Upcoming forum to focus on traffic problems in Sonoma Valley

Sonoma Valley residents say it’s becoming increasingly dangerous to pull out of their driveways and onto West Agua Caliente Road because of speeding and traffic congestion.

Susan Gorin, chairwoman of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors, said she also has heard complaints from several residents about parked cars blocking their view of the roadway.

“The cars are pretty densely packed,” she said, adding that it is difficult for drivers “to enter the road in a safe manner.”

Gorin will host a neighborhood meeting at 6 p.m. Monday at the Hanna Boys Center auditorium to discuss the traffic problems. CHP and county transportation officials are expected to attend.

The solution may not be as easy as prohibiting parking on West Agua Caliente Road, Gorin said. Residents already complain about a lack of parking in The Springs, and they are expected to lose dozens of spaces with the Highway 12 overhaul currently underway.

“I’m not sure what the solution is just yet,” Gorin said. “But we want to proceed with care.”