The recent government meeting highlighted critical infrastructure issues in Rancho Palos Verdes, particularly concerning the ongoing repairs and safety measures on Palos Verdes Drive South. City officials reported that the road has required repairs approximately three to four times a year, but the frequency has increased to every two to three weeks due to severe fissures and damage, which pose risks to cyclists and motorcyclists. To mitigate these hazards, the city has temporarily prohibited two-wheeled vehicles from the affected stretch of road.
Officials emphasized the importance of addressing the sanitary sewer trunk line that serves not only Rancho Palos Verdes but also the broader peninsula. Continuous monitoring and repairs are being prioritized to maintain road safety and functionality. A significant repair project is scheduled for later this summer, utilizing innovative geofoam materials to enhance the road's resilience against subsidence.
In addition to road repairs, the city is tackling landslide issues, particularly in the Portuguese Bend area. A comprehensive landslide remediation project is underway, focusing on extracting underground water to stabilize the ground. This initiative includes filling fissures, installing drainage systems, and deploying directional dewatering wells, with an estimated total cost of $33 million. The city has secured federal and state grants to support these efforts.
Traffic flow improvements on Western Avenue were also discussed, with plans to unify traffic signal operations across multiple agencies to enhance efficiency. The city is implementing near real-time traffic counting technology to optimize signal timing and reduce congestion. A beautification project along Western Avenue is in the works, which will include landscaping and upgraded bus shelters.
Other initiatives mentioned include a stormwater management project in partnership with neighboring cities, aimed at capturing and treating stormwater, and ongoing traffic calming measures to address community concerns. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the city's efforts to improve telecommunications infrastructure through the installation of small wireless facilities.
Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing pressing infrastructure challenges while enhancing public safety and community quality of life.