TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing the temporary closure of Pine Avenue from First Street to Third Street (Phase-I), to through vehicular traffic for increased outdoor activities and a stronger economic recovery, from August 14, 2020, through October 31, 2020, or until the Safer at Home Health Order for Control of COVID-19 (Health Order) changes, whichever comes first. (District 2)
DISCUSSION
On May 19, 2020, the City Council requested the City Manager to create an open streets initiative and explore ways to open more public space throughout Long Beach to allow for increased outdoor activities and stronger economic recovery, while maintaining appropriate physical distancing, in accordance with the current Safer at Home Health Order (Health Order).
On June 16, 2020, to support COVID-19 recovery for businesses and residents, the City Council approved an Open Streets Initiative to temporarily transform public areas into safe spaces for physically-distanced activity. Partnering with the Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DLBA), a full street closure of Pine Avenue was included in the Open Streets Initiative. Under emergency COVID-19 guidelines, the closure of Pine Avenue, from First Street to Third Street, will begin effective Friday, August 14, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. and extend through October 31, 2020, or until the Health Order changes, whichever comes first.
The City of Long Beach (City) has issued Health Orders restricting activities of the community as a means of slowing the spread of COVID-19. The Health Orders are in alignment with efforts in the region, including Los Angeles County Public Health, the City of Los Angeles, and Pasadena Public Health, as well as the statewide order issued by Governor Newsom on March 19, 2020.
City Council adoption of the Resolution authorizes the temporary closure of Pine Avenue from First Street to Third Street (Phase-I).
The Departments of Public Works, Fire, Police, Financial Management, Development Services, Health and Human Services, and City Attorney have reviewed the proposed closure.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Amy R. Webber on August 13, 2020 and by Budget Analysis Officer Julissa Jose-Murray on August 13, 2020.
SUSTAINABILITY
Neighborhood street closures focus on sustainability, efficiency, and alternative transportation modalities, which are intended to reduce or eliminate greenhouse gas emissions while also prioritizing and promoting healthy living opportunities.
STATEMENT OF URGENCY
To expedite the execution of the Resolution and concurrently implement the temporary closure of Pine Avenue between First Street and Third Street, City Council action is requested on August 18, 2020.
EQUITY LENS
The City has incorporated the Equity Toolkit into this recommendation as requested by the City Council on April 21, 2020. Creating an open streets initiative and exploring ways to open more public space citywide, in particular in open space and park deficient areas, allows for increased outdoor activities and a stronger economic recovery, while maintaining appropriate physical distancing in accordance with the current Health Order.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council approval is requested on August 18, 2020.
FISCAL IMPACT
Costs associated with the recommendation for planning, implementing, maintaining and removal are minimal and will be absorbed through the Open Streets grant from the Los Angeles Country Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), which was adopted by the City Council on March 17, 2020, and CARES Act funds provided by the State and approved by the City Council on July 14, 2020, to support the Open Streets Initiative to be administered by the Public Works Department to provide parklets and outdoor dining. This request is anticipated to have a minimal impact on staff hours beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
[Enter Body Here]
Respectfully Submitted,
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER