Archives: FAQs

What is the City’s strategy for applying AB 43?

The City strives to be proactive in improving traffic safety and is conducting a study to review traffic speeds in San Rafael as part of the next E&TS update in 2025. The project is being conducted in two phases. Starting with the downtown area, Phase 1 of the study will identify roadway corridors that can … Continued

How do cities determine what areas need speed reductions?

An Engineering and Traffic Survey (E&TS) is an engineering study used for setting roadway speed limits based on prevailing speeds (or 85th percentile speed, defined as the speed at or below which 85% of vehicles travel) and review of roadway traffic conditions and history.

What is Assembly Bill No. 43 (Traffic Safety)?

California Assembly Bill No. 43 (AB 43) provides cities more flexibility when establishing speed limits in business and residence districts. AB 43 allows for reduction of speed limits after considering safety, land uses, and concentration levels of bicyclists and pedestrians, especially those from vulnerable groups such as children, seniors, persons with disabilities, and individuals experiencing homelessness. … Continued

People who Have Chronic Heart Conditions

Potential Effects from Smoke:  In general, exposure to wildfire smoke has been shown to increase cardiovascular-related health issues such as: Temporary chest pain Heart attacks Cardiac arrhythmia Heart failure Stroke​ Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) What you can do:  Limit your exposure to smoke by staying indoors and create a Clean Indoor Air space Wear an … Continued

People who Have Chronic Lung Conditions

Potential Effects from Smoke:  Shortness of breath Wheezing Difficulty taking a full breath Chest Heaviness Lightheadedness Dizziness If you develop a persistent cough or difficult or painful breathing, consider calling your care provider. What you can do: Follow your health care provider’s advice and follow your management plan if you have one. Limit your exposure … Continued

People Who Have Asthma

Potential Effects from Smoke: More frequent and more severe asthma attacks Difficulty breathing Coughing or Wheezing What You Can Do: Create an asthma action plan with your healthcare provider in Spring, before the peak of wildfire season Discuss prevention and treatment options for smoke events that are customized to you Carry an emergency inhaler Reduce … Continued

Children

Potential Effects from Smoke: Risk of damage to lungs, which are still developing. Kids breathe faster, tend to be more active outdoors (running, playing, being kids) and, proportionally, take in more air for their body size than adults do. What You Can Do: Reduce the amount of time you’re breathing unhealthy air by going to or … Continued

Pregnant People

Potential Effects from Smoke:  Pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are worsened with smoke, making it harder to stay healthy while pregnant. What You Can Do: ​ Reduce the amount of time you’re breathing unhealthy air by going to or creating a Clean Indoor Air space. ​​ Stay inside as much as possible. Keep windows and doors closed and turn on … Continued

Seniors (65+)

Potential Effects from Smoke:  Increased susceptibility to bacterial or viral infections because of compromised immune system Trouble breathing (e.g., coughing, wheezing, chest tightness) What you can do: Consider creating a plan with your doctor if you have any medical conditions that could be made worse due to smoke exposure. Reduce the amount of time you’re … Continued

How can I provide feedback on the pilot project?

Following the initial implementation of the pilot project, an online input form will be made available on this website (around Spring 2026) to intake community comments and feedback. More information will be made available on this.

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