Here’s What We’ve Learned So Far

Hello Fair Oaks Community!

I’m Squeaky Wheel, a local advocate for improved neighborhood safety. I’ve been reaching out to the city for the last year hoping to make positive changes on our community roads.

Calling 311: I’ve been successful getting shrubs cut back from bike lanes, but not ivy.

Contacting our District 3 representative, Rich Desmond RichDesmond@saccounty.gov : I’ve gotten large pot holes in biking areas filled in. I did have to send photos of each pot hole with an approximate measurement and a street address of where the pothole was located.

Attending a Fair Oaks Community Planning Advisory Council Meeting: I learned how one person’s idea of an improved community doesn’t always match up with their neighbor’s. Collaboration is key. Approaching the city as group with a plan is better than approaching the city as an individual. I also got the emails of our DOT Traffic Team: Lu Li - lil@saccounty.gov and Sonia Hernandez -hernandezs@saccounty.gov. They were helpful in explaining road rules and limitations. My discussions with them may have lead to a speed bump on a road by my home, but I was requesting a safe pedestrian walkway.

Reaching out to America Walks: Mike McGinn was exceptionally helpful explaining what can be done in a community and its limitations. He made me aware of the Safe Routes to School movement and the importance of doing a Walk Audit. I was also made aware of AARP’s Walking College where they educate citizens about state rules and guide them through the process of making positive pedestrian change in their communities. AARP is taking applications for this program in February of 2024 if you too are interested.