Third Street Traffic Circle Sparks Sonoma Neighborhood Debate

SONOMA VALLEY, CA — What looks like a few circles of paint and plastic posts is becoming one of Sonoma's more closely watched transportation projects.

A temporary traffic circle has appeared at the intersection of Third Street West and Perkins Street as Sonoma officials move forward with the Third Street West Bike Boulevard Project.

The project has prompted enough questions from residents — why the changes are needed and how they will affect drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians — that city officials sent out a question-and-answer message today.

In response to public feedback, the city published an extensive Q&A page explaining the project, the goals, and why officials chose the neighborhood street as a key east-west bicycle connection.

City officials in the message said Third Street West carries lower traffic volumes than nearby transportation arteries such as Fifth Street West and Broadway, making it a safer corridor for cyclists while still allowing vehicle access.

The project is designed to connect existing bicycle routes, including the Fryer Creek Multi-Use Trail and the Sonoma Bike Path, without forcing riders onto busier roads.

The temporary traffic circle at Perkins Street serves as a real-world demonstration before the $1.61 million project begins later this year.

According to the city, the bike boulevard will not stop vehicles from using Third Street West. Instead, "traffic-calming measures" there are intended to reduce speeds and make the street more comfortable for people walking and riding bicycles.

The city says the bicycle boulevard supports broader goals of improving safety, expanding transportation options, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and encouraging residents to make more trips without a car.

Officials argue the project fills a long-standing gap in Sonoma's bicycle network by creating a calmer connection between existing trails and destinations, including the Sonoma Plaza.