Many of those responding to this week’s online poll said they were not happy with the downtown “road diet,” which reduced the number of lanes on Petaluma Boulevard between Washington and D streets in an effort to create wider lanes, safer routes for bicyclists and additional parking, among other things.
Here were some of the comments.
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“I don’t like it but I avoid it by driving alternate routes. I’m tired of being inconvenienced by traffic and crowded sidewalks, so I don’t shop downtown anymore.”
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“It’s safer, friendlier, and with the tweaks now potentially faster. If you’re using downtown for anything other than a drive-through, it’s a significant improvement. Now downtown really feels like a downtown.”
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“This is the worst thing the city has done by far. The traffic is horrible and is not going to help the downtown area!”
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“While any change takes getting used to, this is a decidedly welcome one. Does it mean traffic goes a little slower during peak hours, sure, but it’s a small price to pay for greater safety.”
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“It does not work. Stop trying to improve upon it. I remember council members questioning this, but management assured them it will work. Who gets held responsible?”
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“Whoever thought this was a good idea has absolutely no common sense. I used to go downtown all the time and shop at Copperfields, Blush, E Equals (ethical clothing), Bovine Bakery, Athletic Soles, and the Seed Bank. Now it is such a hassle, I don’t even bother.”
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“There should be no parking; wider sidewalks would allow for more pedestrian traffic, dining and displays on the sidewalks, and increased business for merchants.”
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“I avoid downtown roads and, as a result, businesses because the non-moving traffic is so frustrating.”
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“I don’t bother going downtown any longer, after living here 40 years. The only way to get around this town any longer is to walk!”
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“The traffic calming changes have made it safer for bicyclists and drivers along The Boulevard.”
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“It has caused traffic to come to a stop and the paving job is already failing.”

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