Council awards design task for Downtown Action Plan, asks for traffic study and public concept review on possible one‑way configuration

The Laguna Beach City Council approved a task order for design services to advance the Downtown Action Plan improvements along Ocean Avenue but added direction for additional public review and traffic analysis before implementing a one‑way street configuration.

Staff sought and received authorization to award a task order to KOA Corporation for project engineering and design work that includes sidewalk repairs, ADA accessibility improvements, tree‑well treatments, and a concept plan to create a more consistent streetscape between Forest Avenue and Coast Highway. The scope specifically calls for improving pedestrian flow near the channel area by widening sidewalks and addressing trip hazards associated with old concrete and tree wells.

During debate councilmembers and public commenters raised a separate design question: whether a one‑way conversion of Ocean Avenue (in part of downtown) should be studied and, if feasible, piloted. Council members agreed the one‑way idea required a data‑driven evaluation and public input. The council directed staff to complete a traffic and feasibility study for the one‑way option and to present concept designs and traffic results in a public concept review — potentially as a study session or joint meeting with the Planning Commission — prior to final design or construction.

Tom Perez, city engineer, summarized the design work to be done, including improving tree wells, adding consistent paving, and resolving ADA problems near the channel and Rasta Taco area. Staff emphasized multiple public meetings, a Planning Commission concept hearing and a design review hearing would be part of the process. Council unanimously approved the design award and the additional direction for traffic analysis and public concept review before finalizing any one‑way change.