Department of Public Works Awarded $4.5 Million to Improve Traffic Safety in Long Beach

“Traffic safety continues to be a priority in Long Beach,” said Mayor Robert Garcia in a statement. “This grant funding allows the city to fund important traffic projects that will make Long Beach safer for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.”

The city was awarded the funds for three projects submitted by the DPW’s Traffic Engineering Division in August, in response to residents’ requests to add pedestrian crossing assistance where a traffic signal isn’t warranted, according to city officials.

“By awarding this grant, Caltrans recognizes all the work the city is doing to improve traffic safety and mobility throughout Long Beach,” said Director of Public Works Craig Beck in a statement.

The following improvements are being funded by the grant:

• On various parts of Anaheim Street between Atlantic Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway, crews will install medians, improve traffic signal equipment and enhance pedestrian refuge islands.
• On Los Coyotes Diagonal, between Outer Traffic Circle and Carson Street, crews will upgrade traffic signals to improve safety and reduce conflicts between vehicles turning left and traveling straight.
• At 18 “uncontrolled” intersections around the city, crews will enhance pedestrian crossings, including the installation of high-visibility crosswalks with solar-powered flashing beacons and advance warning signs and markings.

The city is expected to receive the HSIP funds in mid-2017, with the crosswalk improvements slated to be completed by the end of 2017. The remaining improvements are expected to be completed by the end of 2019, according to the city.

City News Service contributed to this report.