Are there two streets-related measures aiming to qualify for the November 2024 ballot?
Yes. The two are the Fix the Streets and Sidewalks Initiative, sponsored by Berkeleyans for Better Planning, and the Sustainable and Accountable Funding for Equitable Street Transformation, Revitalization, Enhancements, and Essential Traffic Safety (“SAFE STREETS”) Initiative, sponsored by Berkeley Citizens for Safe Streets.
Why are there two competing measures on the ballot?
The people behind the Fix the Streets and Sidewalks and the SAFE STREETS measure worked for months to try to craft one initiative to take to the voters that everyone could stand behind. Ultimately, the two sides could not agree.
What are the major differences between the measures?
Fix the Streets is focused on paving ALL the streets that aren’t rated in good condition and fixing ALL the sidewalks and pedestrian pathways. SAFE STREETS aspires to bring streets to good condition on AVERAGE, which could leave many streets in a deteriorated state, provides additional funds for sidewalks and pathways, and would raise substantial additional funds for “safety” purposes that are only vaguely defined and could include controversial projects such as closing off Telegraph Ave. to cars and building hardscape bike lanes on major streets and through commercial corridors. In addition, Fix the Streets requires that our street investments be evaluated and creates an oversight body that is independent of the City Council, while SAFE STREETS is silent on evaluations and relies on a commission hand-picked by Council .
Other major differences are summarized in this table.
I want the streets fixed. Is it okay to vote for both measures, just to make sure at least one passes?
Yes. However, it is quite possible that both initiatives will pass, so you will be leaving it to others to decide which is the better measure.
What happens if both measures pass?
The one that receives more votes prevails.