bottom with 6%. While this is by no means a scientific survey, it’s very telling. About 60 residents participated in the exercise according to the city, ranging from the usual advocates as well as private citizens who simply wanted their voices heard.
It is clear that Stocktonians are ready for a more progressive approach to planning, an approach that emphasizes pedestrians and cyclists over the private automobile. It’s up to the citizens to continue to demand these changes and to stay actively involved in this General Plan process.
Elsewhere on the Network today: ATL Urbanist shares the words of an Atlanta developer trying to convince the region to embrace transit. And The Political Environment reports that Wisconsin is building a $1.7 billion interchange project exclusively for the region's suburban commuters, but those commuters are unhappy with the construction delays.
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog New York City
Cops Search for Hit-and-Run Driver Who Killed 3-Year-Old in Queens
The merciless motorist killed 3-year-old Quintas Chen in downtown Flushing, Queens on Wednesday night.
Unlike Mayor Adams, Gov. Hochul’s Support for Congestion Pricing Toll is Full-Throated
The governor said what needed to be said.
Congestion Pricing Mayhem: Mayor Adams Already Raising Concerns About Toll He Says He Supports
Mayor Adams said the pricing scheme should merely be the "beginning of the conversation" with "communities to deliberate and to make a determination of who is going to be exempted."
Thursday’s Headlines: Congestion Pricing Will Be $15 Edition
The proposed congestion pricing toll is $15 for cars entering Manhattan below 60th Street, the TMRB said on Wednesday. Plus more news.
MTA Bus Lane Cameras Will Zap Motorists Who Double Park and Block Bus Stops
If you love blocking buses and bus stops, it's time to get a new hobby.
