TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution closing to vehicular traffic a portion of the public right-of-way known as West La Reina Way, between Del Rey Court and Chestnut Avenue, and adopt and accept Categorical Exemption No. CE 42-12. (District 1)
DISCUSSION
In 2011, the City of Long Beach (City) applied for Proposition 84's Urban Greening for the Sustainable Communities Program (Program). The Program is administered by the Strategic Growth Council and provides funds to preserve, enhance, increase or establish green areas such as urban forests, open spaces, and community gardens. In 2012, the City was awarded $170,000 for the construction of the Willmore Courts and Ways Demonstration Project located at La Reina Way and Chestnut Avenue in the Drake Park/Willmore City Historic Landmark District.
The proposed demonstration project involves closure of West La Reina Way, between Del Rey Court and Chestnut Avenue, to vehicular traffic shown on the attached vicinity map. This project will transform an alley within an urban residential block into a model for a sustainable pedestrian way by improving the walkability, incorporating stormwater management features, planting drought tolerant plants, and other sustainable enhancements. Wilmore City Historic Association, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation, was established to improve, preserve, and promote the community of Willmore City, has signed a contract agreeing to perform the necessary maintenance of the green pedestrian way, including repairs, maintenance of landscaping, and custodial services for a minimum of 20 years.
The proposed closure will serve a variety of functions. The proposed pedestrian way will provide access to front yards and side entrances, safe play space for children, a meeting place for neighbors, and enhanced pedestrian and bicycle circulation in the neighborhood. The area will still remain public and open to pedestrian and bicycle traffic. The City has been in close communication with the neighbo...
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