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Council approves traffic simulation for Manhattan Beach Blvd/Pacific Ave intersection after debate
Summary
Council approved an amendment to add a traffic simulation study for the Manhattan Beach Blvd/Pacific Ave intersection to model alternatives before major construction, approving a roughly $20,000 contract overage by a 3–2 vote amid concerns about cost versus staff capability.
The Manhattan Beach City Council voted 3–2 to add a traffic simulation (SIM) analysis to a contract for improvements at the Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Pacific Avenue intersection.
Acting Public Works staff and the acting city engineer told council the simulation would model existing conditions and up to three proposed alternatives to determine which configuration would operate most efficiently, noting four accidents at the intersection over five years. The additional work requires an overage of approximately $20,000 in the existing contract.
Councilmember Franklin and another councilmember said the cost was excessive for what they viewed as a relatively straightforward intersection; proponents argued the simulation is inexpensive insurance before committing roughly $500,000 to construction. “This $20,000 is basically insurance to us to make sure that we get the right solution because we're going to spend a half‑million on this intersection,” the traffic engineer said.
The motion to approve the amendment passed 3–2; two council members recorded 'no' votes citing concerns about the cost and whether in‑house schematics previously used would suffice.
What happens next: Staff will proceed with the simulation work and return with analysis to inform final design selection and construction documents.
Speakers quoted are from the council transcript and staff presentation.
