TITLE
Recommendation to adopt resolution authorizing the temporary closure of Pine Avenue from Fourth Street to Fifth Street (Phase-II), to through vehicular traffic for increased outdoor activities and a stronger economic recovery, from September 25, 2020 through December 31, 2020, or until the Safer at Home Health Order for Control of COVID-19 changes, whichever comes first. (District 1)
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 temporary street closure of Pine Avenue was included in the Open Streets Initiative.
On August 18, 2020, under emergency COVID-19 guidelines, City Council approved the temporary closure of Pine Avenue, from First Street to Third Street (Phase I), which began effective August 14, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. through October 31, 2020, or until the Health Order changes, whichever comes first. On September 15, 2020, the City Council voted to expand and extend the temporary closure of Pine Avenue until at least the end of 2020, this term extension now applies to Phase I.
The temporary closure of an additional segment of Pine Avenue, from Fourth Street to Fifth Street (Phase II), began effective September 25, 2020 through December 31, 2020, or until the Health Order changes, whichever comes first. City Council adoption of the Resolution authorizes the temporary closure of Pine Avenue from Fourth Street to Fifth Street (Phase II).
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 <https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/3.19.20-attested-EO-N-33-20-COVID-19-HEALTH-ORDER.pdf> issued by Governor Newsom on March 19, 2020.
The Departments of Public Works, Fire, Police, Financial Management, Development Services, Health and Human Services, and City Attorney reviewed the proposed closure. The City Traffic Engineer reviewed the proposed closure for traffic and pedestrian safety. The City ADA Coordinator reviewed the proposed closure to ensure Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access is adequate.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Amy R. Webber and Budget Analysis Officer Julissa José-Murray on September 17, 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.
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 October 6, 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