Urgent Safety Measures Announced as Costco Traffic Surge Looms

UPDATE: Urgent safety measures are being implemented in Saratoga as officials brace for a significant traffic surge due to the upcoming Costco opening at Prospect and Lawrence in San Jose. This development is set to increase local traffic by nearly tenfold, raising concerns over pedestrian safety, especially in school zones.

Authorities confirm that the new Costco, opening later this month, will funnel an influx of vehicles through Saratoga’s residential streets, which are already notorious for their lack of sidewalks and high speeds. “We’re witnessing a major shift that will impact our neighborhoods significantly,” said Belal Aftab, Mayor of Saratoga.

As the October 2023 opening approaches, residents are urged to take immediate precautions. Mayor Aftab emphasizes the importance of visibility during early mornings and evenings, recommending pedestrians carry small flashlights and wear reflective clothing to enhance safety. “A calmer Saratoga is a safer one,” he stated.

The current traffic landscape reveals serious issues. Key intersections, particularly around Fruitvale Avenue and Saratoga Avenue, frequently see congestion and accidents. The ramps to and from Highway 85 remain hotspots for crashes, while winding roads like Quito Road pose additional risks.

In response to the anticipated traffic chaos, the city has begun implementing new measures. This year, Saratoga has added buffered bike lanes, refreshed crosswalks, and installed solar beacons at critical crossings. “These upgrades may not be flashy, but they’re essential for making our streets safer,” Aftab explained.

Local officials, including Councilmember Rosemary Kamei, have been vocal in their outreach to Costco, seeking collaboration to mitigate the impact on surrounding neighborhoods. However, the response has been underwhelming. “We’ve reached out, but we need more than just words from Costco,” Kamei stated.

As the opening day draws closer, residents are encouraged to model safe driving habits. Mayor Aftab urges locals to adopt practices such as full stops at intersections and slower turns, as well as to actively report safety concerns and suggest improvements. “Some of our best ideas come from community feedback,” he noted.

Looking ahead, the city plans to continue monitoring traffic patterns and make adjustments where necessary. “We can’t fund everything immediately, but we are committed to making our streets safer and our community stronger,” Aftab affirmed.

As Saratoga prepares for this significant change, residents are reminded that their actions matter. By working together, the community can enhance safety and maintain the charm of Saratoga.

Stay informed as we bring you the latest developments on this urgent situation. Share your thoughts and suggestions with local officials to help shape a safer Saratoga for everyone.