TITLE
Recommendation to direct Public Works to provide the City Council with various elements for a "Safe Alleyways Improvement Plan" with the following:
• Cost estimate of a potential plan that could be implemented, similar to Pavement Management Plan;
• Create a preliminary plan that would prioritize the worst alleyways in the city (for ex: Phase 1: dirt alleyways Phase 2: worst PCI alleyways, etc.);
• Include identifying lighting opportunities for existing Edison poles; and
• Time estimate as to when the study could be completed.
DISCUSSION
In 2006, the City of Long Beach had a designated fund to improve alleys or "courts and ways" in various parts of the city, however due to budget constraints, the fund and plan were eliminated. Since then, most of the major infrastructure improvements have been focused on streets and sidewalks with no formal option for alleys or "courts and ways."
Alleyways or "Courts and Ways" have long been a major topic of discussion for many Long Beach residents, whether due to public safety concerns (lack of lighting, crimes that occur, etc.) or various concerns for infrastructure improvements. In some neighborhoods, there are alleyways that are still just dirt pathways while others are simply in horrible disrepair. These alleys and courts and ways often front resident homes and if improved, can greatly improve public safety and health in our communities if repaved and lit correctly.
Similar to the Pavement Management Plan conducted by Public Works, this item would look at the city's worst alley locations and make recommendations for pavement upgrades as well as opportunities for lighting.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact at this time but should the council decide to move forward with the actual study, there will be a cost estimate provided by Public Works at the time the item returns.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
LENA GONZALEZ
COUNCILWOMAN, FIRST DISTRICT
STACY MUNGO
COUNCILWOMAN, FIFTH DISTRICT
AL AUSTIN
COUNCILMAN, EIGHTH DISTRICT