The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m.

1. Roll Call

   Present: Commissioners, Applebaum, Beste, Cheatham, Lombardo
   Commissioner Winnek arrived at 7:07 p.m.

   Also Present: Richard Morgan, Director of Public Works/City Engineer
   Ray Abassi, Contract Traffic Engineer
   Michael Flaherty, Public Works Superintendent
   Rhea Punneo, Administrative Assistant, Public Works Department

   Absent: None

2. Flag Salute

   Commissioner Lombardo led the flag salute.

3. Approval of Minutes of February 18, 2004

   Minutes were approved as written.

4. Public Comment: Anyone wishing to address the Commission on other items pertaining to Public Works may do so at this time.

   None.

5. Correspondence

   None.

6. Items for Commission Consideration

   1. Request to Reduce Green Time for Westbound Left-Turn Arrow on Aviation Blvd. at Prospect Ave. (PDF File)

      Mr. Morgan presented a brief history and then turned the floor to Ray Abassi, City Traffic Engineer. Mr. Abassi reviewed his presentation done the last time this change had been requested, approximately a year ago. Mr. Abassi stated that if the timing were changed, the signal would not be operating at optimum conditions, that cars would be waiting two to three cycles to make the left turn.

      Mr. Abassi noted that there might be more "cut-through" traffic due to people using Prospect to avoid the traffic delays on Pacific Coast Highway. Of primary concern is the left-turn movement to southbound Prospect Avenue from westbound Aviation.

      Mr. Morgan advised that the best solution to this problem could be the upcoming improvements scheduled for Pacific Coast Highway at Aviation Blvd. Caltrans is aware of this situation and has agreed that this is a high-priority project.

      Mr. Ray Abassi presented the results of the most recent traffic study in this area. It was determined that before any action could be taken, the problem needed to be clearly defined (possibly conducting a license plate survey) and reviewed as to the impact of any timing modification. Mr. Morgan noted that Council voted to take no further action at that time as the separate left-turn signal was initially designed as a safety measure to protect left-turns. It was also noted that Prospect Avenue is classified as a collector street and the purpose of a collector street is to carry traffic from minor streets to major arterial streets.

      The floor was then opened to public comments.

      Tim Podczerviensky, 1021 Prospect

      • The arrow green so long it invites traffic.
      • Would like to have turn restrictions implemented to keep traffic out during peak commuter hours.
      • Backing out of a driveway is dangerous due to the high volume of traffic and the high rates of speed at which they travel.
      • Speeding between Prospect and 8th needs to be addressed, preferably by stop signs.
      • Speeds and traffic has increased dramatically.
      • Even though Prospect is classified as a collector street, it is a residential street for them.

      Victor Rivers, 1091 10th Street

      • Resident since 1991 on the Northwest corner of 10th and Prospect and has an aerial view of this location.
      • Has noticed speeds of 40, 45, up to 60 mph daily.
      • Has witnessed 15 accidents and hears them often.
      • Many children live on the street; believes just a matter of time before a pedestrian is hit.
      • Feels a stop sign at 10th Street would alleviate the situation, two stop signs would be better.

      Roger Bardeau, 535 Prospect

      • 12 year resident and has seen an incredible increase in traffic.
      • Lives at the intersection of 5th and 6th and Prospect, a staggered intersection that makes it difficult to back out of the driveway or cross the street.
      • Believes stop sign would be an improvement, but sees motorists ignoring stop signs.
      • Due to increased population, optimal solution could be to divert traffic away from this area.
      • Utmost concern should be for the safety of residents in this area.

      Terry Leighton, 583 Prospect

      • Also at corner of 6th and Prospect.
      • Would like to see four-way stop implemented to force motorists to look both ways.
      • Have noticed motorists rolling through stop signs.
      • Currently no crosswalks to access Fort Lots-of-Fun - they are needed.

      Al Hodges, 1020 Prospect Ave.

      • Resident since 1973.
      • Said traffic is either backed-up bumper-to-bumper or speeding.
      • Has seen increased truck traffic on Prospect.
      • Have seen many cars ignoring posted speed limit and stop signs.

      Mary Laga, 920 Prospect Avenue

      • Mother of three children, walks to Hermosa View School daily said crossing Aviation is a nightmare and has had several near misses.
      • Witnessed a mother with a stroller in the crosswalk at 9th & Prospect when a large pick-up drove through as if she wasn't there.
      • Not sure of solution, stop signs are not working - maybe speed bumps.
      • Possibly posting signs that say 'not a thoroughfare' as on Meadows in Manhattan Beach.

      Johan Tondeur, 920 Prospect Avenue

      • Asked when a license plate survey be done.
      • Said would like Commission to seek creative ways to make traveling on Prospect less desirable.
      • Stop signs are not working, maybe speed bumps would be helpful.
      • Suggested cutting Prospect at 5th so that traffic is forced down to PCH.

      Discussion among the Commissioners highlighted the following:

      • Would decreasing green time deter traffic from this area? Impact on the surrounding areas?
      • Should review the green time duration and turn restrictions in the surrounding areas to determine which creates the increased traffic.
      • Prospect was designed as a collector to service the surrounding streets.
      • Must consider jurisdictional lines with Redondo Beach when implementing any changes and/or modifications.
      • Speed humps not permitted on Prospect.
      • Have to remember that solutions to reduce speeds on Prospect may force traffic onto residential streets.
      • When PCH/Aviation re-signaled will enhance traffic flow.
      • Traffic signals and/or stop signs do not reduce volume, but additional traffic signals would help to better manage traffic rather than looking for ways to restrict traffic.
      • Focus of all modifications and/or changes should be on resident safety.
      • Enforcement of speed limits on Prospect needed.
      • It was clarified that only local delivery trucks are allowed on Prospect.
      • Mr. Abassi discussed new technology that is now available to assist with pedestrian crossing safety.
      • Cost to modify timing not a factor.

      MOTION by Commissioner Winnek to:

      1. Forward the Public Works Commission's request to the HBPD to immediately intensify enforcement of traffic laws on Prospect;
      2. Modify the signal timing for a 60-day period to decrease the number of vehicles turning south onto Prospect from Aviation; and
      3. Have staff prepare a detailed traffic survey of the area with the actual scope to be determined staff.

      Seconded by Commissioner Lombardo.

      Discussion prior to the vote determined that the survey would be taken concurrently with 60-day trial period and would include the areas that appear to most impacted by the traffic flow.

      AYES: Applebaum, Beste, Cheatham, Lombardo, Winnek
      NAYS: None
      ABSENT: None
      ABSTAIN: None

   2. Pavement Management Study (PDF File)

      Mr. Morgan informed the Commission that the firm producing the Pavement Management Study is experiencing a software glitch, which is delaying presentation of the completed study. This in turn delays the compilation of the Capital Improvement Program Five-Year Plan. Mr. Morgan then introduced Yaz Emrani, P.E. of Advanced Infrastructure Management, the firm preparing the study. Mr. Emrani's presentation consisted of an overview of the study and findings and an explanation of terms used.

      Discussion of this item highlighted the following:

      • Once the glitches are worked out of the software, the complete report will be presented to the Commission.
      • Can program be updated as repairs and changes are made? Yes.
      • Collector and arterial streets can benefit by overlays but residential streets will need reconstruction.
      • City is currently at a level of 49.6, would like to get to and maintain a level of 60.
      • Timing of street improvements may not be determined by PCI alone.
      • Staff will look at various methods of asphalt versus concrete repairs to determine which is most cost-effective.
      • Stopgap measures may be used to keep streets at current levels rather than letting them deteriorate more.
      • It was suggested that a CIP sub-committee be formed to assist with project selection.

      MOTION by Commissioner Applebaum to receive and file report. Seconded by Commissioner Lombardo.

      AYES: Applebaum, Beste, Cheatham, Lombardo, Winnek
      NAYS: None
      ABSENT: None
      ABSTAIN: None

      The Commissioners then determined that the members of the sum-committee would be Mr. Applebaum and Mr. Beste. The objective of this sub-committee will be to work with Staff and present a completed Five-Year Plan to Council. The sub-committee has established a timeline of meeting to be prepared for the May meeting.

   3. Steam Cleaning within the Public Right-Of-Way (PDF File)

      It had been requested by Commissioner Cheatham that the steam cleaning agreement be brought before the Commission before going out to bid. In point of fact, the contract did not go out for bid, instead Council approved a three-year extension of the steam contract with Eklund's BLASTOFF. The terms of the extension reduced the overall annual cost, and will allow for additional areas to be included.

      Discussion among the Commissioners included the following:

      • Strand walkouts are cleaned on a case-by-case basis. Mr. Flaherty will obtain a price for this to be done on a regular basis.
      • The trash enclosures are not cleaned by Eklund's BLASTOFF!
      • Improvements have been made to the cleaning process that reduce water and collect grease and oil.
      • Garage steam cleaners are asked to check surrounding area for people before starting.
      • Merchants not disposing of waste properly is a continuing problem.
      • Concern was expressed for the public right-of-way areas used for outdoor dining by merchants. It was suggested to the merchants to utilize the services of BLASTOFF for these areas and some have done so.
      • It was suggested that an increase in the cost of their encroachment permits to cover the cost of cleaning these areas might be the way to go.
      • Deodorant and/or disinfectant have been added to steam cleaning products. Mr. Morgan will discuss this with the steam-cleaning contractor.

      MOTION by Commissioner Cheatham to receive and file as recommended. Seconded by Commissioner Lombardo.

      AYES: Applebaum, Beste, Cheatham, Lombardo, Winnek
      NAYS: None
      ABSENT: None
      ABSTAIN: None

7. Commissioners' Reports

   None.

8. Council Minutes and/or Agendas: 1/27/04, 2/10/04 Minutes; 2/24/04, 3/9/04 Agendas

   Receive and file all.

9. Items Requested by Commissioners

   Commissioner Cheatham suggested that additional signage be placed at 2nd Street east of Pacific Coast Highway to keep cars from entering the one way area, current signage too high and residents have complained. Also suggested posting a sign that indicates the amount of the fine. Mr. Morgan advised that enforcement has been requested and he hopes to have the information for the next meeting. Also, he's looking into placing a digital, changeable sign where the fine can be posted. Mr. Morgan stated that he is open to any signage suggestions.

   Commissioner Beste inquired about the City's AB939 compliance issues. Mr. Morgan advised that here in Hermosa Public Works isn't involved in AB939, the City Manager and Community Development are responsible for compliance. Currently, Public Works is working on new policies that will require projects of $100,000 or greater and residential demolition to provide their own recycling on site. Mr. Morgan will bring information back to the Commission within the next two meetings.

   Commissioner Applebaum:

   • Asked for an update on manhole covers on Pacific Coast Highway. Mr. Flaherty advised that replacement will be approximately $10 - $50,000 citywide. The lids are worn down and cannot be easily replaced as the lid manufacturer is out of business. All new frames and lids with locking mechanisms will be installed. Phase 1 consists of 30 - 35 replacements citywide; approximately 20 will be installed on PCH at one time. Mr. Flaherty will bring in a drawing at the next meeting.

   • Requested that due to volleyball season ongoing at the high schools that volleyball poles at the beach be checked for maintenance issues. Mr. Flaherty advised that he will add this to his list for review and informed the Commission that all new poles have been put into use at City courts.

   • Inquired about a schedule for right/left turn lanes on Pacific Coast Highway/Pier. Mr. Morgan believes striping for handicap and crosswalk will be completed next week and the entire project should be completed within the month.

10. Other Matters

    Mr. Morgan informed Commission that Caltrans has approved the traffic signal at 16th and Pacific Coast Highway as per the new development for 24 Hour Fitness.

    Mr. Flaherty's announcements included:

    • Council approved the Strand lighting project - 10th and 11th to 15th and 14th with new lights, flashers, signs, new sandwich boards, a manual switch installed so the light will go out automatically, as requested by the PD. Also the speed limit has been changed from 10 to 8 mph. It will take several weeks to replace signing and striping at the 40 - 50 locations.

    • Arrival of new trashcans citywide and 200 have been installed. Goal is to have 100 - 150 recycling cans on the street along with the trashcans. Working with Long Beach Conservation Corps who will be picking up recyclables. Recycling program should be started in two months.

    • 11th and Ardmore Ave. street collapse was due to a damaged sewer line. It has been repaired.

11. Public Comment

    None.

12. Adjournment

    Chairman Lombardo adjourned the meeting at 9:29 p.m. to the meeting of April 21, 2004.