Quito Road traffic jams warrant stoplight check-up from San Jose: Roadshow

Plus, we hear more about cyclists, and one biker shares why he gave up the hobby

Q: The continuation of Lawrence Expressway, Quito Road, is a major commuting axis for west San Jose. The poorly timed traffic light at the Quito-Bucknall intersection causes major traffic jams during commute times and delays outside of commute hours.

When compared to Quito’s much larger volume of traffic, the light prioritizes Bucknall traffic far too much. Long lines form on Quito, reaching all the way to the congested Quito/Saratoga intersection. Meanwhile, Bucknall is only used by a few cars.

Guarisco, Davide

A: The city’s traffic signals team will check detection equipment and signal timing here, according to a Colin-the-city-spokesman. They will also monitor peak-hour traffic and, if necessary, adjust timing.

Q: You were unsupportive in your response to cyclist Barry Goldman-Hall’s message about his harrowing experiences while riding safely. Instead of recognizing that most avid road cyclists, such as Barry, ride respectfully and attentively, you instead exonerate irresponsible motorists by pointing to reckless behavior of young bicyclists. What was your point there? That children serve as justification for motorists’ contempt and disregard for bicyclists?

Gilroy, John Gerling

A: Absolutely not. Barry thanked me for writing about cars and bicyclists coexisting peacefully on the road. The message, as I wrote in that column, was for everyone to pay attention and help keep themselves and others safe. We travel in the same space.

Q: I was driving north on El Camino in Menlo Park around 7:30 p.m. one recent evening. A cyclist riding south without reflective clothing, bike lights, or a helmet crossed in front of me. I slammed on the brakes and honked. He gave me the so-called “rude salute.” I could have ended his life and ruined mine if I hadn’t been able to stop in time.

Redwood City resident Carol Zink

A: You’re lucky you saw him and stopped in time.

Q: Your readers have mentioned that young bicycle riders are frequently not taught the rules or the etiquette of the road. We older riders are also hesitant to accept some lessons. I patiently taught my 5-year-old grandson to ride a bike, encouraging him to be positive: “Come on, Jesse. You’ve got this. Continue to try. I’ll be waiting for you.”

We had many enjoyable rides together over the years until I realized what he was saying to me one day. “All right, Grandpa. You’ve got this. Continue to try. I’ll be waiting for you.” I could still ride, but at the age of 81, I realized I wasn’t as stable as I once was. I descended from the saddle one last time before walking off into the sunset.

Scotts Valley resident Norm Smith

A: Thank you for sharing your wonderful story.