Upcoming Public Meeting on the Pacific Avenue Transformation Project
The Long Beach Department of Public Works is set to hold a public meeting on Thursday, April 2, at the Billie Jean King Main Library, located at 200 W. Broadway. This meeting aims to shed light on the anticipated changes to Pacific Avenue, a crucial thoroughfare in the city. Residents are encouraged to attend and engage with city staff who will provide an extensive overview of the project and its implications.
Objectives of the Pacific Avenue Transformation Project
At the heart of the Pacific Avenue Transformation Project is the goal of enhancing safety and accessibility for all modes of transportation. Whether you’re a driver, a transit rider, a bicyclist, or a pedestrian, the planned updates are designed with your needs in mind. The city has identified a pressing need for safer conditions, particularly as Pacific Avenue currently ranks fourth in the city for severe pedestrian and bicyclist crashes.
What to Expect at the Meeting
During the meeting, participants will be treated to an informative presentation detailing the proposed design elements of the project. City staff will discuss various aspects, including projected safety benefits and the construction timeline, which is slated to kick off in the fall of 2026. Attendees can also expect a variety of visual displays to help illustrate the planned improvements, as well as the opportunity to directly engage with staff through questions. To ensure inclusivity, interpretation services will be offered in Spanish, Khmer, and Tagalog.
Key Changes and Enhancements
The project will introduce several significant changes to Pacific Avenue that are aimed at improving safety for everyone. Notable features include:
- Separated Bike Lanes: These lanes will be explicitly set apart from vehicle traffic to ensure the safety of cyclists.
- Protected Intersections: These designs will minimize conflict points between vehicles and pedestrians, providing a safer crossing experience for all.
- High-Visibility Crosswalks: Upgraded crosswalks will enhance visibility, making it easier for pedestrians to cross safely.
- Reconstructed Curb Ramps and Sidewalk Upgrades: These will improve accessibility for all users, particularly for those with mobility challenges.
- Signal Enhancements: Improved traffic signals will facilitate better coordination between different modes of transportation.
- New Bus Boarding Areas and Shelters: Enhanced transit facilities will make it easier and more comfortable for riders to access public transportation.
A significant aspect of this transformation includes the reduction of lane usage on Pacific Avenue—from five lanes down to one lane in each direction. The City has assessed this change, asserting that it will have minimal impact on overall commute times.
The Need for Change
The necessity for this project stems from alarming statistics regarding safety on Pacific Avenue. Since 2020, there have been four fatalities in the area, three of which involved pedestrians. A traffic study conducted in November 2024 revealed that only 14% of drivers adhered to the 25 mph speed limit, highlighting the urgent need for interventions that will not only reduce speeds but also make the corridor safer for everyone.
Funding and Supporting Initiatives
Funding for the Pacific Avenue Transformation Project is sourced from a combination of grants, including a Caltrans Active Transportation Program grant and a Surface Transportation Block Grant. These funds will directly support the City’s Bicycle Master Plan, fostering a robust connection between east/west bikeways on 3rd Street, Broadway, and 14th Street. The enhancements also aim to facilitate improved access to transit services such as the Metro A Line, Long Beach Transit, and Torrance Transit.
Additionally, a separate project, funded by a $25 million Safe Streets and Roads for All grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, will focus on the northern section of Pacific Avenue, stretching from Pacific Coast Highway to Wardlow Road. This section is slated for construction towards the end of 2026.
Engaging the Community
The Long Beach Department of Public Works recognizes the essential role community engagement plays in the planning process. By holding public meetings and providing translation services, the city aims to foster an inclusive atmosphere where all voices can be heard. This collaborative approach can ultimately yield a safer and more accessible Pacific Avenue for everyone who travels through or lives along this vital corridor.
