Transportation Improvements (Click here for details)

By Michael Francisco "Mike" Sarabia

We need better access to businesses and job sites.

Some changes are minimal. For example, Tri-Delta Transit could be asked to consider a quick stop for the new 200 Express bus to Martinez. Presently, it goes non-stop on Highway 4 to Martinez AMTRAK. It could take the exit North to Bailey Rd. and pick passengers before reaching Bailey Rd. The road was wide enough, I noted, for two large CalTran trucks parked on the same road adjacent to the moving exit traffic. On Bailey Road, an immediate left turn would put it back on Highway 4. A bus driver-controlled traffic light may, or not, be required.

Other changes are substantial. For example.

• Open access to Port Chicago Naval Base to local Tri-Delta Transit Bus to reach the North Concord/Martinez BART to connect with other bus lines. Later, greater access may be considered. Security may require TV Monitors around a fenced-in area to inspect a bus from all directions and use the internal TV Monitor to view the inside. The Driver would be expected to assure guards on the state of security. Limiting thru traffic to busses prevents use of Port Chicago Hwy Road to bypass Highway 4 gridlock at Willow Pass, twice daily. The issue of local car access, for Bay Point residents, may be reconsidered.

• Bay Point Marina should be developed to allow wider access to boat storage and ramps. Also, provisions for emergency supply ship loading/unloading. Bay Point has one of the BART terminals close to access to water traffic during emergencies.

• Widening Willow Pass to four lanes East of Bailey Rd. There were good reasons in the past to reduce traffic speed but those activities have been replaced with apartments with voters that need faster commute times.

• Extend Leland Rd. West, across the new upscale fine San Marcos development, uphill and south of Bay Point, with its school, to Avila Rd beyond the hill, down to Willow Pass Road south to Concord, road segments exist in private lands. This extension will reduce the, twice daily, massive congestion on Highway 4 at the Willow Pass, as would:

• Widening Bailey Rd south, to Concord.

• Widening Port Chicago Hwy Road to four lanes with ample shoulders through the, closed, Port Chicago Naval Base. Given the access and length, this path will be used mostly by Bay Point residents.