The Broken window theory of Policing says, fix the little things, the bigger things follow. OPD currently writes a total of 3 speeding tix a day (OPD internal data). By comparison, Fresno (similar population) writes 600. No tickets = speeders = feeling of unsafe streets = more crime. Lets Start with a warning period (3-6 months) with the message that Oakland won't tolerate lawlessness (aka speeding) any more. It'll allow Police officers to learn how to talk to citizens and warn them (everyone loves NOT getting a ticket) and lets change the culture and our streets. We did it in Fresno (increased tickets led to statistically significant reductions in serious trauma, Journal of Trauma, Davis, et al). Don't like citations = DONT Speed. Thanks! (David Pepper MD)
Oakland has one of the most impressive park systems in the country. Problem is, they're in intense disrepair. The city should pass a bond to refurbish all city parks and codify into law park equality. For too long Oakland has supported some parks at the cost of others: some neighborhoods at the cost of others. We can do better.
CA VC 27150, 27151, and 27200-02 explicitly define permissible exhaust certification, modifications and noise levels. Sadly, these laws are not enforced; at all. Illegally loud vehicles, mostly motorcycles, destroy our quality of life day and night, all over the city. Living in this city would be a lot more pleasant if these laws were enforced.
Downtown has too many one way streets that create confusion, encourage high speeds and reduce access to some areas.
One-ways were a terrible mistake. They make the city more dangerous and confusing to navigate, they encourage speeding, and there's solid evidence that they're bad for local businesses.
They also send a message. They say "this is a place to drive through, not a place to be." They say "we value the convenience of commuters over the lives of residents." Let's stop sending that message.
Green the streets by taking streets that need repaving and simulaneously creating new 'bulb outs' for new street tree planters that can also function as bioswale stormwater management for wet periods. This would lessen water runoff - both helping to recharge and clean local ground water and runoff, as well as create new shade and visual appeal to streets. (see image for example in Portland)