During the recent City of Encinitas Mobility & Traffic Safety Commission meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding pedestrian and cyclist safety, particularly in light of alarming collision statistics. The commission discussed the potential for 12 fatalities this year if current trends continue, highlighting that walking or biking in Encinitas is six times more dangerous than in the average California city.

Commissioners explored the possibility of securing emergency funding to address these safety issues. They noted that while extending project scopes could yield some additional funding, it could also inflate project costs, complicating the funding process. The discussion emphasized the importance of focusing on high-collision areas to maximize the effectiveness of safety measures.

One commissioner, who frequently bikes in the Canterbury area, expressed skepticism about the need for additional bike lane space, citing a lack of data on bike crashes in the region. He suggested that instead of implementing costly infrastructure changes, the city should promote alternative bike routes that avoid heavily trafficked areas. This approach, he argued, would be more cost-effective and beneficial for both cyclists and motorists.

The conversation also touched on the necessity of protective measures for cyclists, such as bollards, to qualify for state funding. However, there was a cautionary note about the long-term financial implications of accepting state funds, as any future infrastructure removal would fall on the city’s general fund.

As the commission continues to navigate these complex issues, the focus remains on enhancing safety for all road users while balancing budgetary constraints and community needs. The discussions from this meeting will likely influence future decisions aimed at improving mobility and traffic safety in Encinitas.