I. RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize staff to initiate Traffic Data Collection (TDC) and analysis for the SMART Sunset Corridor Project to develop a comprehensive Traffic Operation, Safety, and Multimodal Access Plan for the Sunset Avenue school corridor, and authorize staff to implement near-term operational improvements, as appropriate, based on stakeholder consensus.
II. BACKGROUND:
The SMART Sunset Corridor Project is a targeted initiative to improve traffic operations, pedestrian safety, and multimodal access along the Sunset Avenue / Van Ness Street / Cambridge Avenue corridor.
This corridor serves multiple school sites, including elementary, middle, and high school facilities, and experiences high pedestrian volumes and concentrated drop-off/pick-up activity during peak school hours. As a result, it represents one of the City’s highest priority areas for operational and safety improvements.
Alta Planning + Design Inc. developed the City’s Active Transportation Plan (ATP) and is recommended for this effort based on their familiarity with local conditions, prior analysis, and established working relationship with City staff.
Initial costs will be associated with consultant services for the corridor study scoping, concept planning and pre-design, staff is requesting an authorization not to exceed $50k.
The project is being structured to:
- Maximize eligibility for external grant funding
- Prioritize low-cost, high-impact near-term improvements
- Phase capital expenditures over time
III. DISCUSSION:
In coordination with Alta Planning + Design Inc., the proposed scope includes an evaluation of existing corridor conditions, including traffic circulation, curb management, pedestrian and bicycle access, and safety. The study will provide a data driven analysis of traffic conflicts and operational deficiencies.
A phased approach is recommended, subject to Council direction, the planning phase will identify near-term operational changes, longer-term modifications, and potential capital improvements with concepts. The effort will help position the City to pursue external funding by developing grant-ready materials for programs such as ATP and SS4A.
The study area includes the Sunset Avenue corridor and adjacent school frontages and intersections, reflecting current traffic patterns and school related activity. Implementation will require coordination with the Coalinga-Huron Unified School District and City departments to ensure solutions are practical, supported, and effective.
Current conditions indicate:
- Congested and inefficient traffic flow during peak periods
- Conflicts between vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists
- Inconsistent curbside management and loading/unloading practices
- Limited alignment with best practices for school access and safety
The project is proposed to be delivered in two phases:
Phase 1 – Existing Conditions & Engagement
Analysis of traffic operations, multimodal conditions, curb use, and safety, combined with stakeholder outreach. Findings will inform recommended actions. Development and evaluation of improvement concepts, refinement of preferred strategies, and coordination and outreach with the community, stakeholders and City staff.
Phase 2 – Comprehensive Corridor Plan
Preparation of a unified implementation framework, including a Traffic Operations Plan, Safety Plan, and Multimodal Access Plan, with identified capital projects, policy recommendations, and implementation priorities.
IV. ALTERNATIVES:
- Authorize Project (Recommended)
- Modify Scope or Study Area- Direct staff to revise project parameters prior to proceeding
- Do Not Proceed- Maintain current conditions without a coordinated improvement strategy
V. FISCAL IMPACT:
Phase 1 for the TDC and analysis is expected to be an amount not to exceed $50K, funded from Measure C Flexible Funding - Profe4ssional Services.
The project is being structured to:
- Maximize eligibility for external grant funding
- Prioritize low-cost, high-impact near-term improvements
- Phase capital expenditures over time
Attached is Alta's proposal however this includes a menu of items that can be undertaken however staff is focused on initial planning and developing tangible concepts that can be developed for consideration and future planning and implementation.
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