Web Link
We keep being told "No decision has been made yet", but it is clear to me that the decision HAS already been made! It appears to me that no matter how many people are against this, there is simply too much money involved for them to pass up this project.
What happened in San Jose is exactly the kind of problem that I have been concerned about. They keep telling us about all the great things the project is supposed to accomplish, but what about all the NEGATIVE impacts associated with it?
They cut down 135 trees including several decades old redwoods for 1 LANE! Can you imagine how many will get the ax if this runs all the way up El Camino? I guess we should be thankful that they are not yet considering running BRT to the North Bayshore or both the feral cats and the burrowing owls would be toast!
According to the article linked above, the VTA held several meetings about the BRT lanes, but the tree cutting was not the focus of any of the meetings, nor was it mentioned in the online fact sheet that was posted.
The VTA's response was to say that they will plant two trees for every one that they cut down. Oh really? Where? I'm sure that the redwoods that were massacred will take solace in that.
Jim Neal
Candidate, Mountain View City Council
http://electneal.org
info@electneal.org