Council will consider a project to enhance pedestrian safety and other business Oct. 8

The City Council on Tuesday, October 8 will consider a project that will enhance pedestrian safety at a busy intersection as well as receive an update on the La Paz Bridge and Roadway Widening project, among other business.

The business portion of the meeting starts at 6 pm in the Council Chamber at 200 Civic Center.

Council Members will consider approving bid specifications for a High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) Traffic Signal Installation and Intersection Improvements project across Olympiad Road at the Lake Mission Viejo/Marty Russo Youth Athletic Park entrance. The project would provide a signalized crosswalk for pedestrians crossing Olympiad between the lake and park.  The lake and Marty Russo Youth Athletic Park often provide overflow parking for their respective events, which generates pedestrian crossings on Olympiad Road between the two venues.  Because these pedestrian crossings occur mainly during events, a standard traffic signal is unnecessary and would disrupt traffic flow.  The HAWK signal is activated only when there is pedestrian crossing demand.  Thus, the HAWK signal will provide safe pedestrian crossing while stopping traffic only when necessary. According to the Federal Highway Administration, HAWK signals can reduce pedestrian crashes by up to 69 percent.

In addition, Council Members will receive a status update on the progress of the La Paz Bridge and Roadway Widening project. This will cover the schedule for remaining work to complete the project, review the benefits of it and highlight some of the aesthetic features that will enhance the City’s original entryway.

With the 36th Annual Walk Against Drugs taking place on October 19, a team from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will give a presentation about this time-honored event designed to encourage youth to live drug-free lifestyles.

The Council will also proclaim October 6-12 as Fire Prevention Week to encourage all residents to check their smoke alarms and take personal steps to increase their safety from fire. According to reports, working smoke alarms in the home can reduce the risk of dying in a fire by more than half.

Council meetings are streamed live on the City’s website and air on Cox Channel 30 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Residents are encouraged to sign up for the City's eNewsletter and follow the City's official social media sites for the most accurate, up-to-date information.