We are concerned that the failure to rebuild the pedestrian and bicycle bridge over highway 101 at Ringwood Avenue after its removal by Caltrans would negatively impact the entire Menlo Park community in at least three ways.
1. It would add hardship to the morning commute of underprivileged students in the process of bettering their lives through education. Already, these students are traveling miles by foot or bike in the morning to help attain the American dream. Adding to this commute or making it more dangerous by forcing them to use the busy Willow or Marsh crossings could dissuade them from attending Menlo Atherton Highschool. This could constitute re-segregation and is unfair.
2. It would decrease the attractiveness of commuting by bike or foot for residents on both sides of the bridge. This is not compatible with the bicycle-friendly community Menlo Park strives to foster.
3. Delays could cost us the Caltrans funding for the project. This project is already scheduled, and would be an important economic stimulus to the local community.