Karen Colón Hayes

Q1: How do you get around and what has your experience been?

I’ve been trying to rely less on my car, though it remains my main mode of transportation. Since getting a new bike last year, I make a point to ride at least once a week—the most recent ride was to the Free Hernan Rally. Whenever possible, especially when heading into the city, I prefer using public transit. My daughter has mobility challenges, and none of my three girls own cars; they all primarily depend on public transportation to get around. Traveling with my daughter really highlights the obstacles she faces—uneven sidewalks are tough for her cane, and she often points out how snowplows block sidewalk ramps. My own biking experiences have been mixed; I had forgotten just how intimidating city streets can be! Although I’m gaining confidence, drivers still tend to come closer to me than I’m comfortable with.

Q2: What street or intersection would you most like to see improved for safety?

I made an effort to attend as many meetings as possible to broaden my understanding. I participate in Malden Safe Streets meetings and also joined the recent Malden is Moving gathering. A common concern raised by both groups is safety, particularly for young people using bikes and scooters. I believe we can launch a campaign in collaboration with organizations already working to improve road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, scooter riders, and all other commuters. We can go to schools, hold public meetings - possibly at the bike kitchen- any place we think would get the most coverage.

Q3: How would you make Malden’s public transit more accessible?

We need to do a better job at making Malden into a community where walking, biking, and using public transit are not only convenient but also safe and attractive options for residents. We have been getting better at prioritizing complete streets policies, investing in infrastructure, and fostering a culture that values sustainable transportation but we have to find a way to collaborate with all groups to try and find a common ground (without giving up major values and priorities) so we can move forward with less obstacles.

Obviously, continue to work with our transportation planner on a comprehensive network of protected bike lanes that connect key neighborhoods, commercial areas, schools, and transit hubs. These actions directly support Malden’s sustainability and green energy goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from single-occupancy vehicles, which are a major contributor to the city’s carbon footprint. I try to attend the local bike rides hosted by Bike to the Sea and other groups- I think this is a great way to encourage new riders to come out where they feel safe in numbers. I would like to see more of this, and include youth bike rides.

Q4: How would you reduce drop-off and pick-up traffic at schools?

When my kids began school here in Malden, we were lucky enough to have school buses to take them to school- it was great! Many of us were so disappointed when this was taken away due to budget constraints. We formed groups that met with the superintendent trying to raise funds for buses and we also partnered for commuting together. I would be into exploring this further even though my kids have grown - I would be happy to take part in a city wide carpool strategy.

Q5: Would you support connecting Malden to neighboring cities via bike/pedestrian paths?

Bike to the Sea is the go to organization to increase and improve the Northern Strand. The connections from Everett to Malden through Stoneham into Revere is an amazing accomplishment. I would meet with the Board of Bike to the Sea to learn of ways that I could help from my position as Councillor At Large. I support my fellow Councillors, Winslow and O’Malley on their hard work over the years and will continue to offer my support and help.

Q6: What improvements would you make to support local businesses while keeping streets safe?

Designing retail spaces to directly engage with the sidewalk brings energy into urban districts, making them more inviting for shoppers. I am originally from the Bronx- a very densely populated area, but it always felt welcoming thanks to the bodegas, street-level restaurants, and local businesses. Walking by them made you want to stop and engage. If there were more outdoor areas that were inviting, I can see more people walking and biking to take advantage of them. Adding trees, plants, and other greenery to streets and sidewalks enhances the aesthetic appeal and creates a more welcoming environment.

Q7: Would you support expanding micromobility options like bike share and e-scooters?

To be honest, I had to look this one up! I just learned a new word micromobility and I do support it. I already see a big increase in e-scooters and e-bikes as an alternative to an expensive car and people purchasing them will lower congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. I will need to do more research on what sort of infrastructure I would support or recommend. Thank you for this question and for educating me!