Residents demand action on Prospect Frontage Road traffic and safety concerns

The Redondo Beach City Council convened on June 3, 2025, to address pressing community concerns, particularly those affecting residents on Prospect Frontage Road. The meeting was marked by discussions on two critical Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs) that aim to enhance safety and traffic management in the area.

The first item of discussion focused on CIP BRR 3, which involves the construction of a sound wall. Residents expressed concerns about the wall's proposed height of 24 feet, which exceeds the California Highway Manual's recommended specifications of 6 to 14 feet. This discrepancy raised questions about the project's cost, which was reported to be significantly inflated due to erroneous estimations. The council acknowledged the need for a reassessment of the project to ensure it meets safety standards and budgetary constraints.

The second item, CIP BRR 22, addressed traffic issues on Prospect Frontage Road, which has been described as confusing and hazardous due to its one-way and two-way sections. Residents reported frequent illegal U-turns and reckless driving, prompting calls for traffic calming measures. The Public Works and Sustainability Commission proposed using paint to implement these measures, which residents supported as a practical solution.

Community members, including long-time residents Darryl Boyd and Julie Hernandez, voiced their frustrations regarding the lack of maintenance and safety measures on North Prospect Avenue. Boyd highlighted the deterioration of the median and the increase in reckless driving, while Hernandez emphasized the need for immediate action to address safety concerns, particularly for families living in the area. Both residents expressed disappointment over the perceived neglect from city officials and called for more substantial improvements, including the installation of barriers to enhance safety.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to revisit the discussed projects and address the community's concerns more effectively. Residents left with a sense of urgency for action, underscoring the importance of responsive governance in maintaining community safety and well-being.