Sound wall going tall

"I feel bad for the other businesses. I wish they got the same treatment I did," Super 8 Manager Jon Govind.

The proposed sound wall fueled months of contention between residents who want to quiet freeway noise and businesses that like their signs' visibility.

There was some initial disappointment from residents who wanted the whole wall to be 16 feet tall. However, with the council siding with residents on the about 90 percent of the wall, the decision was seen as a victory.

"Overall I'm happy, but I'm upset with [the area south of Cypress]. They've favored business over the rest of the neighborhood," said Jennifer Kardos, who spoke on behalf of the North Shoreview Neighborhood Association.

Other businesses such as ABC Limousine, Wingate Inn and the Avalon Motel weren't as lucky. The wall will block signs on the business and limit their exposure to motorists.

"It directly affects their economic vitality. If you can't be seen, drivers go on to the next city," said John Markley, an attorney representing 20 business.

The city agreed to do everything in its power to help the business get noticed, including asking Caltrans to place freeway signs alerting drivers of nearby businesses. It also said it would take another look at its sign ordinance to help benefit those businesses.

Caltrans is building the walls on both sides of Highway 101 as it adds auxiliary lanes from Third Avenue to Millbrae Avenue.

The new lanes aim to speed traffic flow by allowing local traffic to travel from one on-ramp to the next exit without having to merge.

In other business

· The city will scale back on its library design to save money on rising construction costs.

During a study session last night, the City Council heard from City Librarian K.G. Ouye, who said certain aesthetic changes would have to be made to save money. Stone used on the outside of the building will be thinner and glued on instead of bolted on.

The changes are preferred over modifying the building design, which could negate a state grant paying for part of the library.

The library may also be lightly furnished when it opens and more items could be added as more money is raised, said Ouye.

In a separate matter, the council approved bid contracts to start phase two of construction. Contractors are expected to start pouring concrete in October.

· The council passed an entertainment ordinance limiting the number of times police will respond to reports of a large party before fining the resident or business owner. People now have two chances before getting a bill for the police visit.

Dana Yates can be reached by e-mail: dana@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 106. What do you think of this story? Send a letter to the editor: letters@smdailyjournal.com