Information Exchange

Please send messages/announcements to Dan Kirshner.

May 15, 2008. Car to avoid

VA (female) wrote:

I got into a car with two males -- one black and one white -- and a black woman. I sat in the front seat. I noticed that the driver kept looking over and staring at me. The male passenger in the back seat said "You sure are fine. You would make a lot of money." The woman said that she had her own escort service in San Francisco and that she goes to the Financial District and SoMa to have sex with businessmen. The car smelled like marijuana and like they had been drinking. When I got out of the car in San Francisco I noticed the man in the back had a gun.

I called the SFPD and the OPD. The car was a Mercedes-Benz CLS 500 black coupe. The driver was a black male, mid 20s to early 30s, clean-cut, wearing a black suit. White male passenger early to mid 20s, white, button-collar shirt, silver slacks. Black female passenger teen to early 20s, long black hair, hazel eyes, black-framed glasses.

February 26, 2008. North Berkeley driver to avoid

TP wrote:

Unsafe/angry/odd driver - North Berkeley casual carpool

Avoid this man. Newer, white Toyota pickup. License plate 74KKK.

Asked me if I had a cell phone. When I replied "yes", he asked me to turn my cell phone off! Claimed the "radiation" gives him headaches. In carpool lane on 80, he broke up suddenly in order to mess with a person he claimed was tailgating him only a car length behind him. He received multiple angry horns from the vehicle behind. He seemed very agitated and drove erratically. He held up traffic on Fremont St. exit instead of merging with North bound traffic causing many horns from both oncoming and traffic behind him.

His description is white male with gray hair and mustache in his late 50's, early 60's.

April 29, 2008. EM confirms:

This same guy scared the heck out of me in March. I'm a big guy so wasn't intimidated but I don't think this man was mentally stable. He cut off a few other drivers and was concerned that I would threaten his health with my walkman and cell phone (which were both off). His pickup truck only takes one causal carpooler.

February 6, 2008. Oakland Ave. driver to avoid

EB wrote:

This morning at the Oakland Avenue pick-up the white, middle-aged male driver of a gray Nissan "sportscar" (the Altima coupe, maybe?) with a brownish red interior rejected several people in line in order to hand-pick two young Asian women. He claimed that the first person in line (also a woman) would not fit in his car and so he had to take "two small ladies" (he also skipped over the men in line before his chosen women). There were many riders waiting for drivers and most people were taking 3 or more, but he would only take two small handpicked women.

I just want to warn people against riding with him due to his discriminatory (and very creepy) behavior. I would not get in a car with him.

Another identifying feature of his car is that he had an 8-ball decal on the trunk emblem.

December 13, 2007. Alameda - Park & Encinal tickets

JS wrote:

A sheriff is now handing out $250 tickets to casual carpool drivers waiting to pick up passengers at Park and Encinal in Alameda. He stipulates they cannot park their cars in the red zone. There isn't anything but red zone at the location and his advice is to move casual carpool.

November 30, 2007. Alameda - Park & Encinal

DS wrote:

I pick up carpoolers at the casual carpool location in Alameda every morning, the one located at Park Ave. and Encinal. Almost always there is a line of cars waiting for people which causes us to have to park in the bus lane there where the OX stops. This morning an Alameda Co. sherriff came and made us all leave, he said we cannot park at the bus stop or within 75 feet behind it, only the 2 cars in the red zone around the bend on Park Ave. were allowed to stay. So my question is how are we supposed to wait for people if there is nowhere there for us to wait? The red zone on Park Ave. only accomodates 3 cars tops and if we cannot park within 75 feet of the bus stop at that corner, then how will carpoolers even know we are waiting for them? It is a residential area and there are not any open street spots all down that block.

November 4, 2007. Citations at Del Norte

EC wrote:

BART is giving out citations to people who are parking in their lot and using carpool. BART posted flyers on vehicles two weeks ago stating that the parking lot was for patrons who used BART to and from their destinations. Apparently they have a BART police officer watching vehicles enter the lot and if you leave the lot they will try to give you a verbal warning. If you continue to leave they will give you a $25 ticket.

November 1, 2007. Grand Lake: Vouching for the white van

BF wrote:

I am a daily CC passenger from the Grand Lake pickup. This morning, the vehicle at the front of the line was a 2-seater, large white cargo van, with an El Salvador bumper sticker.

As I approached the line of cars, I saw a number of passengers entering vehicles further back in the line. No one would get into this man's van. Allow me to say here that I totally understand the general reservation of getting in a two-seater, especially a non-descript cargo van.

However, the point of my message is that the driver, named Jose, was really friendly, a fine driver, and has nothing about him which to fear. He spoke lovingly of his young daughter, whose picture hung from his rear-view mirror, and offered me an extended ride in the direction he was heading (which didn't happen to be where I was heading.)

Anyways, I asked him if he often has to wait a while before a passenger enters his car, and he replied understandingly that a lot of people, especially women, prefer not to ride in a two-seater. He then said that unfortunately, he also feels that many people avoid his car because he is Latino. It was this comment in particular that prompted me to post this message, as I simply wanted to vouch for his class and his character, and hope that our community of casual carpoolers continues to live up to a high standard of cooperation and synergy. This community has no place for racial or ethnic profiling.

Long live casual carpool.

June 9, 2008. NR adds:

Same exact experience with the white cargo van with the El Salvador sticker. Great guy, no reason to pass this car up! (and I'm a female)

October 9, 2007. North Berkeley problem drivers

RB wrote:

Reckless Driver
Vehicle: Dark Blue Honda Accord
Driver: Male, 50s, gray hair, gray mustache, slightly overweight, business casual dress
Behavior: Almost hit numerous bicyclists and pedestrians and then yelled at them. Yes, more than one in less than 3 blocks. Made right turn from left lane and then committed road rage against driver that was in the right lane and honked when almost hit. Drives across many lanes in jerky movements. Tailgates. Does not use his own seatbelt until he sees police. Speeds. Got agreement on this assessment from other riders.

Religious Radio Listener
Vehicle: Silver Honda CR-V
Driver: Female, late 20s/early 30s, East Asian, thin, long hair, very pleasant looking
Behavior: Listens to seriously conservative religious radio (http://www.kfia.com/) and hands out religious propaganda to passengers. Example of topics: buying the perfect bride; the evil and sin of Victoria's Secret catalogue; etc. Will turn up the volume on the radio if a passenger opens reading material or shows distraction in any other way, such as looking out the window or closing eyes. Drives slowly and, albeit safely, switches lanes from one end of the highway to the other, presumably to elongate the ride. I had the misfortune of riding with this woman more than once, so I noticed the pattern. Also, even if the line is not long at North Berkeley casual carpool, she will wait to take 3 passengers, presumably to spread The Word to as many people as possible.

April 29, 2008. EM adds:

I rode with both of these drivers in February and March of 2008. The first is a danger and menace. I intend to take his picture the next time I see him to help the police when he kills someone. I am kicking myself for not having done so.

The Religious Asian woman is harmless, I think. She's a good driver and, while I object to her evangelizing, it was pretty subtle. I did not perceive her taking too long on her drive or going too slow. She did hand out a flier to me as I left, but if you live in Berkeley you gotta expect that stuff. I would ride with her again. I might give her a Richard Dawkins flier next time though :)

May 5, 2008. TR adds:

Yes, "reckless driver" is terrifying. And he thinks he's good -- has no idea he's scaring others. AVOID! His license has "YUV" near the beginning.

September 18, 2007. Carquinez Bridge Carpool Lanes

RE wrote:

As a carpooler in this new configuration where carpools now pass at the far left end of the toll plaza, I am afraid that an accident is waiting to happen while taking lanes toward exiting to Sonoma Blvd. Many carpoolers take this exit when dropping riders in Lemon St./ Curtola Parkway instead of the 780 route. It is such a short stretch from the toll plaza and you have to cross three lanes to exit. I just hope that they redirect the carpool lane where it was before the configuration (at the middle lane).

March 5, 2007. Reckless driver

ST wrote:

Vehicle: Dodge Pickup, Four Door, Silver/Metallic, Firefighter Logo on back window.

Driver: White male, 30’s, goatee, overweight, very short light brown hair, black leather jacket.

Reason for Alert: On Monday, March 05, 2007, 5:45am the driver picked up two passengers.
• The driver slammed on the brakes repeatedly.
• The driver swerved back and forth across four lanes of traffic at a high rate of speed.
• The driver tailgated other vehicles.

January 11, 2007. Female passengers only?

MM wrote:

I wanted to find out the etiquette of woman drivers allowing only women passengers into their cars, following news of the carjacking this week. I may be presumptuous in assuming that a woman would not commit a violent crime like this, but I am generally much more comfortable accepting women into my car. Is this unfair profiling of men, or warranted in light of the carjacking news?

[It's our experience that this is not uncommon, and that such choices are respected without comment or disapproval.]

January 9, 2007. Woman carjacked

BM wrote:

A coworker picked up a carpooler this morning from the Hercules Transit Center. The rider waited until she arrived at the SF Bus Terminal, pretended to get out of the car, then turned to her and said to keep driving and threatened that he had a bomb. He repeatedly asked for her purse and wanted her to drive him to Richmond.

After driving him around the area for a few minutes, she managed to pull over while he was distracted and was able to get out of the car. He took her car, hit a cab, and drove off. This has been reported both to SFPD and the Hercules PD.

She is fortunately safe.

[A news story is available here: http://cbs5.com/topstories/local_story_010012937.html]

November 2, 2006. Lafayette activity?

GM wrote:

I have driven by the pick up in Lafayette a couple or mornings and not seen anyone waiting. There are all sorts of "no parking / bike lane" signs along that stretch of road. Could the pick up point have moved?

Is there a way to solicit potential riders? I live in Pleasant Hill and would love to hook up with folks from that area.

October 31, 2006. Orinda parking?

DC wrote:

I wanted to ask riders who use the Orinda casual carpool on Bryant Way where they park their cars. I am new to Orinda and would like to casual carpool. The BART lot is obviously out and the city has limited the parking hours around the pick up point.

October 31, 2006. Grand and Perkins back to gas station

FR wrote:

Just a note to let you know that the carpool has returned to the gas station at Grand and Perkins (formerly a Shell station, now an Eagle station), and is no longer picking up in front of the dry cleaners.

October 9, 2006. New Emeryville location

MT wrote:

I just wanted to make sure you knew that 6363 Christie Ave is now an "official" Casual Carpool pick up spot - since the Homeowners Associations have stopped their bus services due to low ridership, they have put up a Casual Carpool sign next to the Emery-Go-Round shuttle stop/J Bus Stop - so there are now 2 spots to pick up in Emeryville.

I am a driver and am usually looking for passengers around 9 am or even a bit later, so I wanted to encourage people looking for rides around then not to give up hope! Traffic at the tolls has been bad even past 10 am, so I generally look for riders.

Also, I wanted to encourage other drivers - on Fridays when the traffic is light there are more people looking for cars to carpool in - I like to "pay back" the riders by picking them up, even on a non-traffic day, just to make sure that they get a ride. It's good karma!

Thanks for maintaining the site!

October 1, 2006. Car stolen at Fruitvale

EC wrote:

I've carpooled and parked my car at the Park and Ride at Fruitvale and Montana Street for 8 years and I loved it. On Monday, September 25th my 1996 Honda Civic was stolen...

Why is there no policeman monitoring Fruitvale Park and Ride? In my eight years I've parked there I have seen maybe 3 cops monitoring the lot. Is it possible we can have camera surveillance?

Many thanks.

September 26, 2006. Vacaville carpools response

HS wrote:

Response to MS:

I live in Vacaville and would love to see the casual carpool start up in either of the Park ‘n’ Ride lots there, but to my knowledge it has not done so. The easternmost pickup point, as far as I know, is the Fairfield Transportation Center, at the corner of Auto Mall and Cadenasso. This is a full-fledged casual carpool location; there is a sign there, plenty of people base their carpools there, it’s well-lit, seems to have plenty of parking, and it seems safer and a shorter wait than Vallejo. If you need more info/directions to Fairfield Transportation Ctr, or if you may be interested in a regular carpool from Vacaville, e-mail me.

July 28, 2006. Vacaville carpools?

MS wrote:

There is a Park-n-Ride on Cliffside (Peabody exit, across from Costco) just off 80 in Vacaville. Does anyone casual carpool from this location? Any information on the Fairfield lot would also be appreciated.

July 19, 2006. North Berkeley question

MNG wrote:

I was wondering what solutions casual carpoolers are coming up with now that North Berkeley BART is charging $1 for parking in the lot? I assume you have to go inside the toll gate to pay for parking. I am lucky enough so that I can walk in 15 minutes, but I hate the idea of coming home late from the city and not having a car to go home in.

Thanks.

July 14, 2006. Etiquette additions

JK wrote:

As a long-time carpool passenger, I'd like to add a couple other etiquette items:

* If there is still a substantial line of passengers as it gets after 6pm, drivers are urged to take as many people as their vehicles can hold so as many passengers as possible can get rides home.

* If you are a passenger in a vehicle which crosses a toll bridge after 7pm, you are urged to offer enough to cover /more than your share/ of the toll (e.g. $2 instead of $1 in a 3-person carpool). This will encourage drivers to continue picking up passengers later into the evening, plus it's still a great deal for the passenger.

* Drivers are encouraged to offer an approximate final destination in San Francisco (e.g. Civic Center, south of Market, Financial District or cross streets). Passengers greatly appreciate riding for a few extra blocks if your commute routes partially overlap. You might even meet a permanent carpool passenger!

* Passengers are encouraged to be considerate of other passengers who might have tall or large bodies which more comfortably fit in front seats than back.

* Passengers should assume that food and drink are not allowed in driver's cars.

* Drivers should be considerate of passengers when listening to music, news or talk radio. Rear speakers and subwoofers produce much more sound than side door speakers, so please keep your volume in check.

* Drivers are encouraged to drive extra cautiously when commuting with passengers, particularly when it comes to lane changes to and from the diamond lane. There have been more than a few accidents involving casual carpool vehicles. Passengers notice and even gossip about the wild drivers. This may cost you time waiting in line if your vehicle is skipped by them.

This is a bit harsh sounding to me:

"Car pool etiquette seems to be that passengers remain silent unless the driver initiates conversation."

How about:

* Drivers generally should be the ones to initiate any conversation. Passengers should keep in mind that some drivers need or prefer to keep their minds focused on the road than chat.

[All excellent suggestions. They've been incorporated in the Introduction to Casual Carpools page. Thanks!]

June 26, 2006. Del Norte Police Activity

EC wrote:

This morning the El Cerrito Police Department coned off a section of the street just before the carpool pickup. One of the officers informed those waiting in the carpool line that they could not block traffic if their car was idling outside of their partition and told them to leave immediately.

I phoned the El Cerrito Police Department and spoke with the Watch Officer and he stated that the officers were doing a Commercial Vehicle Inspection that morning. He said they might periodically do them every 1 - 2 months. Please be aware of this nuisance.

I don't know if the El Cerrito Police Department has some sort of disdain towards the casual carpool program, but on more than a few occasions I have seen them come out periodically in force at Cutting Blvd. and target carpoolers and pull them over.

June 22, 2006. Insurance question

MF wrote:

I am a Driver and pick up in Hercules, had a new person get into my BRAND NEW CAR, when arrived in SF he opened the door into oncoming traffic and a moving truck. I now have damage to the back door.

Here is my question - Are the riders responsible for damage they cause or am I out of pocket?

Thanks

June 19, 2006. Vallejo - gas siphon

DA wrote:

I had my car broken into on 6/14 while parked on Woodrow & Lemon. I was parked on the street pretty close to the front of someone's house. I always thought the car would be safer there but obviously parking on that street can be as bad as having your windows broken out in the lot.

Besides taking things from inside my car and my trunk (I don't really keep anything of value in my car as I know break-ins are prevalent) they ruptured my fuel filler tube in their attempt to siphon gas. I spoke with the Sheriff's Dept and they assured me that they patrol that street. (I think I've seen them there maybe 4-5 times in 2 yrs.) I think the criminals are pretty brazen and sure of themselves when in broad daylight in front of someone's house they break into your car AND siphon your gas.

I can't think of any safe alternatives.

June 12, 2006. Richmond Parkway - $3/day parking

WJ wrote:

This issue needs to be addressed over and over again, now that they have started charging an outrageous $3.00 for parking in the Richmond parkway parking lot. The lot is always 1/2 empty - people refuse to pay it - and I don't blame them.

Maybe $1 if any for a charge but $3.00 is crazy. You already spend $3.50 each way on the bus - that's $7.00. And to top it off another $3.00 - that's $10.00 per day. Totally unreasonable.

I hope no one uses the parking lot until somebody comes to their senses.

June 6, 2006. Etiquette question

AH wrote:

I would like to explore being a casual carpool driver. Is it okay to ask people not to bring drinks (coffee etc.) into my new car?

Thanks.

[I would think so. It's not a great inconvenience for passengers - they just have to get in the next car.]

June 3, 2006. Del Norte - don't block OSH driveway

LT wrote:

One little problem at Del Norte -- drivers became accustomed to blocking the driveway at the pickup spot, since the parking lot there was vacant. Now that OSH is open, it causes problems for those entering and exiting the lot, even in the morning.

Thanks!

May 23, 2006. Grand & Perkins - on north side of street

AO wrote:

I just wanted to send an update on the Grand and Perkins pickup location. I am a rider and a driver; things seemed to have smoothed out overall. Passengers are now standing on the North side of Perkins, in front of the Dry Cleaners. The only down side is that there aren't as many cars for passengers to ride in. I am hoping that drivers will see this email and start coming back to this location for carpool.

Thank You!

May 7, 2006. Alameda - Encinal & Park times

JG wrote:

I pick up people frequently at this spot and notice there are usually one to three cars waiting and passengers coming up on a regular basis during typical morning commute hours (7 to 9 am). I think it is difficult to make connections after (9:30 or so).

QUESTION: Why doesn't the City of Alameda post official carpooling signs at several locations along the "O" bus route? Do other cities do this?

[Other cities do set aside curb space. Alameda officials began to look into this 2½ years ago, but nothing happened. Contact was Phillip Lee, Land and Transportation Development, 510 749 5847.]

April 18, 2006. Alameda - Encinal & Park - does anyone know times?

TC wrote:

I will be a first-time rider in Alameda on Encinal and Park Ave. I've driven by and have not seen anyone in line nor cars stopping. I'm wondering what time the car pool starts at that location. Do you know what time in the morning that people usually wait in line? When is a busy time for riders to line up at the Encinal and Park Ave location? Thanks.

April 16, 2006. Grand & Perkins - move to north side of street?

JA wrote:

It's been about two and a half weeks since I've stopped picking up riders at the Grand Perkins gas stations spot. I felt unsafe following the lead of others lining my car up in the opposing lane of traffic (anyone coming off Grand and not paying attention could hit the first parked car head-on). I tried to be a role model and park on the north side, near the market, while putting on my emergency lights, but no one followed my lead. It just seemed more natural to point my car in the direction traffic flows. It was also frustrating to watch riders walk up to the other side and not notice me over there. I just sat until I had an incentive to try another car pool pick up area (under 580 near Grande Lake Theater).

If it's changed and become more organized, I might check it out in the morning.

April 10, 2006. Grand & Perkins - move to north side of street?

SR wrote:

Now that we know the Shell station will be closed indefinitely, it would make a lot more sense for the casual car-pool pick-up location to be on the North side of the street in front of the corner market. There's a yellow curb there and drivers wouldn't have to either drive on the wrong side of the street to pick up passengers or turn around in the street. Would it be okay to put a sign there?

April 7, 2006. Gas station (Grand & Perkins) closed

KQ wrote:

The owner was trying to sell the gas station but since he didn't get any decent offers, he decided to just shut it down.

April 5, 2006. Advice: fastest way from Lake Merritt to the bridge

ML wrote:

I am a rider and have compared the time it takes to get to the toll plaza on the various routes taken by drivers. The quickest way BY FAR, and consistently, is getting onto 580 at Harrison St. (if the pick up is from Perkins) or Grand Ave. (if the pick up is at Lakeshore).

Please, please, drivers, try it out. It is much faster than hitting all the traffic lights in Oakland. And DON'T take Grand all the way to the 80 onramp. It's always a mess, and gridlocked. It takes 10 minutes from the end of Grand just to get into the carpool lane.

580 rarely has heavy traffic getting into the carpool lane.

March 28, 2006. Charging for parking - Richmond Parkway

WJ wrote:

I think it is ridiculous to charge parking to commuters..if you are trying to encourage people to use public transportation.. charging for parking on top of the increase in public transportation, Buses, Bart, and on top of that gas.. give me a break..

I was using Richmond parkway to ride share.. but when I found out about the charge for parking..and the limited amount of space I decided to drive to Central ave and use the ride share on Pierce street at least there is parking and plenty of cars to pick you up..

February 28, 2006. North Berkeley to Civic Center lines

JA wrote:

I read the e-mail from a new rider dated 2/17 and find it confusing. I have been using North Berkeley BART casual carpool for a year and would like to clarify.

There are two parallel queues -- the queue along the bushes is where you will find Civic Center riders, and the curbside queue is where riders for San Francisco wait.

The queue starts at the newspaper boxes, facing traffic (it's weird, like in an elevator).

The Civic Center-bound cars stop south of the newspaper boxes, and the San Francisco bound cars pull up to but not past the newspaper boxes.

There are occasionally drivers who hold up or place signs for "Civic Center" on their dashboard.

February 17, 2006. North Berkeley to Civic Center lines

RR wrote:

I am new to the driver side of the casual carpool at North Berkeley BART station and found out this morning from a kindly passenger that rides to downtown SF line up beginning at the newspaper stands vs. Civic Center rides which line up ahead of the newspaper stands (more in line with the crosswalk). I haven't seen any "Civic Center" signs employed by riders or drivers.

Thanks!

December 6, 2005. Hudson & Claremont break-in

MG wrote:

Just wanted to report that I have been a rider in casual carpool for about 6 months and park my car at the Hudson spot every day. This evening, I found my car had been broken into.

Thanks.

November 17, 2005. Letter re: Richmond parking

MM wrote to Richmond Mayor Anderson:

Dear Mayor Anderson,

I am a daily commuter from Richmond Parkway. As you probably know, the Park & Ride lot fills fairly early in the morning. As you also probably know, parking in the area is difficult. While I understand the local mall does not want commuters parking in their parking lot, I wonder why they would chase commuters from the empty parking lot between IHop and the movie theater on Klose Way. Given that most commuters park during the day and vacate spaces between 4:30 and 6:30 daily, it is frustrating to be respectful of the mall's customers, park far away and still receive notices of tow intention on your car.

I don't mind paying for parking, however, this is not an option as there is no place to pay and park. If Hilltop Park & Ride offered the benefits of carpooling, it could and would be a viable alternative. Additionally, I have been advised several places not to park on the street because of ticketing.

Several of my fellow commuters and I speak often of the problem and frustrations. What are commuters supposed to do in order to utilize Richmond Parkway Park & Ride? Is this problem a Richmond City issue, Caltrans, AC Transit, or the management of the local mall? Can anything be done, or are there plans to do anything? Getting information out to commuters can help. Right now, many of us are at a loss.

Thank you for your time.

November 1, 2005. Response re: Oakland Grand & Perkins

JW wrote:

I don't know what the concern is about Grand and Perkins, but folks are queueing up daily in the gas station driveway.

October 19, 2005. Info request - Oakland Grand & Perkins

AB wrote:

Has the issue of rider pick up at Grand and Perkins been resolved? Are people queueing on Perkins now? I went to pick up riders this morning and couldn't see anyone waiting. If anyone has info, please let me know. Thanks for this message board... otherwise, no way to get info.

October 18, 2005. Alameda - Webster & Santa Clara

CO wrote:

In Alameda (West End), there is a a need to unite the pick-up location to one spot. Currently, there is not an actual posted location and random drivers stop on Webster or Santa Clara to pick up riders.

Recently, the bus stop at the corner of Santa Clara and Webster moved. It is now on Wester. Subsequently, the old location on Santa Clara is an ideal location for Casual Car-Pool pick-ups.

If you are a rider or driver, please make this the only location you stop. Also, please observe common courtesies, form a line, and inform other participants that we want an official spot on the West End.

Thank you.

October 11, 2005. Extend carpool hours?

PR wrote:

Is there a way commuters could petition to have the carpooling hours extended from 3:00-7:00 to 3:00-7:30 or perhaps 8:00 pm? This is especially needed on the Vallejo commute. I notice that the wait for drivers is longer and I'm thinking it's not only due to the rising gas prices but with the work going on with the 1960 span of the Carquinez bridge which is causing more traffic. Maybe drivers feel that since it's going to be traffic anyway, why stop and pick up riders?

I resorted into taking the ferry until the project is complete, hoping that things will return to "normal", but there has to be a way to get either Caltrans or whoever is in charge of making the necessary laws for carpooling.

Thanks

[As usual, I suggest contacting your city councilperson. Hopefully they could then pass it on to the regional Metropolitan Transportation Commission representative, and eventually some combination of MTC and Caltrans could act on this suggestion...]

September 21, 2005. Alameda Park & Ride

Andy Anderson, City of Alameda, wrote:

The City has asked me to contact you regarding the Park & Ride lot the City established on Island Drive next to the Grand Pavilion. There are over 120 free parking spaces and there is an AC Transit Transbay bus stop at this location. Would you please disseminate this information on your web site as an option for carpoolers. Thanks. Any questions please call (510) 749-5860.

Andy Anderson

September 19, 2005. Hercules parking fees

Alan Lee, Customer Access, BART 510 464 6121 wrote:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PROPOSED PARKING FEES FOR THE BART OWNED
HERCULES PARK AND RIDE LOT

On Thursday, September 22, 2005, at 9:00 a.m. the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) Board will convene a public hearing for receiving comments on proposed new parking fees at the BART-owned Hercules Park and Ride lot. The purpose of establishing these parking fees is to provide priority parking to users of public transit.

The meeting will be held in the BART Board Room, 344 20th Street, 3rd floor, Oakland, California, 94612.

The Board will consider fees up to $8.00 for daily parking and a monthly reserved parking fee up to $105.00. BART staff is recommending approval of following parking options:

$3.00 daily fee which includes WestCat bus tickets to and from the El Cerrito del Norte Station;
$63.00 monthly reserved parking pass; and
$80.00 monthly reserved parking pass which includes $40.00 worth of WestCat bus tickets

Comments may be made at the hearing or by e-mail to khagert@bart.gov. For more information please call June Garrett, BART Government and Community Relations Representative, 510-464-6257.

September 2, 2005. Re: Hercules scary ride

WJ wrote:

Sounds to me like you were just nervous because of the type of people in the car.. how many times have you seen people flip off another driver..every one does.. and as far as not speaking..I have gotten in a car with conservative looking people suit and tie types..and said hello.. and got nothing.. "who cares" just get me to work..

I think you should relax..

August 22, 2005. Vallejo - women's self-defense

Lia Nagase wrote:

Hello,

My sister passed on the posting from the woman who may be scared of the carpool because of the recent attacks. I work for a fantastic nonprofit self-defense organization whose services might help these women continue carpooling by becoming that much safer. We teach boundary-setting, de-escalation, and full-force physical techniques should they be necessary. It's really an incredible tool that's helped me ride, walk, and live more safely and has done the same for my sister, mom, many friends, and other women. More information can be found at www.impactbayarea.org. I hope that this can be offered as a potential solution.

Sincerely,
Lia Nagase
Office Manager - Course Coordinator
Impact Bay Area
(510)208-0474

August 22, 2005. Hercules scary ride

Anon (female) wrote:

This morning, when I saw the two young people, I hesitated but since I was the only one in line and this was the only car there, I got in. The driver of the dark green 4 door car was a young male with a young female passenger. I got in, said good morning and didn't hear a reply. The driver's seat was reclined to a very low position, rap music (at least it was turned down low) was playing in the background and what really made start to feel nervous was when the young woman in the front passenger side gave the finger to a car that braked too quickly in front of us. The driver drove fast whenever he had an opportunity to. There was one close call when the driver had to suddenly brake because he driving so fast. The dropoff was fine, but this is one car that I'll pass on next time. This license plate ends in W861.

August 15, 2005. New rider - afraid at Vallejo

Hi all,

I'm new to Vallejo, and am beginning to quest into what casual carpooling might be like. I'm concerned, however, having read the terrible attack stories about the Lemon Street pickup area. Has this changed? Should I be utterly freaked out and alarmed?

For years, I picked up riders at Fruitvale and hauled them into the city, and it was efficient and wonderful, however, I know nothing about the Vallejo scene, and I've never been a rider, only a driver.

Can anyone tell me if the single chick should be petrified given recent events? I'm reluctant to try it out after reading the messages.

July 29, 2005. Ped Xing at Richmond Parkway

SD wrote:

If you have trouble crossing the intersection of Richmond Parkway and Blume Drive after using the carpool in the evening, I urge you to call the City of Richmond at 510-307-8112 and speak to Steven Tam. I've had many close encounters with cars as it is very difficult to cross the street with the green light because the cars that have dropped off carpoolers head back to the freeway on Blume, make a quick stop (or forget to stop) at the red light, make a right turn onto Richmond Parkway, thus making it dangerous for pedestrians to step off the curb. In all fairness, the drivers cannot see that the light for pedestrians has turned green and they are anxious to get home. Many pedestrians jaywalk on Blume near the Chevron station because it's very dangerous to cross at the light. There have been many times where I was unable to cross at the green light because of cars driving through their red light as they make their right turn. This is a potentially dangerous situation and it would be great if pedestrians would help make this intersection safe by calling Mr. Tam. Thank you so much!

[Even more important is a written letter. Once it's in writing the legal implications are very strong.]

July 27, 2005. Assault near Beale St.

EM wrote:

On Monday July 25th around 5:30 PM, I witnessed an attack on Folsom St. between Beale St. and Main St. I'm not sure who was at fault (started the fight) but as our carpool rounded the corner from Beale St. onto Folsom, we saw the truck of the carpool that had just picked up before my driver pulled over to the side of the road and the driver of that truck beating up one of his passengers while the other passenger of the truck had already gotten out and was on the phone to - I'm assuming - the police. The driver (after he was done punching his passenger) rushed back to his black 4-seater truck. The passenger who he assaulted took down the license plate number and then got on his phone - again I'm assuming to the police. I'm not sure what provoked this altercation, but I think it would be safe for everyone to avoid this driver just in case. He's a white male with fairly tanned skin and minimal facial hair (a goatee), dirty blonde hair, about 6', 180 pounds and I would say he was in his mid to late 30's. Again, he drove a black truck that could seat people in the back. The windows were tinted. The truck was fairly dirty, and the driver didn't wear "professional" clothing, just jeans, sweatshirt, hat and construction type boots. Any information on this would be greatly appreciated. I also send out my apologies and hopes that whoever was not at fault is okay and unharmed.

July 25, 2005. Lafayette - 1st come, 1st served

KG wrote:

Normally I pick up at either Moraga or Orinda locations. As a driver when picking up at the Lafayette BART Carpool location, I have had two recent experiences that compel me to write.

1st - my wife and I were third in line behind two other cars and a gentleman walked up and got in the back seat of our car. I was caught off guard and said to him that "there are two other cars in front of us." He responded "yeah, but you already had two people in your car and now we can go." I told him "no, that would be rude to the two drivers in front who have been waiting longer than me." He said "are you sure" and I said "YES."

2nd - This morning I was first in line and a gentleman got into the car. After waiting less than five minutes he said "there is a car back there that already has two people in it (third car in line), do you mind if I go with them?" I asked "are you serious?" He then said "yes" and I responded "I think it's rude but if that is what you want to do then fine. Please get out of my car and just remember that if you ever want a ride from me you can forget it."

The problem as I see it is that passengers and drivers alike should be a lot more considerate by sticking to a first-come first-served model. After discussing this with a few other passengers and drivers they feel the same. What was especially interesting was how strong the feelings are about this subject.

I can tell you that based on these experiences that I mentioned above I will not be picking up at Lafayette.

July 25, 2005. Vallejo parking lot assault - comment

PR wrote:

I would to add that if a passenger has parked inside the parking lot, it's a good idea to walk with someone who looks as if they're going in that same direction who is also a SF/Vallejo commuter. I myself don't park my car inside the lot anymore because of the stories I heard from other commuters about break-ins. I will see what I can do (call) to have some more security around the area, especially after something as serious as an assault...

July 21, 2005. Vallejo parking lot assault

SS wrote:

On Tuesday, July 19th, around 5:45 p.m., my daughter and I were attacked at the Vallejo Park and Ride lot by three black teenagers. Please warn others to be careful.

July 20, 2005. Vallejo parking lot assault

CH wrote:

I just moved to Vallejo about 3 weeks ago. I've been using the Vallejo casual carpool in the morning and evening to travel to work in San Francisco. On Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at approximately 5:30pm, I arrived at the Curtola Park & Ride in Vallejo at Lemon Street and began to walk to the rear of the Park & Ride lot to retrieve my car. There were two Asian women walking behind me to their cars which were parked in the rear of the lot as well.

There was a parked white SUV with a baby crying in it. The baby's cry is what caused me to notice the parked SUV. When I looked up, I saw a black teenager about 5' 4" wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and black pants exiting from the SUV. Because I had arrived at my car, I looked away to open my door and clear the windshield of paper flyers. Then I began to start my car and back out of my parking spot.

As I backed out, I looked out of my passenger window and saw 3 teenage black men (the white SUV had disappeared). They began to run quickly after the two Asian women who were now attempting to get into their separately parked cars. I became afraid and attempted to get to safety. I saw one of the Asian women on the ground trying to get up. It looked like she was trying to hold on to her purse. Then I pulled over in the lot and honked at a chartered bus. The driver began to witness the event as well. I called 911 and the operator told me that the bus driver had called as well.

July 19, 2005. More on discriminating drivers

DP wrote:

I would like to second PR's comments about drivers who pick up individuals of their own race. I experienced the same instance on more then one occasion and it is hurtful and in one instance I was picked up by two african americans and they were obviously not happy about giving a ride to a caucasian man. It was downright rude and I would never treat someone the way I was so if I had my choice of the two situations I would say to those people who don't like people of certain races: Continue to pick up those of your same race because I would not want anyone to be subjected to riding with someone that doesn't like me because of my race and has no idea of who I am as a person. Discrimination is ignorance no matter what color package it comes in.

July 13, 2005. Vallejo discriminating drivers

PR wrote:

I would like to add to the Message Board that I am not pleased with some of the drivers who, instead of picking up the first person in line, seek out someone of their nationality. I've had several drivers pull up past me and scope out individuals of their same race. I enjoy casual carpooling to and from work each day but if I continue to feel leery when a driver of a different race approaches and I find myself wondering if he or she is going to pass me up, then maybe I'll just convert back to taking the bus.

I know people have a right to pick up anyone they want to, but let's have some consideration here for a person's feelings if they're "left behind" over something they have NO control over.

Thank You

July 6, 2005. Re: "driver comments"

GP wrote:

The posting from SD on 06/29/05 in response to "driver comments" about liability coverage is inaccurate. Your auto liability insurance cannot be carried from you as a driver to you as a passenger in someone else's car. Your auto insurance policy is limited to the auto(s) your policy covers and at the most, you (and your family) as pedestrians (if you have certain liability coverage).

We should respect a driver's decision if they only want to pick up 2 people and not fill their car to its capacity. Carpools will work as long as we carpool, period - no matter how few or many we carry.

According to my insurance policy, carpooling will not affect a policy unless you make a business of it, i.e., by accepting more than what would be considered gas money.

Thanks!

July 5, 2005. Emeryville activity

MM wrote:

I saw a note on the carpool locations that the Emeryville location at Powell & Commodore doesn't appear to be used. I use it daily in the mornings (both as a driver or a passenger) and wanted to let you know that several people use this location.

I've ridden as early as 7:30 and as late as 9, and have seen a mixture of both passengers and riders at all times.

One thing to note is that if there are no cars, passengers typically hop on the Emeryville-San Francisco shuttle run by one of the community HOAs. This bus picks up at the same location at the top of each hour from 6a-9a (and drops off approx. quarter till, starting at 4:45). Aside from those times, there always seems to be a line of people waiting for rides.

July 5, 2005. Emeryville activity (#2)

PL wrote:

The Emeryville marina location is still active, except that the drivers tend to stop by early. One has a better chance of getting in a car if he/she shows up before 8:45 am. Another good thing about this location is that even if there is no car by 8:45 am, one can still get to the city by buying a ticket ($4.50) for the 8:55 am chartered shuttle that picks up local Emeryville residents (at the same location) and dropping them off 101 California in the financial district. One may also board the same bus back to Emeryville in the evening from the 101 California Street location. The evening schedule is 4:15, 5:15, 6:16 and 7:10 pm.

June 29, 2005. Richmond Parkway - vandalism

CB wrote:

I have been carpooling for 7 years from Richmond Pkwy. This Park & Ride used to be clean and safe, until numerous bus lines were added. For the past year, I have noticed more broken glasses and tow trucks around the parking lot. In Jan 2005, I found one of my tires punctured with 2 nails, 1 on the side. Last April, 2 of my tires were punctured again with 4 nails. Pls be aware and check your car every time you get back in the afternoon. File a police report when something happens to your car, and hopefully it'll get someone's attention to add more security or surveillance in the area.

[Again, perhaps contact Richmond Mayor Irma Anderson 510-620-6503 to see if she can help get increased patrols/surveillance from the CHP.]

June 29, 2005. Re: "driver comments"

SD wrote:

Yes, the casual carpool is a "give-and take." I also find it annoying when people pull out their cell phones in the car as well as eating to be rude and annoying. I also find the same behavior annoying on the bus.

I have had the same problem with drivers talking on their cell phones (and they are usually the drivers weaving in and out of traffic, slamming on their brakes, basically driving reckless). Need I mention the drivers who blast their radios and the passengers are forced to listen?

As to the liability issue which is your excuse for not taking extra passengers - most passengers who use the casual car pool own cars and have their own insurance policies, which would cover them as a passenger in your car, not just their own car, so liability should not be an issue as to your refusal to take extra passengers if you have the space in your car.

Carpools will only work if the drivers pick up passengers (and have passengers to pick up) and speaking as a passenger waiting for a ride at the end of the day, it is annoying when there is a line of 20+ passengers and drivers only take the required amount of people and have room for others in their cars.

Also, keep in mind the passenger is basically held hostage in the driver's car. The driver is the person in control. If someone is eating, talking on their cell phone, etc., you do have the right to speak up. The passenger does not have the right to make demands on the driver because we are in their vehicle.

One last thing, when a passengers gets into someone's car, we have no idea if they are responsible drivers or if their tires and car are in good repair, etc. We are basically putting our safety at risk.

Overall, my experience with the casual car pool has been great. Yes, occasionally I have a ride that makes me nervous about continuing to use the carpool, but, this is occasional and even if I need to wait extra time, I will not get into a car that does not look "safe" or if the driver gives me a "feeling" of danger.

Thank you.

June 29, 2005. Thank you, carpool!

AI wrote:

I've been driving Vallejo to SF commute for the past three years. I tried the casual carpool this June 2005, picking up riders to SF in Vallejo in the morning and Beale St. to Vallejo in the afternoon. I found it to be a pleasant experience to breeze thru traffic via the carpool lane, no bridge toll fee and have never been late in my work this month. The riders I've picked up were all nice, pleasant, and courteous and never had any negative experience. I guess, I'm now a casual carpool convert!

June 29, 2005. Increase Fairfield Activity?

Anonymous wrote:

I just wanted to ask if anyone knows of a way we can get a little more activity going at the Fairfield location. As it currently stands majority of us from the Northeast (Sac/Vaca/Fairfield etc.) use the Vallejo site. I would surely love to use the new Fairfield park and ride site. It's new, has plenty of parking, and has a garage with fewer vandals. Right now it's just too slow. Hopefully this pending strike will give it a shot in the arm. I plan on trying it out in efforts to give my support and I hope those of you from the mentioned areas would do the same. Thank you.

June 24, 2005. Driver comments

DN wrote:

I've been picking up casual carpoolers for over five years now and I know there are riders that have been riders for longer than that. I think there are some basics that people have forgotten. Casual carpool is a give-and-take.

I pick up two riders in the evening, and I know that the lines are long at times coming from San Francisco. Drivers are not required to pick up more than the number of riders they need. It is not because we are rude, we have to think of the liability we have if we should, God forbid, have an accident. I drive an SUV and my vehicle seats 7. However, I cannot afford the liability if 6 passengers decide to sue me should there be an accident. So please don't get angry when the driver says, "only one" or "only two."

Please riders, remember, it's not that the drivers are rude when we refuse to take more than one or two passengers. We are being responsible.

Also, getting into a driver's car and having long extensive conversations on your cell phone in the car and eating are just a little rude unless the driver doesn't have a problem. I don't think the riders would appreciate drivers having long extensive cell phone conversations or smoking, or eating while driving. It's getting a little too casual.

I am not the self-appointed driver spokesperson, basically just thought I'd offer some suggestions.

June 22, 2005. Car stolen - Richmond Parkway

MZ wrote:

I commute from the Richmond Parkway park-and-ride to San Francisco. My truck was stolen from the Richmond Parkway lot on June 22. I filed a police report with the CHP (1-707-551-4100). I have noticed extensive broken glass in the parking lot over the past several weeks and noticed that another car was broken into yesterday (June 21) requiring tow truck service. Please be warned of the potential for loss or damage to your vehicle when using the Richmond Parkway transit parking lot.

Caltrans owns the lot and it is under CHP jurisdiction, not the Richmond Police.

[Perhaps contact Richmond Mayor Irma Anderson 510-620-6503 to see if she can help get increased patrols/surveillance from the CHP.]

June 14, 2005. Bike stolen - North Berkeley

CS wrote:

I have been commuting from North Berkeley for a month or two via casual carpool and have been VERY happy with it. I bike to North Berkeley to catch my ride, however, and yesterday my bike was stolen. One other bike was reported stolen that same day, and I have since learned that North Berkeley has more bike thefts than any other Bart station. Useful info, perhaps, for other casual carpoolers. I will be buying another bike and riding to Downtown Berkeley Bart instead, because they have an attended bike parking facility (http://www.bfbc.org/about/about.php).

Perhaps Downtown Berkeley would be a good venue for another casual carpool.

[It is difficult to start a new site. See this in FAQ.]

June 12, 2005. Del Norte: don't park in OSH

Lori wrote:

The HomeLife store where the carpool is located (near El Cerrito del Norte station) is now an OSH, and so they really don't want people parking there.

June 10, 2005. Richmond Parkway car break-in

RS wrote:

I leave my car at the Richmond Parkway parking lot every day and take casual carpool to SF. Yesterday (6/9/05) I arrived at the parking lot at 4 pm from work and found my car with a broken front driver side window. The faceplate on my car stereo was missing and the glove compartment was ransacked. I found the faceplate later under the seats. The car stereo is brand new (just two months old) and probably much harder to steal.

I also talked to another person in the parking lot whose car was broken into also that day. There's also another parking space with "fresh" broken glass but the car must have left already. This means there's at least 3 break-ins yesterday.

I tried to report the incident to the police, first with the Pinole police department, then I was referred to the Richmond police, then I was told to call the CHP. I just gave up after a while going through a very long phone menu.

I just want to warn people who use the Richmond Parkway parking lot about this situation.

June 2, 2005. Alameda site neighbor: what about us?

MR wrote:

Has anyone given any thought to the residents of Park Avenue, Encinal, Regent, etc.? For several years now we have endured a total lack of street parking in front of our homes, inconsiderate casual carpoolers who block our driveways and then head off to work, or who leave their cars parked in front of our homes for long weekends or week-long trips. If we leave our parking space for several minutes (even in the middle of the day), it is taken immediately and we have no place to park within a four-block radius of our homes.

The corner at Park Avenue and Encinal is dangerous - it is too congested and having carpoolers stop there to pick up riders is difficult. Many people use Encinal Avenue to transport their children to Alameda High; residents use that street to go to work; there are a number of businesses in that area that bring further traffic. Why not lobby the city for a park and ride lot? I understand there is one at Island Drive and Doolittle - does anyone use it?

There are times when I have seen four to six cars parked waiting for riders, while other times I see in excess of 12 people waiting for rides. I worry about the pedestrians in this area. It's just a matter of time before someone is hurt. There has to be a better way!

June 1, 2005. Reopen Beale St. under Bay Bridge

PM wrote:

I was talking with someone at San Francisco City Hall recently and he said that the closure of Beale St underpass was due to safety concerns after 9/11. He figures that this concern has passed and the street should be reopened. It would make it way more convenient for casual carpoolers to get to the dedicated HOV onramp at Stirling.

He said he has asked the Highway Patrol a few times without any luck. He said it was too bad that the casual carpoolers are not more organised so that they could also put pressure on the Highway Patrol.

[Does anyone know the right contact information for the Highway Patrol?]

May 6, 2005. Alameda - repaint curb?

SK sent this email to Alameda City officials:

Dear City Manager:

I am a casual carpool driver. Every morning, I pick up casual carpoolers at the intersection of Encinal and Park Ave, where the San Francisco Bound AC-transit bus stop is located. The sidewalk has a very long red curb, which prohibits vehicles from stopping and picking up carpoolers away from the bus stop. This morning, my carpoolers told me that someone was ticketed for picking up casual carpoolers. I understand that vehicles shall not be allowed to interrupt bus loading and operation. However, I don't agree with giving tickets to vehicles stopping away from the bus stop, where the vehicles do not interrupt bus operations.

Can the City remove a portion of the red paint on curb between the ADA ramp at the crosswalk and the ramp termini, and replace it with a white paint for car-poolers to use as a legal passenger-loading zone? This mentioned area is located away from the bus loading and operating area. It will not block the bus from turning in and out from the bus stop. If there is concern about the lane width, you could simply re-stripe the ramp to accommodate one travel lane and one parking lane.

Hopefully, I hear from you soon.

Thanks for your help.

[Alameda Mayor Beverly Johnson responded, saying that "at first glance," she agreed. She wondered whether the citations were issued by Alameda police officers.]

April 22, 2005. Park and Hampel sign needed

Edward wrote:

There is no Casual Carpool sign at Park and Hampel. Quite often I see people wandering between the bus stop on Park, and Hampel (cars actually stop on Hampel). I'm afraid that if there isn't a sign, people who would have joined CC will give up.

April 3, 2005. Alameda spot around corner?

AL wrote:

The reason why the corner of Encinal and Park is a red zone is because it is a bus stop (and all bus stops are red zones) and the space right after the bus stop is a narrow lane which only one car will fit through so any cars stopped there block traffic.

From what I've heard from other commuters (don't know if it is true) -- there were some Alameda police officers having coffee across the street when they saw cars backing up into the street and causing a hazard for oncoming traffic. When they tried to start ticketing, they were informed that this was a casual car pool location. They were supportive of the carpool and suggested pickups around the corner past the red zone. They were understanding and even put up a handmade side at the bus stop that says: "Casual Carpool around the corner on Park Ave". The problem is that there because there is no formal sign at the "potentially new" pickup location round the corner, people are ignoring it.

March 24, 2005. Alameda tickets

PH wrote:

I noticed a comment about getting a spot in oakland legalized (or better accomodated) for Casual Carpooling. Do you have any further suggestions for getting Park Ave and Encinal in Alameda straightened out? I have contacted the Mayor's office and expect a return phone call from them. I have also requested from the Alameda Police an explanation why the corner of Encinal and Park Ave. is a red zone. Today (3/24) they are ticketing again and I want to make Alameda a commuter friendly city. It makes no sense why we wouldn't want casual carpooling to exist and thrive in our community.

[Others may want to ask Alameda Mayor Beverly Johnson (510 747 4701) for help.]

March 22, 2005. Lafayette parking query

ML wrote:

I drive to work every morning from Martinez to the city. I used to stop by the Lafayette BART station to pick up carpoolers but now often wait at least 20 minutes since the parking validation program began (pick up around 6:20 a.m.) at Lafayette. Does anyone know of anywhere better to pick up carpoolers without having to wait 20 minutes in the surrounding area or at least on my way to work?

March 17, 2005. Grand & Perkins sorted out

RC wrote:

Things at Grand and Perkins seem to have sorted themselves out. Cars line up Perkins street going in the direction of Grand. If any drivers are reading this, it would be advisable to arrive from Perkins Street rather than from Grand, as otherwise you'll have to turn your car around on a narrow street. Hopefully the project at the Shell station won't take long.

March 16, 2005. Grand & Perkins alternative?

RC wrote:

Seems more motorists are beginning to line up at Grand/Perkins again, but as mentioned in a previous posting, I can see how the situation can lead to some problems. One of the leading problems is that motorists are now lining up squarely into the bus stop, which may lead to problems with busses, not to mention big fines. One solution may be to start the passenger line farther up Perkins. That may alleviate some of the problem, as cars will have more room to line up on a relatively quiet street rather than down Grand. Other alternatives may be to find another temporary pick-up zone…the Ahn’s Burgers lot at Grand/Bellevue seems pretty quiet at that hour. But I have no idea how to organize such a shift, unless a lot of people happen to be reading this. [Perhaps check with others in line for a "consensus," then maybe a sign, and/or printed flyers, plus word of mouth? -- Dan]

March 15, 2005. Grand & Perkins updates

JA wrote:

I pick up at Grand & Perkins between 6 and 6:30am. I noticed cars backing into the lip of the exit driveway on Perkins at the fenced off gas station. There is only room for two cars here, and then the others tend to park whereever they can on either side. The linear sense of order is hard to figure out and I'm thinking it will probably lead to some level of tension between drivers.

This situation could also lead to congestion and hazards around the corner.

In the early morning hours I think the station side of Grand starting just before the bus zone is pretty empty. This would allow cars to sit in line and wait to pick up riders. Leave your headlights or hazards on to draw attention. I'm not sure it will work but it's worth a try.

BM wrote:

This morning there were far more riders than cars when I arrived. I hope that this construction doesn't snarl this spot long-term for folks.

while RC wrote:

This morning commuters seemed to adapt well to the construction at the Shell station, which has closed the usual pick up spot. Riders lined up along the sidewalk going up Perkins, and cars picked up right on Perkins.

March 14, 2005. Construction snarl: Oakland - Grand & Perkins

BM wrote:

FYI for the carpool community, this morning the carpool location at Oakland -- Grand & Perkins was disrupted with construction at the Shell station that has essentially eliminated access to the station and thus cars are unable to line up for carpool riders. All access to the station was blocked to vehicular traffic.

I'm not sure if this is temporary or will be ongoing for a while... but it will be a big problem for this stop if there's nowhere for cars to line up.

February 3, 2005. Parking at BART

JH wrote (in response to "BART parking for $5/day," January 7, 2005):

Rather than $5 a day, isn't it cheaper to just use a ticket, enter, validate parking, and exit to the casual carpool? Am I missing something?

January 30, 2005. New site for carpool "blogging"

NC wrote:

I wanted to see if you had any stories from either your own, or your community's experience, that would be a good read. I am pulling together a blog of entertaining tales from both a rider and a driver perspective, as well as providing 'Backseat Comment Cards' to help give feedback in a non-confrontational way. http://carpool-tunnel-syndrome.com

January 28, 2005. Alameda site in trouble

CO wrote:

On Friday, January 28, 2005, I arrived at the pick-up location in Alameda at Encinal and Park to see a police officer telling cars they can not stop here any longer. I called the Alameda Police to try and find out why and was told it is a red zone and it is blocking traffic. I asked if they could tell me who was complaining to see if we can come up with an alternative solution and I was told that "curbs are painted red for a reason". If anyone else wants to call and try to help figure out a better place to have a pick-up spot you can call the non-emergency police of Alameda at (510) 337-8340. (Or ask Alameda Mayor Beverly Johnson 510 747 4701 for help -- ed.)

January 20, 2005. Lakeshore/Grand bad driver

KH wrote:

To start off, I would like to say that I think Casual Carpool is great! I take it almost every day (from Lakeshore/Grand 580 pickup) and 9/10 times have a great experience. In fact, just yesterday, my driver was so kind that he dropped off all three riders (he took an extra one because there were no cars) at separate locations, insisting that it was no problem to take me a block from my office.

Today, however, I was picked up by an elderly african-american man driving a brand new ford taurus (no plates yet) that is very dark green -- almost black. The car has a disabled tag on the rearview mirror. The driver was very friendly and nice but was a terrible driver. Pulling out of the lot, he drove out into oncoming traffic without looking, causing a car to slam on the brakes and honk. Then, a block later, he cut into another lane without signaling, causing another driver to honk and brake suddenly. Needless to say, I was worried to get on the freeway, especially when his phone rings and he answers it and talks ALL THE WAY to the drop off in SF. He could not focus and was driving about 15-20mph slower than everyone else on the bridge and freeway. I was very relieved to get out of the car and would encourage others not to ride with this man. I feel bad about this because he really was very nice, I simply think he was too elderly and did not have quick enough reflexes to be a safe driver.

January 11, 2005. Fairfield site moving Jan 31

EC wrote:

The Fairfield site is moving down the block. Effective January 31, pickup and dropoff will take place at the corner of Cadenasso Drive and Magellan Road. This new location, adjacent to the new parking lot at the Fairfield Transportation Center, takes advantage of three sheltered wait areas built for casual carpool.

January 7, 2005. BART parking for $5/day

JM wrote:

Many Lafayette carpoolers are parking on the street (it's $5) quite a ways away from the carpool site. I've found that you can go to BART's website and pay for "long term" parking and pay for a week (or a day) ($5/day). Just print the permit, and place it in your car's window, and you don't need to validate at the station. And you can park much much closer...

This works at most BART stations actually, not just Lafayette.

December 29, 2004. Richmond Parkway - more parking some day?

Parris Rollins wrote to Richmond Mayor Irma Anderson:

Hello, I am a fellow commuter who uses the park & ride lot at the Richmond Parkway. By 7am the lot is usually full and this makes it difficult to find street parking when the police are issuing tickets.

For the process to work, the lot should be increased, my wishful thinking, but I know that this takes time, money and planning. Please respond back if you have any solutions to this matter. You can also check the Rideshare.org website and read about all the carpool news and stories pertaining to this matter.

I appreciate your time in reading this message. Thanks

Here is her response:

Hi Parris -

I just wanted to let you know that I am very pleased to see people taking advantage of our extensive public transportation system. I am working with our local and regional transportation planning commissions to earmark more funds for expanding parking spaces/structures. It is a time consuming and expensive task, but letters like your give elected officials like me the leverage to prioritize this project.

Feel free to contact me with any additional concerns or questions that you may have.

Sincerely,
Irma

Irma L. Anderson, Mayor
City of Richmond
PO Box 4046
Richmond, CA 94804
(p) 510-620-6503
(f) 510-412-2070
Irma Anderson

December 22, 2004. Please drivers, pick up every day!

BL wrote:

Apparently, some of you only pick up casual carpool passengers when you've heard reports of bad traffic on the Bay Bridge. In order for the system to work well, there needs to be a consistent supply of both drivers and riders.

Please, if you drive every day, do your part and pick up riders every day! Even when the traffic's lighter, you'll still bypass the toll plaza lines and bridge metering lights, and you'll save three dollars a day.

Thanks!

December 22, 2004. Park Blvd - more riders at Hampel than Hollywood

BL wrote:

If you're a driver who's been frustrated waiting for passengers at Hollywood and Park Blvd., try checking out Hampel Street at Park instead. More than once recently, I've been picked up on Hampel by drivers who said there was a long line of cars on Hollywood, while Hampel had a long line of riders.

December 16, 2004. Oakland Park and Hampel - more tickets

Alex Pedersen, Policy Analyst / Legislative Aide for City Council President Ignacio De La Fuente, wrote:

Hello, Carpoolers!

We are still hopeful the new No Parking signs (10 a.m. to noon) will discourage all-day parkers, so that the casual carpoolers can freely use the west side of Hampel Street (at Park Blvd). The City had considered a No Parking sign from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m., but our Traffic Engineers argued that the 10 a.m. to noon should work. Unfortunately, there was a small car parked there illegally on 12/15 which messed up our plans, but the City ticketed that car. Let's give the "10-noon" signs a chance for the next few weeks. We'll re-evaluate this at the start of the new year.

Thanks,
Alex

December 10, 2004. Oakland Park and Hampel changes

Alex Pedersen, Policy Analyst / Legislative Aide for City Council President Ignacio De La Fuente, wrote:

As promised, the City has taken action to make it a bit easier for casual carpoolers to use the area at Park Blvd and Hampel Street while trying to maximize safety for drivers and pedestrians. On Hampel Street, we removed some of the red line from the curb while installing signs that discourage all-day parkers. The signs read "No Parking 10:00 a.m. to Noon" along the border of the vacant lot. Yes, the time seems odd, but our Traffic Engineers decided that is the best way to allow casual carpool cars in the mornings, but to discourage all-day parkers.

Please continue to respect the homeowners on Hampel - if the carpooling cars back-up too far (blocking active driveways), please consider a different casual carpool site for that day or a time that is less busy.

I know there are many ideas on how to approach this issue (move the casual carpool site, move the bus stop, etc.) but this is what we're going to try.

Those of you who received tickets on Park Blvd (@ Hampel) for stopping in what may or may not have been a bus zone (on Park Blvd), we encourage you to call the Alameda County Sheriff's Department to appeal: 510-268-7901.

Thank you for taking the time to contact Ignacio.

Alex Pedersen
510-238-6126

December 6, 2004. Contesting Glenview citations?

R.G. wrote:

I am interested in hearing from anyone who has TRIED to contest their citations.

I received a ticket on Nov. 17 even though I was NOT in the red zone marking the AC Transit bus zone.

December 6, 2004. Alameda query

Renee R. wrote:

As a confirmed carpooler at the Park Blvd. sites in Oakland thinking of moving to Alameda, I'm researching information about carpooling to SF.

I'm used to getting a ride easily at one of the Park Blvd. locations in Oakland - can someone who uses the Alameda Encinal and Park queue give me an idea of how long it generally takes to catch a ride at about 8 or 8:15 in the morning? Steady stream of cars and steady group of people needing a ride? Thanks!

Also - noted on the Alameda city website (http://www.inyourcity.net/carpool-0603.php) that the car pool location is listed at Island Drive and Doolittle Drive - is it a more reliable location for a ride?

That site also listed a carpool coming from Beale in SF (between Howard and Folsom) - I walk by this location after work every night to get AC Transit home, and haven't seen cars lined up going to Alameda - anyone with information about car pool heading east?

Many thanks in advance! -- Renee R.

November 24, 2004. Richmond Parkway parking tickets

M.A. wrote:

I have been parking on the AutoMall street there in Hilltop for 4 years. By 7:30 AM there is no parking left at the Richmond Park and ride. Last night when I got back to my car, there was a $30.00 ticket on my windshield. I noticed that all the other cars were also ticketed. Where are we supposed to park? There is no place left. Many of us will not be able to carpool if it is like this.

November 19, 2004. More Park and Hampel news

Alex Pedersen, Policy Analyst / Legislative Aide for City Council President Ignacio De La Fuente, wrote:

Dear Glenfriends,

We have been closely following the traffic issue at Hampel and Park Blvd and Council President De La Fuente wants to help to develop a solution that balances the concerns of carpoolers while trying to maximize safety at the intersection.

To work on a solution, I met this afternoon with officials from the Mayor's Office, Traffic Engineering (City), and Parking Enforcement (City) as well as a representative from the Glenview Neighborhood Association (GNA). I also spoke separately to Greg Harper from AC Transit.

It is my understanding that the Alameda County Sheriff's Department DOES issue tickets for those stopping their cars in an AC Transit bus zone (Park Blvd for example). Therefore, the City will do its part to make it easier to use Hampel (where the carpoolers had been wrapping-around from Park). This will probably involve adjusting the red line(s) and improving signage on Hampel so that more carpoolers can fit on Hampel while discouraging day-long parking in that small section.

We have considered all of the other thoughtful and creative suggestions based on phone calls and e-mails we have received recently and we think this is the quickest and most balanced approach. Look for improvements to the situation in a week or so.

Please spread the word to any carpoolers who you might know. Thank you for keeping us informed about this issue.

Alex Pedersen
510-238-6126

November 19, 2004. Park and Hampel

Mary R. adds:

They're going to put up signs on Hampel saying No Parking 10-3, to discourage all-day parkers and thus cut down on double-parking, as there will be more room for casual carpoolers. The idea is to make more room on Hampel, and discourage use of Park Blvd. An AC Transit rep was at the meeting, so presumably there shouldn't be any more ticketing. We hope. It's possible Alex will get complaints from Hampel residents, and if so, they'll try another solution.

Let's hope this works!

November 19, 2004. Park and Hampel news

From Mary R.:

I spoke with Alex (Peterson?) at Councilmember De La Fuente's office, and apparently his people are meeting with the Glen View Neighborhood Assn today about the casual carpool situation. I told him about the two suggested locations, and he said he'd bring those up. He's going to contact me with the results of the meeting, and I"ll email you with those.

I took carpool today -- didn't see the police or sheriff anywhere, and there were a couple cars waiting, so maybe they have eased off. No gravitation to any other spot yet. The church lot would be great, but I think the Council would need to approach them officially to get them on board. Liability issues and all.

Fingers crossed...

November 18, 2004. Alt locs for Park and Hampel

Mary R. provided this update:

I called the church to see about using their parking lot, as of course we should get their permission first. The woman had never heard of casual carpool (!) and asked me to write it up for the elders of the church to approve. Wednesday mornings won't work for them as there are things going on at the church. Also, I imagine that liability issues might prompt them to say no.

So maybe the other spot mentioned below is better. If that doesn't work out, I'll write up a letter to the elders. Would be nice to get de la Fuentes office involved. I've got a call in to see about making a site official.

Mary R. (415-487-1950 day)

November 17, 2004. Rockridge auto break-in

Greta L wrote:

I just wanted to report -- and warn other carpoolers -- that my car was broken into on Hudson street near the Rockridge carpool spot. The passenger window was smashed and my cd player was stolen. This happened on Monday November 15th, sometime between 9:20am and 6:40pm. If anyone saw anything or has information they can call me at 650-468-4859. And please, everyone, make sure to lock your cars and don't leave anything valuable in them.

Thanks,
Greta