The draft General Plan recently approved by Alhambra’s Planning  Commission recommended a heightened priority to “develop a bikeway system with input from the community, and consider adoption of a system that prioritizes rider safety in order to provide say and efficiency connectivity for bicycles throughout the city, and consider integration with bikeway systems from neighboring cities.”

The commission’s language speaks to past criticism that the bike plan map included in the General Plan needed to be more comprehensive, while keeping traffic safety in mind.

The city council will take up the draft General Plan this month.

Traffic has long been a complex issue in Alhambra. The recent 626 Golden Streets Event, which closed off many streets in the city to vehicular traffic, was deemed a success to those advocating alternative forms of transportation. But away from the 626 route, residents driving cars faced frustrating traffic congestion unusual for a Sunday.  How to keep traffic moving and bicyclists safe is the challenge for many cities, including Alhambra.

Our Leah Chang took to the streets for a perspective on bicycle safety from the local cycling community.

Did you miss our other bike-related coverage? Catch up here:

• No Cars Allowed: Exclusive Photo and Video Highlights from 626 Golden Streets
• Crowds Flock to 626 Golden Streets After Event Starts with Rain
• Brush Up On Your Bicycle Knowledge Before 626 Golden Streets