Keep The Bridge

Author: Najari Smith – Executive Director

Keep the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge Path Open 24/7: A Call for Transportation Equity and Environmental Justice

At RICH CITY RIDES, we believe that everyone deserves safe, equitable, and sustainable transportation options. The Richmond-San Rafael Bridge multi-use path is not just a bridge—it’s a lifeline that connects communities, reduces car dependency, and promotes environmental justice. That’s why we are calling for it to remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Why This Matters

Without this bike and pedestrian path, people who rely on walking or biking to cross the bridge would be forced to depend on limited bus services or own a functional car. For many residents of Richmond, these simply aren’t viable options. Closing or limiting the path would severely restrict mobility for those who need it most, widening the gap of transportation inequity.

Transportation Equity is Non-Negotiable

Many Richmond residents cannot afford cars and have limited access to reliable public transit. The bridge path offers an affordable, sustainable connection between counties, enabling people to commute to work, access essential services, and engage in recreational activities. Closing the path would disproportionately impact low-income communities and communities of color, who already face systemic barriers to mobility.

Empowering Mobility with Our e-Bike Lending Library

At RICH CITY RIDES, we are actively working to bridge the transportation gap through our e-Bike Lending Library. This program allows community members to borrow electric bikes, offering a reliable, eco-friendly way to travel without the financial burden of car ownership.

The Richmond-San Rafael Bridge path plays a crucial role in this initiative by providing a safe and accessible route for e-bike users to commute, connect with neighboring communities, and access opportunities on both sides of the bridge. Limiting or closing the path would significantly impact the effectiveness of our e-Bike Lending Library, reducing access to jobs, healthcare, and education.

With the bridge path open 24/7, our community members can fully utilize e-bikes for everyday needs, empowering them with freedom of movement and supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.

We Must Reduce Car Dependency

We are in a climate crisis. Reducing car dependency is no longer just an option—it’s a necessity. Active transportation—walking and biking—helps decrease emissions and reduces traffic congestion. By keeping the bridge path open, we can promote healthier, more sustainable communities while taking concrete steps to combat climate change.

Environmental Justice for Richmond

Richmond already suffers from some of the worst air quality in California due to vehicle emissions and industrial pollution. Limiting the bridge path would lead to more cars on the road, worsening air quality and disproportionately impacting vulnerable communities. Environmental justice means prioritizing policies that reduce pollution and protect the health of our community.

Health and Safety Come First

The Richmond-San Rafael Bridge path provides a safe space for people to walk, bike, and commute. It encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and enhances mental well-being. If the path is closed or restricted, cyclists and pedestrians will be forced to navigate unsafe roadways, putting lives at risk. We cannot allow this to happen.

Take Action Today

We need your support to keep the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge path open 24/7. Here’s how you can help:

• Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media for the latest updates.
• Get Involved: Join Bike East Bay’s “Bridging the Bay” campaign and other advocacy efforts.
• Make Your Voice Heard: Contact your elected officials and the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) to express your support for 24/7 access.

Together, We Can Keep the Path Open

The Richmond-San Rafael Bridge path represents more than just a bike lane—it symbolizes equity, environmental justice, and a commitment to sustainable communities. By ensuring 24/7 access, we support innovative programs like our e-Bike Lending Library, empowering our community with sustainable and affordable transportation options.

Let’s not roll back progress. Join us in advocating for a Bay Area that prioritizes health, safety, and accessibility for all.

For more information on how you can get involved, visit our website or reach out to us at RICH CITY RIDES. Let’s ride together for equity and justice!