One of the primary reasons I ran for City Council was a simple but vital goal: making East Palo Alto a more walkable and bikeable city. To achieve that, we need infrastructure that doesn't just exist, but actually feels safe and welcoming to use. Recently, we secured an "easy win" that perfectly illustrates how small changes can make a massive difference in our community’s daily life.

The Problem: A Well-Intentioned "Privacy" Curtain

For years, the Clarke Avenue Pedestrian Bridge was equipped with a large privacy curtain. While originally designed to protect the privacy of residents living adjacent to the bridge, it unfortunately created a "blind spot" that invited unintended consequences.

The curtain provided a shielded area that became a magnet for loitering, substance use, and illegal camping. Because the police couldn't see onto the bridge and the area was naturally isolated, it felt "sketchy" and unsafe. Instead of a thoroughfare for families and commuters, it became a spot many residents actively avoided.

Collaboration in Action

The push for change started with a conversation. Chris Kao, then-Chair of the Public Works and Transportation Commission, brought the issue to my attention during one of our regular walks along the Bay Trail. Last summer, he made a compelling case: the curtain had to go.

It was a classic case of “once you see it, you can’t unsee it.” The data was clear—trash and prohibited behavior were heavily concentrated exactly where the curtain provided cover.

Seeing the Results

I formally requested to staff the curtain’s removal last September. Our excellent Public Works staff led by Humza Javed took quick action. After moving through the Public Works Commission, the barrier was finally taken down earlier this year.

Recently—after finally getting my bike tuned up at the Live in Peace Bike Shop—I’ve had the chance to ride across the bridge several times. The transformation is remarkable:

• Visibility: The "shadow" is gone, and the entire span is visible and open.
• Cleanliness: Without the hidden nook, the bridge is significantly cleaner.
• Safety: In my recent trips, the loitering that once defined the crossing has vanished.

Why This Matters

Safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure is vital for a thriving East Palo Alto. No matter how many bridges we build, people won't use them if they don't feel safe. By removing this barrier, we’ve reclaimed a piece of our city for the people who walk, bike, and commute every day.

This is just one step in a larger effort to make our streets safer for everyone. I look forward to finding more "easy wins" like this that improve our quality of life, one block at a time.