The Town Council of Atherton held a regular meeting on April 16, 2025, where community safety and traffic improvements were at the forefront of discussions. Residents expressed their concerns regarding the safety of El Camino Real, a major thoroughfare that runs through the area, highlighting the need for enhanced measures to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

The meeting began with public comments from local residents who shared personal experiences related to traffic safety. One resident, who frequently travels through Atherton, emphasized the dangers of biking along El Camino, noting that while it is a direct route, it poses significant risks. This resident advocated for changes that would lower vehicle speeds and improve safety for all road users, particularly children.

Another poignant testimony came from a neighbor who recounted tragic incidents involving fatalities on El Camino, including the deaths of two community members who were struck by vehicles while attempting to cross the road. This resident urged the council to prioritize safety improvements, particularly advocating for a specific option that would enhance protections for pedestrians.

David Pollock, a Menlo Park resident and active participant in safe routes to school initiatives, shared his own harrowing experience of being hit by a car while biking on El Camino. He stressed the importance of prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist safety over the convenience of drivers, urging the council to take decisive action to prevent future accidents.

The meeting concluded with a call for the council to consider the testimonies and prioritize safety measures on El Camino Real. The discussions underscored a collective desire for improvements that would not only enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists but also contribute to a more community-friendly environment. The council is expected to review the proposed options for traffic improvements in future meetings, with a focus on implementing changes that address the urgent safety concerns raised by residents.