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Council keeps Avanita Classica pilot, orders larger circles and signage after split neighborhood reaction
Summary
After mixed neighborhood testimony and data showing a 7–9 mph reduction in speeds during the pilot, the council approved modifications that increase the pilot circles’ diameter and add directional signage, red‑curb extensions and a 25 mph sign; staff will construct permanent improvements and continue analysis of speed‑hump alternatives.
The Rancho Palos Verdes City Council voted to keep and improve the traffic‑calming pilot on Avanita Classica after residents and the Traffic Safety Committee offered strongly divided views on the temporary circles.
Ramsey from Public Works reviewed the pilot’s background and consultant findings: the installed temporary circles reduced speeds in the corridor by roughly 7–9 miles per hour in post‑installation surveys. The Traffic Safety Committee recommended modifications to address driver circumvention and visibility.
Opponents said the diminutive pilot features allowed some drivers to slalom around the devices and created new sight‑line or bicycle conflicts. "Traffic circles are a hazard," one resident testified, citing blind curves and bicycle safety concerns. Supporters and committee members pointed to measured speed reductions, arguing the devices are cost‑effective and asked the council to enlarge and properly sign the circles rather than remove them.
Councilmembers weighed the tradeoffs. The city attorney and staff cautioned that removing a feature that demonstrably reduced recorded speeds could create a legal exposure if speeds and collisions rose again.
On roll call the council moved to implement the Traffic Safety Committee’s March recommendations: increase the circle diameter from 20 to 22 feet, add circular directional and one‑way signage, modify striping, install red curb at specified intersections, and add a southbound 25 mph speed limit sign; staff was authorized to award the construction contract (estimated at roughly $42,000–$44,000 for the circle improvements). Council also directed staff to continue evaluating speed‑hump alternatives and the detailed placement and design of any humps so that the city can compare options before further action.
Next steps: Public Works will execute the improvements and return to council with follow‑up monitoring and any proposals for additional speed humps; staff will also document costs and placement alternatives for council review.
