Residents press commission for safer walkability on Artesia Boulevard, urge completion of bus-stop curb painting

During general public comment, several longtime residents urged the commission to accelerate safety improvements on Artesia Boulevard and to finish a previously approved curb-painting at a Prospect Avenue bus stop.

Market and walkability concerns: Jim Mueller, who introduced work by a new community nonprofit sponsoring a weekly public market at Artesia and Green Lane, said surveys show people want a more walkable Artesia but cited speeding traffic, narrow sidewalks and limited crossings that keep pedestrians away. "How safe will people feel?" he asked, urging the commission to elevate the issue to council and strategic planning.

Near-miss testimony and curb-painting hold: Steve Hague recounted near-miss incidents involving an e-bike and delivery drivers and warned that slowing Artesia could push traffic into nearby residential streets. Mark Nelson said a unique bus stop near the Health District still needs a painted curb that the commission approved last year but has not been completed; staff said the city attorney and HR placed a hold because of an ADA accommodation request related to the bus stop, and public works will seek clarification.

What happens next: Commissioners acknowledged resident concerns and requested staff seek more detail from the city attorney on the ADA hold affecting the curb painting. The commission also indicated it can elevate Artesia Boulevard safety topics to the city council or strategic planning process if appropriate.