2016 Election: Kyle Heiskala on Issues that Matter to BikeSD Supporters in District 1

Our board sent questionaires to candidates running for city council and we will be posting their responses here. Kyle Heiskala is running to replace termed out Councilmember Sherri Lightner who currently represents District 1.

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Kyle Heiskala. Photo via Heiskala’s website

1) How do you envision the growth of cycling in San Diego – be it for transportation, recreation, or otherwise?

I envision the growth of cycling as a form of transportation for commuting and everyday small trips in addition to recreation. Cycling is a community builder because going through your neighborhood on a bike is a group activity that allows for a more direct interaction with your friends, neighbors and local businesses. We need more protected bike lanes so that the majority of people that do not currently feel comfortable riding a bike can start to feel safe enough to make a trip with their family to the grocery store or the park. I have demonstrated multi-million dollar bike projects that I implemented at UCSD can make cycling an option for more people.

2) What steps must be taken to ensure the success of San Diego’s “Vision Zero” goals?

Resources need to be allocated to the Vision Zero Task Force. The City’s Bicycle Master Plan and Strategic Implementation Plan need to be prioritized and funded. Plans aren’t enough. We need projects in the ground now! Enforcement and improved bike facilities need to be coordinated in order to be successful. There are certain policies that should be reevaluated, like the way that speed limits are increased, and the Level of Service as a method of preventing the narrowing of car lanes and parking reductions. So much can be done to ensure that you can travel from your home to any destination on foot or by bike without fear of getting hit by a car. Educational campaigns would also be key to Vision Zero being a success. The top most dangerous corridors would clearly be prioritized first.

3) Given the myriad of competing interests in D1 neighborhoods, how will you handle individuals and groups, alike, whose interests and actions run counter to the City’s transportation and street design goals as laid out in the Climate Action Plan, and Vision Zero initiative?

At the end of the day, I would take everyone’s concerns and interests into consideration but I believe that with a little out of the box thinking, there is a creative solution that could address the concerns that counter the City’s goals. I would always uphold the goals of the Climate Action Plan. For example, if a group of businesses in La Jolla opposed a bike plan due to the removal of parking. I would work to implement demand responsive parking systems, find new, more efficient parking configurations that would allow for new bike facilities. (protected lanes!).

4) Multiple studies have shown that increased bicycle accessibility, is good for local businesses – and that this even holds true when on-street parking is reduced. How can the information gap between advocates and businesses be bridged to advance our common interests of safe, thriving neighborhoods? Further, at which point do you say to those who refuse to engage as responsible and reasonable partners in the community’s progress, that the cycle of arguments must end so we may act for the common good?

I have a dream, that with years of hard work to improve our mobility options that owning a car in order to get around San Diego wouldn’t be a necessity. I have always worked towards this vision of the future and I understand all the components that are needed in order to make it work. I would work with those in District 1 that don’t share my vision and help gain mutual understanding. I am dedicated to this cause and through my passion I want others to share in my vision for San Diego. It will require changes, but in the end it would lead to a better quality of life for everyone.

5) What (if any) plans and decisions, with respect to increasing cycling accessibility, have been made in the past by government agencies and elected officials that you disagree with? Did you make public that disagreement? And do you see an opportunity, if elected, to reverse it?

I have expressed disappointment in the ongoing failures of SANDAG to properly implement bicycle projects. I have stated my opinions on this publicly and I am constantly working on getting better regional bike planning to be improved. If elected, I would be very eager to serve on the SANDAG Board or at a minimum work directly with SANDAG to get the best outcomes possible. The Coastal Rail Trail is an excellent example of this!

6) Will you support the implementation of the 2011 San  Diego Bicycle Master Plan Update, including    budgetary requirements for its completion and success?

Yes, absolutely. It would be a priority of mine. For decades, the San Diego region has invested heavily in freeway infrastructure. It is time to heavily invest in alternatives to car travel, like bicycle facilities. As former appointed member of the City’s Bicycle Advisory Committee, I helped chair a subcommittee to create a Strategic Implementation Plan for the Bike Master Plan. I volunteered in the position Saturday mornings! If that isn’t dedication, I don’t know what is!

7) If you have one, share a favorite cycling memory – and let us know how it shapes your desire to see safe streets in San Diego for all residents, across generations?

The first time I biked to Ocean Beach along the San Diego River, I saw the cars speed by on the freeway. I was able to appreciate the birds and the river and the sunset while I slowly worked my way towards the ocean. I could feel the wind on my face and I experienced my environment as opposed to everyone speeding along not even knowing what they were missing. I want everyone to be able to slow down and enjoy the nature along a bike path. Everyone would be happier!

8) Finally – If elected, will you commit to meeting with BikeSD representatives on a regular basis to continue the dialog around improving all D1 neighborhoods, and making San Diego the world’s greatest city for cycling?

Absolutely!