During the Laguna Beach City Council meeting on September 23, 2025, a significant discussion centered around the funding and design of critical sidewalk projects aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety. Council members expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with federal grant funding, particularly in light of recent federal policy changes that could affect transportation grants.

The council is currently considering a project that would close gaps in the sidewalk along Coast Highway, a vital route for pedestrians. The project has been allocated $5 million, but there are worries about whether this funding will remain secure given the shifting landscape of federal grants. Council members questioned the reliability of these funds, especially after recent statements from the current administration regarding cuts to bicycle and pedestrian funding.

City staff reassured the council that the grant in question, administered through the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), has not been pulled back and that they expect to receive confirmation on an extension by mid-October. This extension would allow the city to proceed with the design phase without the immediate pressure of construction deadlines.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted the urgency of the sidewalk project, with residents emphasizing the dangers posed by incomplete pedestrian pathways. One resident noted a tragic incident where a pedestrian was killed due to the lack of sidewalks in critical areas, underscoring the community's need for safe walking routes.

The council ultimately voted in favor of moving forward with the design work, recognizing that even if the federal funding were to be jeopardized, the project would still be "shelf ready" for future grant opportunities. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the city can respond quickly to any available funding while addressing the pressing safety concerns of its residents.

As the council prepares for the next steps, including potential adjustments to the project budget and timeline, the focus remains on enhancing pedestrian safety and ensuring that the community's needs are met effectively.