City of Laguna Beach Mobility and Transit

Transcription

1 City of Laguna Beach Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary Community and Susi Q Senior Center, June 10, 2014 I. Introduction On Tuesday, June 10, 2014, the City of Laguna Beach held a community workshop for the Enhanced Mobility and Complete Streets Transition Plan and the Transit Program Service Analysis. During the workshop, the project team provided information about the City s mobility and transportation initiatives; summarized community input received to date; presented preliminary multimodal recommendations for pedestrians, bicycles and transit; and engaged community members in providing input through group exercises and discussions. The workshop included two exercises to generate discussion and provide feedback about the preliminary recommendations for the plans. During the first exercise, participants reviewed the recommendations in small groups and provided feedback on worksheets. During the second exercise, participants answered a series of questions about preferences related to the preliminary recommendations using handheld polling devices. The following sections summarize the input and comments received during each of the exercises. II. Small Group Discussion Preliminary Recommendations and Considerations The project team presented preliminary recommendations in three categories: pedestrian improvements, bicycle improvements, and transit improvements. In small groups, workshop participants were asked to review the recommendations and provide feedback on the appropriateness of the tools and techniques and potential locations. Groups were also able to suggest additional tools or techniques for the project team to consider. A summary of the 1

2 small group comments on each recommendation is provided below. All of the notes provided on the group worksheets can be found in the appendix. Preliminary Pedestrian Improvements RECOMMENDATION: Close gaps in sidewalk facilities Participants agreed that closing sidewalk gaps is important. In addition to closing sidewalk gaps, groups also identified issues associated with narrow sidewalks, obstacles on sidewalks (parking meters and signs), and a need for crosswalks at Broadway (at Coast Hwy and at bus depot). Off-street pedestrian connections, trails, and other pathways were also highlighted as important to overall pedestrian circulation. The following were identified during small group discussion as priority locations or locations in addition to those listed in the handout: South Laguna Temple Hills & Temple Hills Drive Thalia Laguna Canyon Road Del Mar Hillcrest Drive north of Riddle Field Wave Street Monterey to Acacia to Rosa Bonheur Coast Hwy in North Laguna, Ocean Side Coast Hwy between Ruby s and Nyes Pl Catalina between Thalia & Bluebird Coast Hwy LCAD/Big Bend/Festival/Playhouse area (potential for a series of bridges) Glenneyre (south of Mountain) RECOMMENDATION: Sidewalk zone system Discussion regarding the introduction of a formal sidewalk zone system varied with some comments noting that downtown sidewalks are fine, that safety must come first, and that traffic flow must not be interrupted and others that liked the idea of creating more balance for outdoor dining. Groups also noted that the removal of impediments along sidewalks and repairing sidewalks was essential. Specific locations were called out as appropriate for introducing the zone system: Coast Highway Mozambique Park Ave (north of high school at bend) Temple Hills Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

3 High Drive near Acacia Glenneyre St (eliminate lane) Seating/dining in parking areas during off hours RECOMMENDATION: Longitudinal Crosswalk Markings Most of the small group comments that longitudinal crosswalk markings were a good idea. Additional thoughts on the topic included the following: Catalina/Region needs stop signs Cliff/Broadway/Acacia is awkward/ineffective Improve Glenneyre/Thalia Markings should be reflective Mark all crosswalks or prohibit crossing on major thorough fares Use raised cross walks Use field of vision height lights red not yellow! Consider yellow paint RECOMMENDATION: In-Street Signs & Median/Refuge Island Most comments regarding this recommendation were favorable with specific locations identified along PCH and Laguna Canyon Road. Some concerns were also noted - disrupting traffic flow, losing a travel lane, and potentially being a hazard. Small groups provided the following as additional ideas: Some pedestrian push buttons for signals are located inconveniently, e.g., Myrtle & PCH, Forest & PCH Pedestrian signage ( beware signs) Flashing lights (red lights) in crosswalks (pavement) are only visible to first line of cars. Something higher is needed to be seen by cars further backing or can result in rear end collisions. Increase the street flashing lights for pedestrian crossings and use the space for bike lanes instead Use crushed granite not asphalt! Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

4 RECOMMENDATION: Median Crosswalk Off-Set This recommendation was met with mixed reviews with many comments in favor of this treatment at LCAD and possibly other locations along Laguna Canyon Road. Participants also commented that planted medians would be aesthetically pleasing. However, there was also a concern with reducing travel lanes and the negative impact of a signal on traffic flow. A recommendation to reduce the speed limit to calm traffic was identified a number of times. A pedestrian bridge or tunnel at LCAD and ACT V was also noted as an alternative. RECOMMENDATION: Raised Crosswalks Raised crosswalks received mixed reviews ranging from great idea to not in favor of. Several concerns were cited, including: Fear for students crossing at night Hard on people and cars, big cars No need for raised mid-block crosswalk at Ocean Big cars can t see the crosswalks Need for flashing street lights; more lights For those in favor, specific locations identified included Woodland Drive at Laguna Canyon Road, LCAD, and Cliff north of Coast Highway. A preference for pedestrian bridge at LCAD was noted. RECOMMENDATION: Rapid Flash Beacons Several comments regarding the use of rapid flash beacons were noted, including a recommendation to use red rather than yellow lights, include flashing cat eyes for visibility, use reflective flags, and ensure that the lights are at eye level as well as in the crosswalk. Location comments included having the flashing beacons only on Coast Highway and Laguna Canyon Road and not having at transit stops as there are too many. One comment recommended that pedestrians cross only at intersections in order to keep traffic moving. RECOMMENDATION: Advanced Yield Lines There was general agreement among the groups that advance yield lines would be a good tool to employ. Additional thoughts noted were that the lines should be reflective and that lines would be especially helpful to increase visibility of flashing crosswalks. RECOMMENDATION: Curb Extensions/Bulb-Outs There appeared to almost unanimous feeling that curb extensions are appropriate for Laguna Beach where there is adequate space. Glenneyre was called out as another specific location for the use of curb extensions. Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

5 RECOMMENDATION: Roundabouts Comments on roundabouts were diverse with several concerns and questions about signage, driver awareness, impact to cyclists, size of roundabouts, and their ability to slow traffic. However, numerous comments seemed to support roundabouts and specifically cited the following as potential locations: Laguna Canyon & Forest Laguna Canyon & El Toro Big Bend on Laguna Canyon Road At least four locations on Laguna Canyon Road Coast Highway and Broadway RECOMMENDATION: Walk-Only/Pedestrian Streets With a few a few dissenting opinions, most comments noted approval of instituting Walk- Only/ Pedestrian Streets. Those who approved noted that they had seen it implemented in other locations successfully, and suggested locations for implementation. Suggestions included adding parklets, restaurant seating, and people movers. Comments were also submitted not in agreement with pedestrian streets, noting it would displace parking, attract vagrants, disrupt the flow of traffic from the south to the freeway, and would generally not work in Laguna Beach. Specific locations to create a Walk-Only/Pedestrian Streets are noted below: Forest Avenue. Make it into a landscaped attractive area. Get rid of curbs and street. Ocean and Forest from 3 rd to Coast Highway. Remove all street parking and relocate bus terminal. Excellent idea PCH to Glenneyre on Forest Avenue great place for first pedestrian street Forest between PCH & Glenneyre PED connection from Broadway to Forest Alley behind Coast Hardware Ramona Avenue RECOMMENDATION: All-Way Pedestrian Crossing The majority of comments provided supported an All-Way Pedestrian Crossing, and included observations that it had been done in other locations and gave suggestions as to where the all-way pedestrian crossings should be located. Those opposed noted that there might be possibilities of traffic backing up, that there is currently not enough volume of foot traffic, and closing Forest would make it a non-issue. One comment also suggested reducing speeds on Coast Highway. The following locations were noted for all-way pedestrian crossings: Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

6 One at Broadway & PCH. Probably not an additional one at Forest & Ocean. Broadway/PCH Agreed on Broadway/PCH Broadway/LCR/Forest/Ocean Only at PCH and 133 Broadway/Forest intersection Serves Festival to Bus Depot and downtown walking Agree this great location and idea (Broadway/Coast Hwy) Broadway/PCH Cliff/PCH Laguna Avenue/PCH At certain place coast & 133 RECOMMENDATION: Landscaping maintenance program for private property Participants unanimously agreed that there should be a landscaping maintenance program for private property, although some professed confusion assuming there was one already in place. Additional ideas included considering mailboxes and parking meters as well, enforcing visibility at intersections, and creating a design review or set standards for residents. Other comments spoke to non-native plant species like Eucalyptus, respecting the view of the Ocean, and noted that tree problems often stem from improper installation. Notes on where the maintenance program would be effective are below. Especially necessary in residential neighborhoods. Virginia Street/3 rd Avenue Landlord of 7-eleven/post office must trim prune trees. Alta Vista Thalia Laguna Canyon Preliminary Bicycle Recommendations RECOMMENDATION: Bike & Pedestrian Master Plan Participants expressed overwhelming support for a Bike/ Pedestrian Master Plan, but also suggested increasing the frequency and number of bus lines and adding to the trolley fleet. Size of buses and trolleys should also be considered in relation to the narrow roads in many Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

7 parts of the city. Comments noted that a Master Plan needs to look at future high density impact and long term goals, explore grant opportunities, and apply for government funding. RECOMMENDATION: Signed Bike Routes and Sharrows Responses to Signed Bike Routes and Sharrows were less affirmative compared to other options. Some participants thought it was a good technique to build awareness for drivers about bicyclists and would promote respect and cooperation, while others thought signs and sharrows would provide minimal improvements. Participants noted that the experience in other communities was less than ideal, while others commented on the design of the bike route, including making the colors brighter and having cyclists use another route besides Coast Highway. Those who responded negatively suggested providing protected bike lanes (noting their limitations as well), and noted that data on improved safety with sharrows was low. RECOMMENDATION: Bike Lanes & Road Diets Participants were mostly supportive of creating Bike Lanes and by using Road Diets. Comments were made on how to market them, including focusing on safety and using examples of cities that have successfully implemented the design. One comment questioned what would happen in an emergency situation, and anther suggested that they would not approve of fewer lanes for vehicular traffic. Participants expressed support for designating Glenneyre as a priority street for bicycling and walking. Another comment was that rickshaws could use the bike lanes. RECOMMENDATION: Buffered Bike Lanes There seemed to be agreement on creating buffered bike lanes at the locations presented, although comments were made about green bike lanes and the potential reduced traffic flow of a buffered lane. A suggestion was made to limit bikes on Coast Highway, and that a buffered bike lane might interfere with potential landscaping. Laguna Canyon Road was noted as a location for a buffered lane. RECOMMENDATION: Protected Bike Lanes/Cycle Tracks Discussion around Protected Bike Lanes/Cycle Tracks seemed to be positive, with comments focusing on shifting parking away from the curb to accommodate a cycle track, displaying public art as bike lane delineators, and that this option would be ideal for non-traditional bicyclists. One suggested location for a protected bike lane/cycle track would be on old Laguna Canyon Road through Dilley Park. Some concerns were noted in terms of how narrow access routes would become, and that examples from the workshop focused on recreation and not utility. Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

8 RECOMMENDATION: Off-Street Bike Path/Multi-Use Trail Participants agreed that a multi-use off-street bike path would be acceptable, mainly along Laguna Canyon Road. Comments noted that this technique could be used by a variety of cycling options (rickshaw, electric /solar bike, and pedal car). Suggestions were made to match the surface with the existing ground, and to use crushed rock to make a more rustic path. Participants acknowledged the need for balance and noted that open space should also be considered. Utility routes/easements were suggested for locating bike paths and trails. RECOMMENDATION: Parklets and Bike Corrals Parklets and Bike Corrals were agreeable to participants. Comments focused on seating that would prevent homeless from sleeping there, and to match the style of Laguna Beach. Comments on where Parklets would work are below: Park Avenue Library to PCH Turn Forest into pedestrian environment. RECOMMENDATION: Bike Share There was some agreement around a bike share. It was noted included that it would enhance flexibility for people to navigate the city in a more enjoyable way. Suggestions included creating a bike, scooter, rickshaw, and electric bike share, but a comment was made that improvements to the areas to bicycle would be needed first. Preliminary Transit Recommendations RECOMMENDATION: Adjust Scheduling & Routes Participants responded to Adjusting Scheduling and Routes in terms of time, frequency, location, concerns about the blue bus, and how to promote bus ridership. Comments were made to adjust the bus route times to accommodate weekend evening activities and senior schedules. People noted the need for a higher frequency of buses during major events and to larger tourist attractions (i.e. Top of the World). Frequency was noted with highlighting specific routes or nodes, including introducing/increasing routes listed below: Transit centers (Irvine, Fashion Island) Separate Arch Bch Heights and Bluebird Cyn routes for more direct route from ABH to downtown Schedule City bus to Club Laguna/Audabon (800 people in Club Laguna with no city bus. Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

9 Expand routes to Dana Point/Fashion Island. Shuttle to Metrolink Irvine. Link shuttles to Metrolink N/S- E/W Dana Point to Newport Laguna Beach to Irvine and El Toro Weekend late bus up to top of world More parking further out in Canyon There was also discussion of the use and routes of the Blue Bus. One comment noted confusion of why the Blue Bus served routes that OCTA could support, but also why it served locations outside of Laguna Beach while not traveling to all communities in the City. Promotion of ridership in general was discussed in different ways, providing incentives at local businesses and restaurants for people who used public transportation. RECOMMENDATION: Enhance Taxi Voucher Program Participants noted limited support to enhance the taxi voucher program, noting that many drivers refuse to honor a voucher and that bus vouchers were preferable. Most of the comments on Taxi Vouchers centered on ride-share programs, with suggestions to consider specific services (ie. Uber and Look at Life). Another option mentioned was Collectionos, which operate in Mexico as a supplement for taxis and busses. RECOMMENDATION: Supplemental Senior Transportation Some groups commented that the current program for seniors is sufficient. Ridesharing was again mentioned as an option for senior transportation, and one group commented on the need for seniors to get service for medical appointments. Specific comments identified in the group discussions are noted below: Bus stop needed on Coast Hwy & Ocean or Broadway going north. Not just for seniors. More users would mean lower cost per rider. Partner with OCTA Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

10 Additional Tools and Techniques The groups were also able to suggest additional tools or techniques to improve mobility and transit. The following discussions were added to the group worksheets. One group suggested having demonstration projects in certain areas in order to test improvements before permanently installing them in other areas. One group suggested U-turns on El Toro, Laguna, and Canyon with a signal to facilitate return traffic to Laguna Beach, as well as a left-turn toward Laguna Beach on Laguna Canyon Rd. from the dog park. Another comment suggested multi-modal connections out of town traffic loops through downtown. Replacing Stop signs with Yield signs were suggested at North Beach and Cliff, where it was noted that bicycles must travel up a steep grade and come to a complete stop. Reversing the flow of traffic on Forest was also suggested. Another noted that a trolley in South Laguna near Neopolitan and Coyote would facilitate resident mobility, and that motorcycles and cars without mufflers should be prohibited on Coast Highway. School buses were suggested to cross Laguna Canyon Road by the pedestrian bridge for Tow Elementary, Annelisee School, and the High School, with extending lines on the street to indicate street parking and related to promoting exercise and treating ADHD. Alternative forms of mobile transportation were noted as additional tools. These include rickshaws, collectivos and other shared shuttles, and electric and solar scooters. Noted benefits include speed/efficiency over taxis and not using petrol. Comments on these forms of transportation suggested starting from Act V to downtown, and using Glennyre to take passengers downtown to south Laguna. Connectivity to the train station in Irvine and getting buy-in from the public first were also suggested. A system of identifying and creating pathways and stairways through the Temple Hills area was noted. One comment mentioned pedestrian pathways that link streets and neighborhoods to open space is as important as sidewalks, and that informal pathways can be and have been used as evacuation routes in mudslides. Two comments suggest a pathway linking lower Temple Hills sidewalk to Temple Terrace through the Water District property. III. Group Polling and Discussion Following the small group exercise, workshop participants answered a series of questions regarding the preliminary recommendations using handheld polling devices. Community members shared related discussions from the small group exercise as well as individual Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

11 thoughts following each question. The following are the results of the polls and notes from the group discussion. Question 1: How did you get to tonight s meeting? Question 2: How do you feel about the draft pedestrian improvements shared tonight? Participants suggested a pedestrian bridge at LCAD, pedestrian refuges, finishing sidewalks and removing obstructions. Other suggestions are listed below: 20 is plenty speed limits Address Alta Vista, hill communities, Nyes Place and south Laguna Support all way/scramble crossing Create a pathway for Temple Hills Thalia & Went address sightlines Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

12 Integrate walking paths Forest change direction of vehicular travel Lit crosswalks on Coast Highway Question 3: How do you feel about the draft bicycling improvements shared tonight? Several comments noted a preference for separate bike lanes or corrals over sharrows, one noting that sharrows could be a short term option. Accommodating alternative biking options like rickshaws and electric scooters were again mentioned, along with a suggestion to look at what other cities are doing and be leaders with Coast Highway and Laguna Canyon Road. Question 4: How do you feel about the draft transit program improvements shared tonight? Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

13 Rideshares and rideshare apps versus taxis were mentioned by several participants in response to the draft transit program recommendations, as well as responses noted below: Later in evening service to hillsides Connect to Irvine train Stay out of neighborhoods with narrow streets (south Laguna) Bluebird Canyon & Arch Beach Heights separate routes Allow dogs Create walking, biking & transit culture Transit underutilized Work with schools to encourage more busses used by students Hospitality industry partner/subsidize Expand routes to outside destinations Extend trolley to South Laguna year round Move bus depot closer to Sawdust Look at smaller vehicle for demand times Question 5: Ideally, when balanced with parking needs, which type of bicycle facility would you most prefer? Participants specifically noted to remove cars from Forest, to think long term, and to provide different options for visitors and locals. Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

14 Question 6: What intersection treatments would you most like to explore in the City? Question 7: For which would you be most willing to trade parking? Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,

15 Question 8: Would you be more likely to take transit if it were provided as a Dial-a-Ride service that picked you up at your front door? One comment suggested an annual fee for residents for unlimited dial a ride. A couple of comments on the overall improvements included considering parking and cars in the system and considering emergency responders. IV. Additional Notes In addition to the group worksheets and discussion notes, some individual participants provided the project team with additional notes. These notes are provided in the appendix. V. Next Steps Community input received during the workshop will be used by the project team to refine and augment the preliminary recommendations for the Enhanced Mobility and Complete Streets Transition Plan and the Transit Program Service Analysis. Subsequent community workshops will be held for the community to review the refined recommendations and provide input on the final plans. Mobility and Transit Community Workshop Summary June 10,