CC SR 20250805 01 - Staff Report- PVDE Ganado Traffic UpdateCITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 08/05/2025
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA TITLE:
Consideration to receive a status report on recommended traffic measures for Palos
Verdes Drive East between Crest Road and Palos Verdes Drive South.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1)Receive and file a status report on the City Council approved traffic measures
for Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE) between Crest Road and Palos Verdes
Drive South (PVDS);
(2)Adopt Resolution No. 2025-__, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES APPROVING THE ENGINEERING
TRAFFIC STUDY RECOMMENDATION AND ESTABLISHING A SPEED
LIMIT of 35 MPH FOR THE SEGMENT OF PALOS VERDES DRIVE EAST
(PVDE) BETWEEN CREST ROAD AND PALOS VERDES DRIVE SOUTH
(PVDS).
(3)Direct Staff to conduct an after-action study one year after implementation of
the traffic measures and speed limit change(s) for the City Council’s review to
determine whether additional measures should be considered;
(4)Receive and file an update on the 10-day Enforcement Plan; and,
(5)Receive and file the proposed Speed Management Plan and direct staff to
provide the City Council Public Safety Subcommittee with quarterly updates.
FISCAL IMPACT: The estimated total cost of implementing the change to the speed
limit is included in the $50,000 cost allocated for the implementation
of the recommended traffic sign upgrades previously approved by
the City Council at its May 20, 2025 meeting.
The Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 Citywide Traffic Calming Program will
be used to fund the recommended traffic sign upgrades.
The cost for future enforcement will be carried out utilizing the scope
of the existing contract budget and, when deemed necessary,
supplemental overtime which is included in the FY 2025-26 adopted
budget in the amount of $70,000. Supplemental overtime is generally
used for traffic enforcement, crime suppression, and other special
services and programs requested by the City. VR
Amount Budgeted: $200,000
Additional Appropriation: None
Account Number(s): 220-400-8846-8802
(Measure R–Traffic Calming-Other Improvements) VR
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ORIGINATED BY: Noel Casil, PE, TE, PTOE, Senior Engineer NVC
Jennifer Schmid, Public Safety Manager JS
REVIEWED BY: Deanna Fraley, PE, Principal Engineer
Ramzi Awwad, Public Works Director
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A.Resolution No. 2025-__ Establishing a 35 MPH Speed Limit for PVDE
from Crest Road to PVDS (page A-1)
B.GTS Traffic Safety Study: Palos Verdes Drive East and Ganado Drive –
March 2025 (page B-1)
C.May 20, 2025 City Council Staff Report (Page C-1)
D.July 1, 2025 City Council Staff Report (page D-1)
E.January 27, 2025 Traffic Safety Committee Staff Report (page E-1)
F.July 2025 Community Notification Letter: PVDE from Crest Rd to PVDS
Speed Limit (page F-1)
BACKGROUND:
On November 12, 2023, Staff received a request from the Mediterrania Homeowners
Association (HOA) to conduct a traffic study in response to two traffic collisions involving
bicyclists, as well as other vehicle crashes at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive East
(PVDE) and Ganado Drive, and along the associated segment of PVDE from Crest Road
(commonly known as Crest Road East) to Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS).
In response to the HOA’s traffic concerns, the City retained a traffic engineering firm,
General Technologies and Solutions (GTS), to prepare a traffic study and develop
recommendations for PVDE at and around Ganado Drive (Attachment B). The study
included a review of residents’ (HOA) complaints, existing conditions (including site
visits), traffic speed, sight distance, collision data, and other factors. The study area is
shown in Figure 1 on the following page.
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Figure 1- Study Area Map
Based on the GTS traffic study, Staff presented recommendations to the Traffic Safety
Committee (TSC) on January 27, 2025 (Attachment E). The TSC endorsed the Staff
recommendations, and Staff subsequently presented the recommendations to the City
Council on May 20, 2025 (Attachment C). After considering the information presented,
including public testimony, the City Council, on a 4-1 vote (Councilmember Perestam
dissenting), moved to:
1. Remove Recommendation No. 1 to approve the traffic study recommendations
and establish a speed limit of 35 MPH for PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS;
2.Replace the existing landscaping in the median between PVDE and the spur road
with slow growing plantings that will be maintained at a maximum heigh of 30
inches as measured from the top of the median curb;
3. Move the stop bar on Ganado Drive to the flowline of PVDE;
4.Upgrade the signs and pavement markings on PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS
based on the GTS Traffic Study with modifications as deemed appropriate by the
Public Works Director;
5. Approve 5 foot-wide bicycle lanes on PVDE from Crest Road to Vista Del Mar as
part of the next PVDE roadway slurry sealing/re-paving Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) project;
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6.Prioritize traffic law enforcement on PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS to the
extent allowable by enforcement resources and competing priorities;
7.Direct Staff to return in 30 days after implementation of the traffic law enforcement
and other measures and with data on their efficacy for the City Council’s review to
determine whether additional measures should be implemented including reducing
speed limits; and
8.Direct Staff to bring the report back to the City Council in 60 days to revisit and to
vote on reducing the speed limit.
Leading up to and during the City Council meeting, the City received a notable volume of
public comments expressing concerns about excessive vehicle speeds, noise, near-miss
vehicle incidents, and the overall behavior of motorists along the roadway. Community
members emphasized that the combination of recreational drivers and scenic views,
particularly in the area known as the “Switchbacks,” invites undesired motorist behavior
including speeding that warrants a response by the City.
In light of these concerns, the City Council deferred consideration adjusting the speed
limit on PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS and directed staff to prioritize enhanced
traffic law enforcement to the extent allowable using existing law enforcement resources
with the Lomita Sheriff Station including budgeted overtime.
The City Council directed staff to return in approximately 30 days (by July 1, 2025) with
data on the efficacy of that enforcement program to determine if additional measures
should be implemented to further address speeding in partnership with the Lomita
Sheriff’s Station. The intent of this decision was to increase law enforcement presence to
proactively deter the potential for speeding and undesired motorist behavior before
revisiting any permanent speed limit changes. The City Council also directed Staff to
return in 60 days (by August 5, 2025) to revisit the recommendation to establish a speed
limit of 35 miles per hour.
On July 1, 2025, the City Council received a status report on the Enforcement Program
which was in direct response to community and City Council concerns with speeding
along PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS (Attachment D). Additional details on the
result of that Program are below in the Discussion section.
Following the initial 10-day enforcement, efforts continued through June supported by
dedicated motor and traffic units, as well as supplemental overtime deployments during
peak activity periods. Patrols continued to issue citations for various violations. The scenic
lookouts were reopened on June 23, 2025, with normal parking restrictions reinstated per
§12.16.030 of the Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code (RPVMC). The Public Works
Department is currently evaluating long term improvements such as parking stall striping
and controlled ingress/egress to enhance safety. Public outreach was conducted
throughout the 30-day period via social media and the City Manager’s weekly report,
reinforcing traffic safety messaging and ensuring transparency with residents. Data from
the June enforcement activities is presented later in this report.
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DISCUSSION:
Status of the May 20 Council-Approved Traffic Measures
Landscape Replacement
Under the City Manager’s contracting authority of $25,000 per year per vendor, the City
entered into a professional services agreement with Nuvis Landscape Architecture, Inc.
(Nuvis) to develop a landscaping plan to replace the existing landscaping in the median
between PVDE and the spur road at Ganado Drive. The landscaping plan will detail the
specific types and locations of slow-growing plants proposed for installation and
maintenance at a height of no more than 30 inches from the top of the curb. The
landscape plan will be prepared by Nuvis with GTS’ input, utilizing best engineering and
landscaping practices, in consultation with the Mediterranea HOA.
Stop Bar Relocation
Stop Bar Relocation - Moving the Stop bar on Ganado Drive to the edge of the PVDE
right-turn lane to increase the sight distance at the intersection for eastbound (Ganado
Drive) is complete.
Sign and Pavement Marking Updates
Signs have been updated per the GTS Traffic Study recommendations.
Speed Feedback Signs that display a motorist’s current speed in comparison to the speed
limit have been ordered and delivery is scheduled for the first week of August. The final
location of the speed feedback signs will be coordinated with the HOA and approved by
a Traffic Engineer.
Turn-outs along Switchbacks
In addition to the signage and pavement markings described above, Staff are currently
evaluating the installation of parking stalls for the PVDE lookout areas to replace the
informal parking currently in place.
Bicycle Lanes on PVDE from Crest Road to Vista Del Mar
The bicycle lanes, which will separate bicyclists from motor vehicles to reduce conflicts
between the two, will be installed as part of the next PVDE roadway slurry sealing/re-
paving CIP project in order to avoid re-work when the slurry sealing/re-paving project for
PVDE is implemented. The engineered design plans are anticipated to be completed by
the end of 2025 to solicit bids in early 2026 and begin construction the spring of 2026.
Speed Limit Modifications along PVDE
During the May 20, 2025 City Council meeting, Staff recommended reducing the speed
limit from the existing 40 mph down to 35 mph for the segment of PVDE from PVDS to
Ganado Drive and maintaining the speed limit of 35 mph for the segment of PVDE
between Ganado Drive to Crest Road, as recommended in the GTS traffic study.
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Staff informed the City Council that they could further reduce the speed limit by 5 mph to
30 mph for the entire subject section of PVDE; however, Staff recommended first
installing the traffic calming measures with a reduction of 5 mph from Ganado Drive to
PVDS, followed by an after-action study in one year before considering a further
reduction.
Some residents advocated for lowering the speed limit to 30 mph; however, Staff
continues to recommend that the City Council consider whether a 10 mph reduction in
the posted speed would result in poor speed compliance and a greater variation in speeds
among drivers that could create unintended consequences. Furthermore, the
recommended 35 mph speed limit aligns with the City’s incremental approach in
addressing traffic calming concerns throughout the City.
Staff therefore recommend that the City Council adopt a resolution establishing a speed
limit of 35 miles per hour for PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS (Attachment A) as
recommended in the GTS traffic study. Additionally, Staff recommend that the City
Council direct Staff to conduct an after-action study one year after implementation of the
traffic measures and speed limit change(s) for the City Council’s review to determine
whether additional measures should be considered.
Traffic Enforcement Update
During the July 1, 2025 City Council meeting, the Public Safety Division provided a status
report on the Lomita Sheriff Station’s 10-day Supplemental Enhanced Traffic
Enforcement Program along PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS (Attachment D). The
Program was comprised of traffic enforcement and public outreach to deter unsafe driving
behaviors including speeding, as summarized below.
Enforcement Citation Data
On May 22, 2025, the Lomita Sheriff’s Station launched a 30-day targeted enforcement
and public safety initiative. The first phase included a concentrated 10-day enforcement
surge along the Switchbacks, during which deputies conducted 186 patrols and issued
110 citations, of which 78 which were for speeding (see graph on the following page).
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Chart 1- PVDE Switchbacks 10-Day Enforcement
*On Friday, May 30, no formal traffic enforcement was conducted due to other law enforcement activity
and resources needed in different areas of the City
On July 1, 2025, Councilmembers Perestam and Lewis requested data on the city of
origin for drivers who were cited along the Switchbacks. The intent of this data was to
understand how enforcement and educational efforts could be utilized for enhanced
outcomes and changes in driver behavior.
During the 30-day enforcement period, a total of 141 citations were issued including the
110 citations from the 10-day enforcement surge. Due to limited resources, the Lomita
Sheriff’s Station provided a citywide summary of all citations issued, including associated
driver zip code data, not limited solely to the Switchbacks. While this information offers
general indication of driver residency, it is based on available vehicle and license
information and may contain a margin of error due to reporting limitations for the targeted
Switchback area. According to the data, it is estimated that:
•48% of cited drivers are from the Palos Verdes Peninsula:
o Rancho Palos Verdes (RPV) accounted for 54 citations
o Palos Verdes Peninsula (RHE, RH, PVE) accounted for 14 citations
•19% of cited drivers are from San Pedro, accounting for 27 citations.
o Given San Pedro’s proximity to Rancho Palos Verdes, residents from San
Pedro could also be considered locals. If combined with the Palos Verdes
Peninsula residents, approximately 67% of cited drivers will have been
from this region.
•33% of cited drivers are from all other jurisdictions, accounting for 46 citations.
Speed Management Plan
The zip code data indicates that citations were generally 2/3rds local residents (Rancho
Palos Verdes, Peninsula, and San Pedro) and 1/3 visitors. Based on this data, staff
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intends to implement a Speed Management Plan that utilizes different tools that
specifically target locals and visitors to raise awareness of driving conditions along this
stretch of roadway, speed limits, traffic enforcement, loud noise, and cruising/road racing,
as described below.
In developing the Speed Management Plan, traffic engineers generally utilize
“engineering, enforcement, and education” to address driver behavior. At the May 20,
2025 meeting, and as discussed earlier in this report, engineering measures
recommended by GTS have already been or are in the process of being implemented.
The measures also include studying the lookouts along the Switchbacks to minimize
vehicles and motorcycles from congregating and engaging in undesired driving behavior
such racing. Thus, enforcement and education make up the proposed Speed
Management Plan, as discussed below.
Enforcement
The Lomita Sheriff’s Station has strategically analyzed citation data to identify the most
effective days and times for traffic enforcement activity. This data-driven approach allows
for targeted enforcement during peak violation periods, maximizing visibility and impact.
The enforcement days and times will rotate on a case-by-case basis, and will begin being
implemented, at the direction of the Captain, if accepted by the City Council this evening.
The City’s assigned motor deputy and traffic unit will deploy enforcement efforts during
these identified periods by utilizing the dedicated minutes outlined in the municipal law
enforcement services contract. As such, these enforcement efforts will be carried out at
no additional cost to the City, as they fall within the scope of the existing contract budget.
Additionally, when a high-impact day or time has been identified, in collaboration with the
Lomita Station, the City will offer supplemental overtime to further enhance enforcement
presence. It is important to note that this overtime is voluntary and dependent upon deputy
availability. The cost for supplemental overtime has been budgeted and approved for FY
2025-26 as noted under the Fiscal Impact Analysis.
To preserve the effectiveness and integrity of these targeted operations, the detailed
schedule and strategy will not be disclosed to the general public. However, this
information will be shared with the City Council Public Safety Committee, to ensure
transparency and informed oversight within appropriate channels.
Public Education
As part of the “education” component of the Speed Management Plan, the City is
prioritizing community education to encourage safer driving behavior throughout Rancho
Palos Verdes including the Switchbacks. These outreach efforts aim to engage not only
local residents, but also regional drivers who frequently travel through City and may be
unfamiliar with speed limits and conditions along PVDE. Staff will utilize targeted outreach
and education measured to raise awareness for the various demographics utilizing the
Switchbacks on speed management and to achieve an improved voluntary compliance
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with speed limits as a complement to LASD traffic enforcement efforts. These measures
include:
•Posted speed limits and speed feedback signs
•Social media and other media outreach:
o Dangers of reckless driving
o Zero tolerance for loud exhaust
o Ongoing enforcement efforts in the City and PVDE including the use of
supplemental LASD hours and Radar technology to issue citations
•Portable message board signs at key points along PVDE to serve as high
visibility reminders about slowing down, enforcement presence, and the
potential for citations.
o Due to the City’s existing message boards currently being used along
Palos Verdes Drive South for landslide related messaging, additional
boards would need to be rented at a cost of approximately $1,100 per
month per board.
•Deployment of the Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) trailer that
includes a message board
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Public Notification
To ensure that residents are aware of the City Council’s discussion on the speed limit for
PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS, as well as the Enforcement Plan, Staff sent a
courtesy notification (Attachment F) to residents in the RPV Estates, Crestmount
Community, Mira Catalina, Mediterrania, San Ramon, Seacliff Hilltop, and El Prado
Estates HOAs; as well as others not in HOAs, that this item will be discussed at tonight’s
meeting.
Public Comments
At this time, the City has not received any public comments. Comments received after
publishing this staff report will be provided to the City Council for consideration as late
correspondence.
CONCLUSION:
Staff recommends City Council adopt a resolution establishing a speed limit of 35 miles
per hour for PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS as recommended in the GTS traffic
study, direct Staff to conduct an after-action study one year after the implementation of
traffic measures and speed limit change(s) for the City Council’s future consideration, and
receive and file a report on future traffic enforcement for PVDE in the study area.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available for
the City Council’s consideration:
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1.Do not make any changes to the speed limit for PVDE between Crest Road and
PVDS and do not direct Staff to conduct an after-action study of traffic
measures.
2. Consider retaining or a different speed limit for PVDE between Crest Road and
PVDS.
3.Identify other measures for the Speed Management Plan
4.Take other action as deemed appropriate.
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Attachment A
Resolution No. 2025-
A-1
RESOLUTION NO. 2025- ___
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES APPROVING
THE ENGINEERING TRAFFIC STUDY
RECOMMENDATION AND ESTABLISHING A SPEED
LIMIT of 35MPH FOR THE SEGMENT OF PALOS
VERDES DRIVE EAST (PVDE) BETWEEN CREST
ROAD AND PALOS VERDES DRIVE SOUTH (PVDS).
WHEREAS, in accordance with the requirements of Sections 22358.4, 22407 and
40802 of the California Vehicle Code, an engineering and traffic survey was conducted
on the segment of Palos Verdes Drive East between Crest Road and Palos Verdes Drive
South within the City by the City's Consulting Traffic Engineer, General Technologies
Solutions (GTS) in accordance with the requirements of the California Vehicle Code,
including Section 627 of said Code; and
WHEREAS, the report and recommendations of the City's Consulting Traffic
Engineer and the speed surveys that were conducted were presented for review and
concurrence by the City's Traffic Safety Committee, which has recommended approval
thereof to the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the report and recommendations of the City's Consulting Traffic
Engineer and the speed surveys that were conducted by the Traffic Engineer for the street
segments of Palos Verdes Drive East that are set forth in Attachment B: GTS Traffic
Safety Study: Palos Verdes Drive East and Ganado Drive – Updated March 2025, which
is attached hereto as and incorporated herein by this reference, were presented for review
and approval by the City Council of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes at a duly noticed
meeting thereof on May 20, 2025 and the discussion on the speed limit was continued to
a date uncertain; and
WHEREAS, it has been determined that the establishment of speed limits that are
reasonable and safe will facilitate the orderly movement of vehicular traffic within the City;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The following speed limit is hereby established on the following street
segments in accordance with Section 15.32.010 and 15.32.020 of the City of Rancho
Palos Verdes Traffic Ordinance adopted pursuant to Section 10.04.010 of the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code:
ENGINEERING TRAFFIC STUDY RECOMMENDATIONS
No. Street From To Existing New Change
1 PALOS VERDES DR E CREST RD GANADO DR 35 35 0
2 PALOS VERDES DR E GANADO DR PALOS VERDES DR S 40 35 -5
A-2
Section 2. All previous resolutions and orders establishing speed limits on the
segment of Palos Verdes Drive East between Crest Road and Palos Verdes Drive South
are hereby amended to reflect the recommended speed limits.
Section 3. The City Clerk is hereby ordered to file certified copies of this resolution
with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office.
Section 4. The speed limits established in Section 1 of this resolution shall
become effective upon posting of the speed limit signs.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council
of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, California, on this 5th day of August, 2025.
David Bradley, Mayor
ATTEST:
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
I, Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Resolution No. 2025-__, was duly and regularly passed and adopted by the
said City Council at a regular meeting thereof held on August 5, 2025.
________________________________
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
A-3
Traffic Safety Study
PALOS VERDES DRIVE EAST
AND GANADO DRIVE
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Prepared for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Updated – April 2025
Prepared by:
11900 W Olympic Blvd, Suite 450
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Phone: 213 267 2332
www.gentecsol.com
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Palos Verdes Drive East / Ganado Drive Traffic Safety Study - Updated April 2025
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Executive Summary
This traffic study investigates safety concerns at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive
East and Ganado Drive, and along the associated segment of Palos Verdes Drive East
from Crest Road to Palos Verdes Drive South, in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. The
City received a request from the Mediterrania HOA to conduct a traffic study in response
to two collisions involving bicyclists as well as other vehicles crashes. The traffic study
includes a review of existing conditions, analysis of traffic volumes and speeds, sight
distance analysis, and a collision history review. This study also incorporates
recommendations from a previous study of the area that was carried out in 2023. The
following recommendations are presented in the final section:
1. Trim vegetation and consider tree removal
2. Move the Ganado drive STOP bar forward
3. Replace / upgrade signage
4. Stripe wider edge lines
5. Restripe PVDE and add bike lanes
6. Reduce the speed limit
Contents
Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 2
1. Background .................................................................................................................. 3
2. Existing Conditions ....................................................................................................... 4
2a. Roadway Geometry ................................................................................................ 4
2b. Traffic Volumes and Speeds ................................................................................... 7
2c. Sight Distance Analysis ......................................................................................... 10
2d. Road Curvature and Signage ................................................................................ 10
3. Collision History ......................................................................................................... 13
3.1. Road Segment Collision Rates ............................................................................ 14
3.2. Intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive .............................................................. 15
3.3. Intersection Collision Rates .................................................................................. 16
4. Discussion .................................................................................................................. 18
4.1. Sight Distance Analysis........................................................................................ 18
4.2. Bicycle-Vehicle Conflicts ...................................................................................... 18
4.3. Safety on Southbound PVDE approaching Ganado Drive .................................... 18
4.4. Safety of Switchbacks on PVDE - South of Ganado Drive ................................... 18
5. Recommendations ..................................................................................................... 19
5.1. Trim Vegetation (0-1 years) ................................................................................. 19
5.2. Replace / Upgrade Signage (0-1 years) ............................................................... 19
5.3. Wider edge lines (0-1 years) ................................................................................ 22
5.4. Restripe PVDE and add bike lanes (1-3 years) .................................................... 22
5.5. Reduced Speed Limit ........................................................................................... 25
5.6. Other Safety Countermeasures ............................................................................ 25
6. References ................................................................................................................. 25
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Palos Verdes Drive East / Ganado Drive Traffic Safety Study - Updated April 2025
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1. Background
In November 2023, the City received an urgent request from the Board of Directors of the
Mediterrania HOA to conduct a traffic study at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive East
(PVDE) and Ganado Drive. Members cited two major automobile vs. bicycle collisions that
occurred within a 60-day period and four recent fatalities. Safety concerns are perceived
to be exacerbated by a lack of traffic control and the lack of visibility along the switchbacks
on PVDE. While the presence of a Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) deputy on the
road was reported to improve driver behavior, the deputy retired and has not been replaced.
This memo examines existing conditions and collision history and presents draft
recommendations for improving safety for all modes of transportation within the study area,
which spans from Crest Road to Palos Verdes Drive South. The study area is shown in
Exhibit 1.
A previous study of this area, completed in April 2023, analyzed collisions on the same
segment of PVDE and recommended modifications to the existing signage as well as other
safety countermeasures. The recommendations of that study are incorporated into the
present study.
Exhibit 1. Study Area
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2. Existing Conditions
The study area is the intersection of Ganado Drive and PVDE, along with the 1.94-mile
road segment of Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE) between Crest Road and the intersection
with Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS).
2a. Roadway Geometry
PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS
The 1.94-mile section of PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS has steep topography, with an
elevation change of about 525 feet from Crest Road to PVDS, and several sharp turns,
including 3 “hairpin” bends, each with a radius of about 120 feet. PVDE is classified as a
major road and arterial in the RPV General Plan.
The overall direction of travel from Crest Road to PVDS is from north to south. Because of
the curves in the road, there are some sections where these directions of travel become
east-west, and even south-north. However, to avoid confusion, this study refers to the
overall northbound (uphill) direction as “north” and the southbound (downhill) direction as
“south”, even though the orientation of some sections of the road may not match this
description.
The posted speed limits are 35 mph from Crest Road to Ganado Drive, and 40 mph from
Ganado Drive to PVDS. The 2021 Engineering and Traffic Survey recommended retaining
these existing speed limits.
The intersections at each end of the study are controlled by traffic signals, while the other
intersections (Casalina Drive, Ganado Drive, and Vista Del Mar) are controlled by stop
signs for the minor streets.
The roadway cross-section typology varies throughout the study area and can be generally
described as follows:
• Segment 1: From Crest Road south to Vista Del Mar (Segment 1 in Exhibit 2),
PVDE has four travel lanes (two in each direction) and a shoulder on the northbound
(uphill) side. The curb-to-curb street width varies between 52 and 82 feet, the travel
lanes are 11 feet wide through most of this section, and the shoulder width varies
between 4 and 5 feet. For most of this section, two of the lanes are through lanes
(one in each direction) and the other two are merging or turning lanes (one in each
direction). There are dedicated right and left turn lanes on PVDE at the intersections
with Crest Road, Casalina Drive, and Ganado Drive. There is a dedicated left turn
lane for Vista Del Mar.
• Segment 2: From 150 feet south of Vista Del Mar to 300 feet north of Palos Verdes
Drive South (Segment 2 in Exhibit 2), PVDE is a 2-lane road with width between 28
and 34 feet. There is a shoulder on each side, of varying width. This area contains
the three aforementioned “hairpin” turns with sharp 120-foot turns.
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• Segment 3: For the final 300 feet of PVDE approaching PVDS, the roadway widens
to accommodate right- and left-turn lanes and a striped median. On this section
there is a 90-degree turn.
• There are five pull-off areas, with various parking regulations posted, as shown in
Exhibit 2.
Exhibit 2. Road segments and pull-off areas
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Intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive
Ganado Drive is a local residential street in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. It is
approximately 1.2 miles long and connects from Crest Road to PVDE. The curb-to-curb
width is between 36 and 38 feet along most of the road, and 50 feet at the intersection with
PVDE. The street is striped with a yellow dashed centerline, and a solid yellow line and
dedicated right- and left-turn lanes at the intersection with PVDE. The posted speed limit
is 25 miles per hour. The street has a slight grade, with approximately 46 feet of elevation
gain from Floweridge Drive to PVDE, but is flat at the intersection.
An aerial view of the study intersection is shown in Exhibit 3. The intersection is three-way
and includes a 350-foot-long residential spur of PVDE that is separated from the main road
by a 12-foot tree-lined buffer and ends in a cul-de-sac. The spur provides access to 6
single-family homes. There is a red curb along the east side of the spur for approximately
250 feet north of the intersection with Ganado Drive. Due to the minimal buffer between
the spur and the main road, traffic looking to turn left from the spur onto PVDE have minimal
space to fully enter the turn lanes on Ganado Drive before touching the stop bars.
As mentioned above, the speed limit on PVDE changes at the intersection, decreasing to
35 mph for northbound traffic and increasing to 40 mph for southbound traffic. The
intersection is served by dedicated left- and right-turn lanes on PVDE. In the vicinity of the
intersection, PVDE has an approximately 10% slope.
Exhibit 3. Aerial view of the intersection (source: NearMap)
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2b. Traffic Volumes and Speeds
Location 1: South of Ganado Drive
Speed data and vehicle counts for PVDE were collected just south of the intersection with
Vista del Mar on the morning of a typical weekday (Tuesday, June 4, 2024) from 9:45 AM
to 10:34 AM, collecting a data sample of 101 vehicles. The data collection was repeated
on a typical Saturday (September 21, 2024) from 11:25 AM to 12:05 PM, collecting a data
sample of 100 vehicles. The posted speed limit in this area is 40 mph. Speeds were
collected using radar for traffic traveling in both the northbound (NB) and southbound (SB)
directions. Weather conditions at both times of data collection were clear, and the roadway
was in good condition and dry.
During the weekday collection, the study area saw a total of 101 vehicles, with 50 vehicles
traveling NB and 51 vehicles traveling SB. For NB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was
calculated at 39.7 mph. For SB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was calculated at 36.4
mph. The combined 85th percentile speed was 38.2 mph. Weekday vehicle counts by
direction and speed are shown in Exhibit 4.
During the weekend collection, the study area saw a total of 100 vehicles, with 50 vehicles
traveling NB and 50 vehicles traveling SB. For NB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was 40
mph. For SB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was 37.6 mph. The combined 85th percentile
speed was 39 mph. Weekend vehicle counts by direction and speed are shown in Exhibit
5.
Location 2: North of Ganado Drive
To measure vehicles speeds on PVDE north of Ganado Drive, additional speed data and
vehicle counts were collected on PVDE between Crest Road and Ganado Drive on a typical
weekday in January 2025. The data collection was carried out from 12:00 to 12:35 PM on
Wednesday, January 9, collecting a data sample of 103 vehicles. The posted speed limit
in this area is 35 mph. During this survey, the northbound 85th percentile speed was
measured at 35.1 mph, the southbound 85th percentile speed was measured at 37.4 mph,
and the combined 85th percentile speed was measured at 36.3 mph. Weekday vehicle
counts by direction and speed are shown in Exhibit 6.
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Exhibit 4. Weekday vehicle speeds and counts on PVDE at Vista del Mar
Exhibit 5. Weekend vehicle speeds and counts on PVDE at Vista del Mar
14
8
21
7
21
16
11
3
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Under 30 mph 30-34 mph 35-39 mph 40+ mph
NB Weekday SB Weekday
2
15
22
117
26 12
5
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
Under 30 mph 30-34 mph 35-39 mph 40+ mph
NB Weekend SB Weekend
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Exhibit 6. Weekday vehicle speeds and counts on PVDE between Crest and Ganado
It should be noted that the speeds on this section measured in the 2021 Engineering and
Traffic Survey were higher, but the locations of measurement were different. The survey
showed the following results:
• For the section of PVDE between Ganado Dr and Diamonte Ln, the 85th-percentile
speed was 40 mph. Speed data were collected 1000 feet east of Diamonte Lane,
at a location north of Crest Road and outside the present study area.
• For the section of PVDE between Ganado Dr and PVDS, the 85th-percentile speed
was 42 mph. Speed data were collected 2,640 feet east of PVDS, immediately
south of the switchback area.
23
17
9
3
21
15
8
7
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
Under 30 mph 30-34 mph 35-39 mph 40+ mph
NB Weekday SB Weekday
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2c. Sight Distance Analysis
GTS conducted a field visit to the Ganado Drive and PVDE intersection on July 14, 2024.
A sight distance analysis was conducted at the intersection to assess sight distances for
eastbound left turns from Ganado Drive onto PVDE. This analysis requires measurement
of sight distances looking north (viewing southbound traffic) along PVDE from the left turn
lane of the Ganado Drive approach to the intersection. Photos from the sight distance
analysis with cones placed at a 300-foot distance are shown below in Exhibit 8 and Exhibit
7, which include zoomed-in views with the cone placement indicated. PVDE slopes
downhill in the southbound direction. Per the Caltrans Highway Design Manual, 7th edition
(Table 201.1), the required sight distance at a speed of 35 mph on a downhill stretch is 300
feet (250 feet plus 20% to account for downhill). At a speed of 40 mph, the required sight
distance increases to 360 feet (300 feet plus 20% to account for downhill). Since the
measured 85th-percentile speed in the southbound direction falls approximately midway
between these speeds (37.6 mph), the required sight distance is 330 feet.
It was found that when a vehicle is stopped behind the STOP bar, parked vehicles on the
west side of the spur road could block the view of southbound traffic on PVDE. Therefore,
this study recommends moving the STOP bar forward to the flow line to avoid having to
consider any additional parking restrictions on the spur road. With the STOP bar moved
forward, the sight distance exceeded 330 feet when viewing southbound traffic. The sight
distances with the stop bar moved forward to the flow line are shown in Exhibit 9.
The trees in the buffer between PVDE and the spur may partially obstruct the view. Foliage
and plants should be regularly trimmed and maintained to ensure sight distance is not
impeded.
Sight distance looking south (viewing northbound traffic) on PVDE was also verified and is
unobstructed for the required distance of 300 feet.
2d. Road Curvature and Signage
A study of the road curvature and existing speed advisory signs was carried out in the
switchbacks area of PVDE in September 2024 using a ball-bank indicator. Based on the
findings, no changes are recommended to the existing speed advisory signage.
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Exhibit 7. 300' sight distance – behind stop bar
Exhibit 8. 300' sight distance – entering intersection
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Exhibit 9. Sight distance triangles (with STOP bar relocated forward)
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3. Collision History
Collision data for the study area were collected by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s
Department and provided to GTS by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Data were examined
covering a 5-year period between 4/1/2019 and 3/31/2024.
There were 31 collisions within the 1.94-mile segment of PVDE during this time period in
the data available. Of these collisions, 3 occurred at the Ganado Drive and PVDE
intersection, with all 3 resulting in injury. The following details were found in the collision
data:
• Collision severity: 12 collisions resulted in Property Damage Only (39%); 4 Complaint of
Pain (13%); 6 Other Visible Injury (19%); 8 Severe Injury (26%); and 1 Fatality (3%). Of the
Severe Injury collisions, 3 involved motorcyclists and 2 involved bicyclists. The fatal collision
was a head-on collision between two passenger cars where one crossed into the opposite
lane, with unsafe speed listed as the PCF.
• Intersection collisions: 4 collisions were at the PVDE/PVDS intersection (13%). 3
collisions (10%) were at the intersection of PVDE with Ganado Drive (2 of these involved
bicyclists). One collision was at the intersection with Casalina Drive (3%).
• Mid-block collisions: 23 collisions (74%) were mid-block (not at any intersection). Of
these, 10 collisions (43%) occurred on the sharply curving “switchbacks” section of PVDE,
as can be seen on the map. This included one collision involving a bicyclist, 6 collisions
involving fixed or other objects, and 2 non-collisions where a vehicle overturned or ran off
the road.
• Involvement: There were 11 collisions of motor vehicles with fixed objects (35%); 10
collisions between moving motor vehicles (32%); 5 collisions involving motorcycles (16%);
and 4 collisions involving bicyclists (13%).
• Bicyclist collisions: Of the 4 bicyclist collisions, 2 (50%) were at the intersection with
Ganado Drive. Both of these collisions exhibit the same pattern: an eastbound motor vehicle
driver making a left turn from Ganado Drive onto northbound PVDE failed to yield right-of-
way to a southbound bicyclist proceeding straight on PVDE, resulting in a broadside
collision. One of these collisions was in daylight and one was at dusk.
• Collision types: The collision types were as follows: 11 Hit Object (35%), 6 Broadside
(19%), 5 Head-on (16%), 3 Rear-End (10%), 3 Sideswipe (10%), 2 Other (6%), and 1
Overturned (3%).
• Primary contributing factors: The primary contributing factors (PCFs) were as follows:
Unsafe Speed for 13 collisions (42%); Improper Turning for 12 collisions (39%); Auto Right-
Of-Way Violation for 2 collisions (6% - both involved bicyclists); Following Too Closely for
one collision (3%); and Other Than Driver for one collision (3%). No PCF was listed for 2
collisions (6%).
• Unsafe speed: Of the 13 collision for which the PCF was Unsafe Speed, 9 (69%) occurred
in the evening (after 5:00 PM).
• Weather: 30 collisions (97%) occurred in clear weather. One (3%) occurred in rain.
• Lighting: 15 collisions occurred in daylight (48%), 11 in the dark with no street lights (35%),
2 in the dark with street lights (6%), and 3 at dusk (10%).
• Special considerations: 6 collisions (19%) involved a driver who crossed into the opposite
lane.
• Day of Week: 8 collisions (26%) occurred on Friday and Saturday evenings or nights; 5
occurred on Sundays (16%); and the remaining 18 occurred on weekdays (58%).
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3.1. Road Segment Collision Rates
The collision rate, expressed in terms of collisions per million vehicle miles traveled, is
calculated for the segment of PVDE from Crest Rd to PVDS based on average daily traffic,
segment length, number of collisions, and analysis period in days, as shown in the equation
below.
Collision Rate = Total No. of Collisions x 1,000,000
Distance x ADT x No. of Days
Where:
- Total No. of Collisions: Total Number of collisions on the segment during the analysis period
(5 years), both directions (31 collisions)
- ADT: Average Daily Traffic (vehicles/day), both directions (2,992 daily vehicles, per the 2021
citywide Engineering and Traffic Survey)
- Distance: Roadway segment distance travelled by each vehicle (1.94 miles)
- No. of Days: Number of days during the selected analysis period (5 years = 1,826 days)
Therefore, for this road segment:
Collision Rate = 31 x 1,000,000
1.94 x 2,992 x 1,826 = 31,000,000
10,598,980 = 2.92
Furthermore, there were 18 injury collisions and one fatal collision, for a total of 19 fatal
plus injury collisions. For this road segment:
Fatal + Injury Collision Rate = 19 x 1,000,000
1.94 x 2,992 x 1,826 = 19,000,000
10,598,980 = 1.79
To compare these rates with the collision rates that can be reasonably expected, the study
segment collision rates were compared to the collision rates on road segments with similar
characteristics in Caltrans District 7 (Los Angeles and Ventura Counties) using the Caltrans
publication 2022 Crash Data on California State Highways. Exhibit 10 compares the road
segment collision rates to the 2022 average collision rates for this roadway type.
Exhibit 10. 2022 collision rates, District 7, compared with subject road segment rates
Roadway Type Expected Collision Rates
Total Collisions Per Million
Vehicle Miles
Fatal + Injury Collisions
Per Million Vehicle Miles
Expected collision rates: 2 Lane and 3
Lane (District 7) 1.51 0.74
Subject Road Segment 2.92 1.79
Source: 2022 Crash Data on California State Highways (road miles, travel, crashes, crash rates). Issued by:
The California Department of Transportation
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As can be seen from the above table, the collision rate on the subject road segment is
higher than that on similar roads in District 7 (Los Angeles and Ventura Counties). The rate
of injury and fatal collisions is also higher than that on similar roads in District 7.
Bicycle collision rates cannot be calculated in the same manner because data for bicycle
miles traveled are not available. However, in the same time period (4/1/2019 to 3/31/2024),
the total number of bicycle-motor vehicle collisions in the City was 30, according to the
available data. Of these 30 collisions, 4 (13%) occurred in the study area. The study area
represents 17% of the total mileage of arterial roads in the City. This suggests that bicycle
collisions are not necessarily occurring at disproportionately high rates in the study area
compared to the rest of the City.
3.2. Intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive
As stated above, there were 3 collisions between April 1, 2019 and March 31, 2024 in the
PVDE and Ganado Drive intersection. All 3 collisions resulted in injuries, with 1 causing
severe injuries. One collision was vehicle versus vehicle, while the other 2 were vehicle vs.
bicycle.
The vehicle vs. vehicle collision was between a vehicle traveling southbound on PVDE
(Vehicle 1) and a vehicle turning left onto PVDE from Ganado Drive (Vehicle 2). The
collision occurred during daylight hours with clear weather conditions. The cause of the
collision was determined to be unsafe speed for conditions by Vehicle 2. The driver
admitted in their witness statement that they were distracted due to looking at the ocean
when Vehicle 2 suddenly appeared in their line of sight when it was too late to stop. All
parties involved had minor or possible injuries.
The first vehicle vs. bicycle collision occurred in June 2019 during daylight hours with clear
weather conditions. The bicyclist was traveling southbound on PVDE and the vehicle was
making a left turn from Ganado Drive onto PVDE when the bicyclist broadsided the vehicle.
The cause of collision was determined to be failure for the vehicle to yield to cross traffic
on PVDE when making the left turn. All parties in the vehicle had minor injuries due to the
collision breaking a window. The bicyclist suffered severe injuries and was transported to
the hospital.
The second vehicle vs. bicycle collision occurred in November 2023 during dusk with clear
weather conditions. The bicyclist was traveling southbound on PVDE and the vehicle was
making a left turn from Ganado Drive onto PVDE when the bicyclist broadsided the vehicle.
The cause of the collision was determined to be failure for the vehicle to yield to cross traffic
on PVDE and resulted in a citation. The reporting officer noted that the line of sight is limited
for left-turning drivers due to the curvature of the road and that trees and bushes potentially
obstruct the view of the silhouette of a bicyclist, particularly during early evening hours. The
bicyclist suffered minor injuries.
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3.3. Intersection Collision Rates
The collision rate, expressed in terms of collisions per million entering vehicles, is
calculated for the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive based on traffic volumes,
number of collisions, and analysis period in days, as shown in the equation below.
Collision Rate = Total No. of Collisions x 1,000,000
Entering Vehicles x No. of Days
Where:
- Total No. of Collisions: Total Number of collisions at the intersection during the 5-year
analysis period (3 collisions)
- Entering Vehicles: For a conservative approach, the bidirectional ADT (Average Daily
Traffic ) on PVDE at the traffic count location south of Ganado Drive is used (2,992 daily
vehicles, per the 2021 citywide Engineering and Traffic Survey)
- No. of Days: Number of days during the selected analysis period (5 years = 1,826 days)
Therefore, for this intersection:
Collision Rate = 3 x 1,000,000
2,992 x 1,826 = 3,000,000
5,463,392 = 0.55
Furthermore, each of these three collisions resulted in injury. Therefore, for this
intersection:
Fatal + Injury Collision Rate = 3 x 1,000,000
2,992 x 1,826 = 3,000,000
5,463,392 = 0.55
To compare these rates with the collision rates that can be reasonably expected, the study
intersection collision rates were compared to the collision rates at intersections with similar
characteristics in California using the Caltrans publication 2022 Crash Data on California
State Highways. Exhibit 11 compares the intersection collision rates to the 2022 average
collision rates for this intersection type.
Exhibit 11. 2022 collision rates, statewide, compared with subject intersection rates
Intersection Type Expected Collision Rates
Total Collisions Per Million
Entering Vehicles
Fatal + Injury Collisions
Per Million Entering
Vehicles
Expected collision rates: Suburban, T-
intersection, Stop control 0.22 0.09
Subject Intersection 0.55 0.55
Source: 2022 Crash Data on California State Highways (road miles, travel, crashes, crash rates). Issued by:
The California Department of Transportation
As can be seen from the above table, the collision rates at the intersection are higher than
the statewide rates, both for total collisions and for fatal plus injury collisions.
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Exhibit 12. 5-Year Collision Map, 4/1/2019 - 3/31-2024
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4. Discussion
This section presents a discussion of the various factors that were examined, and explains how
the analysis helped to inform the recommendations of this study.
4.1. Sight Distance Analysis
The sight distance analysis found that the line of sight for left-turning vehicles from Ganado Drive
onto PVDE exceeds the 330-foot minimum for 37.6 mph per the California HDM. Although the
sight distance requirements were met, it was determined that cars parked on the PVDE spur could
partially block the view of turning vehicles, and therefore it is recommended to move the STOP
bar forward to the flow line.
4.2. Bicycle-Vehicle Conflicts
While there have only been 4 bicycle-involved collisions over the 5-year collision analysis period,
two of these occurred at the PVDE and Ganado Drive intersection. Both collisions occurred
between vehicles turning left onto PVDE from Ganado Drive and bicyclists traveling southbound
on PVDE. Both collisions were determined to be caused by the vehicles failing to yield to cross
traffic. In both instances, the drivers claimed that they did not see the bicyclists.
Over the entire 1.94-mile study area, bicyclists are forced to share the road with vehicles at high
rates of speed and have no dedicated bicycle facilities. As a result, it may be more difficult for
turning vehicles to spot or remember to look for bicycles since they are mixed with traffic and
there are no indicators that they could be present such as signage or bicycle lanes on the road.
As mentioned above, despite the sight distance exceeding the 300-foot minimum, the smaller size
of bicycles makes them more difficult to spot, which can be exacerbated by surrounding foliage
or the time of day.
4.3. Safety on Southbound PVDE approaching Ganado Drive
On the southbound PVDE approach to the Ganado Drive intersection, the curve of the road is
marked by chevron alignment signs (W1-8). Based on road geometry and collision history, there
does not appear to be a specific road design issue that affects the safety of this approach.
4.4. Safety of Switchbacks on PVDE - South of Ganado Drive
The portion of PVDE somewhat south of Ganado Drive contains an area with three switchbacks
(also known as “hairpin bends”) in close succession. A previous study (April 2023) recommended
signage updates related to this section. These recommendations are summarized and carried
over to the present study (see Section 5).
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5. Recommendations
The following are recommendations the City can consider to address safety concerns for drivers
and bicyclists in the study area on Palos Verdes Drive East and the intersection at Ganado Drive.
Each recommendation includes the length of time required for implementation. A summary map
of the recommendations is shown in Exhibit 14Exhibit 13.
5.1. Trim Vegetation (0-1 years)
As noted in the sight distance analysis, the vegetation on the landscaped divider between the
main part of PVDE and the small PVDE spur could potentially block the view. The vegetation
growing on the ground should be maintained and kept trimmed to a maximum height of 30 inches
(measured from the ground). This may help to address issues of the visibility of cyclists to drivers.
5.2. Replace / Upgrade Signage (0-1 years)
The previous (April 2023) study of this area suggested replacement of some existing signs in light
of new regulations (California’s 3-foot passing law) and new signage that is available per the CA-
MUTCD. These recommendations have been updated in the present study based on feedback
from the City and from residents as well as further engineering analysis.
Many of the existing signs are not in the MUTCD and have more words on them than are
necessary (and are therefore potentially more difficult for motorists to process compared to signs
with fewer words). Also, there are more signs than necessary, which may contribute to “sign
fatigue” (where motorists disregard signs because there are too many of them to process) and
may detract from the aesthetics of the area. Recommendations for sign replacement and removal
are shown in Exhibit 13 and summarized as follows:
In the uphill (northbound) direction:
• Remove sign #2 (Sloped Area / Proceed At Own Risk). This sign is posted in the uphill
direction but shows a bicycle going downhill.
• Replace sign #3 (Slow Bikes Keep Right) with “Pass Bicycle 3 Feet Minimum” (R117 (CA)).
• Remove sign #4 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Remove sign #5 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Remove sign #6 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Remove sign #7 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Add W2-7R (Offset Side Roads) on PVDE 250 feet south of Vista Del Mar (measured from
the Vista Del Mar centerline).
• Add a speed feedback sign on PVDE 150 feet north of Ganado Drive (measured from the
Ganado Drive centerline).
• Remove sign #8 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• During a site visit in March 2023, sign #9 was observed to be missing the bicycle diamond
sign (W11-1). This could be replaced if it has not been already.
• Add sign #18 (R4-1) to existing W1-2 sign post.
• Ensure that trees and vegetation are trimmed so as not to block the signs.
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In the downhill (southbound) direction:
• Remove sign #10 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road)
• Add W2-7R (Offset Side Roads) on PVDE 250 feet north of Ganado Drive (measured from
the Ganado Drive centerline).
• Add a speed feedback sign 460 feet north of Ganado Drive (measured from the Ganado
Drive centerline).
• Replace sign #11 (“Sloped Area / Proceed At Own Risk”) with “Watch Downhill Speed”
(SW4-1(CA)).
• Replace sign #12 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road) with “Pass Bicycle 3
Feet Minimum” (R117 (CA)).
• Remove sign #13 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road).
• Replace sign #14 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road) with “Watch Downhill
Speed” (SW4-1(CA)).
• Remove sign #15 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road).
• Remove sign #16 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road).
• Add W1-2(R) with R4-1 sign.
• Ensure that trees and vegetation are trimmed so as not to block the signs.
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Exhibit 13. Sign and road marking recommendations
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5.3. Wider edge lines (0-1 years)
As noted in the April 2023 study, wider edge lines (6 inches rather than the normal 4 inches) are
one of the countermeasures in the FHWA’s toolbox of proven safety countermeasures, and have
been shown to reduce non-intersection, fatal and injury crashes up to 37% on rural, two-lane
roads. The FHWA lists the presence of curves as a potential risk factor for which this
countermeasure may be effective. Wider edge lines could be installed along PVDE throughout
the study area.
5.4. Restripe PVDE and add bike lanes (1-3 years)
The City could consider restriping the four-lane section of PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road
to include slightly narrower vehicular lanes and bicycle lanes. With a minimum curb-to-curb width
of 52 feet, there is available space for four 10.5-foot-wide travel lanes plus 5-foot-wide Class II
bicycle lanes in each direction. An existing typical cross-section for this area is shown in Exhibit
15 and an example of this proposed restriping, adding bicycle lanes, is shown in Exhibit 16. In the
area of PVDE directly north of the intersection with Ganado Drive, where there is a right turn lane
for vehicles turning onto Ganado Drive, the bicycle lane (intended for bicyclists proceeding
straight) would be positioned between the right turn lane and the vehicular through lane, as shown
in Exhibit 18. This is standard practice for bicycle lanes adjacent to right turn lanes as it is
assumed that bicyclists turning right can use the right turn lane.
There is also the possibility of reducing the number of vehicular travel lanes (particularly reducing
the length of the merging lanes) and using the extra space to create buffered or Class IV protected
bike lanes; this would require further analysis. If bike lanes are added, green paint should be
added to intersections to increase bike lane visibility. An example is shown in Exhibit 14.
Exhibit 14. Intersection with painted green striping for bicycles (source: newsobserver.com)
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Exhibit 15. Existing typical cross-section of PVDE, looking north, between Crest Rd. and Ganado Dr.
Exhibit 16. Proposed cross-section restriped to include bicycle lanes in each direction
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Exhibit 17. Existing cross-section of PVDE directly north of Ganado Dr., looking north
Exhibit 18. Proposed cross-section of PVDE directly north of Ganado Dr., looking north, showing position of bicycle lanes
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5.5. Reduced Speed Limit
As noted earlier, the speed survey just north of Ganado on PVDE showed an 85th percentile speed
of 36.3 mph. The speed survey just south of Ganado showed 85th percentile speeds of 38.2 and
39 mph for weekday and Saturday respectively.
Per CVC Section 22358.6, the City can round down the above numbers to lowest 5 mph yielding
a posted speed limit of 35mph in line with the currently posted speed limit.
Given the high collision rate, the presence of a nearby university campus which has the potential
to generate pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and the terrain and switchbacks, the City can further
reduce the speed limit by 5 mph to 30 mph per CVC Section 22358.7.
It is recommended that the City reduces the posted speed limit on PVDE between Crest Rd and
PVDS especially in conjunction with adding the bike lanes described in the previous section.
5.6. Other Safety Countermeasures
Given the collision history and rates in the study area, the City could consider implementing other
proven safety countermeasures from the FHWA toolbox, not only for bicyclists but for all traffic.
The following safety countermeasures could be beneficial given the characteristics of the road
and the types of collisions that have occurred:
• In-lane curve warning pavement markings, which could be installed in advance of the
approaches to the curves.
• Dynamic curve warning signs, which could be installed in advance of the approaches to
the curves.
6. References
CalBike. Three Feet for Safety.
https://www.calbike.org/our_initiatives/give_me_3/#:~:text=In%202013%2C%20after%20
three%20years,when%20passing%20people%20riding%20bikes.
California, State of. California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. 2014 edition, Revision
6 (March 30, 2021).
FHWA. Proven Safety Countermeasures. https://highways.dot.gov/safety/proven-safety-
countermeasures
Rancho Palos Verdes, City of. Engineering and Traffic Survey (Dec. 2021).
B-25
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 05/20/2025
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA TITLE:
Consideration of recommended traffic measures for Palos Verdes Drive East from Crest
Road to Palos Verdes Drive South.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1)Adopt Resolution No. 2025-XX, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES APPROVING THE ENGINEERING
TRAFFIC STUDY RECOMMENDATIONS AND ESTABLISHING A SPEED
LIMIT OF 35 MILES PER HOUR FOR PALOS VERDES DRIVE EAST (PVDE)
FROM CREST ROAD TO PALOS VERDES DRIVE SOUTH (PVDS);
(2)Approve replacing the existing landscaping in the median between PVDE and
the spur road with slow growing plantings that will be maintained at a maximum
height of 30 inches as measured from the top of the median curb;
(3)Approve moving the stop bar on Ganado Drive to the flowline of PVDE;
(4)Direct Staff to upgrade the signs and pavement markings on PVDE from Crest
Road to PVDS based on the General Technologies and Solutions (GTS) Traffic
Study with modifications as deemed appropriate by the Public Works Director;
(5)Approve 5 foot-wide bicycle lanes on PVDE from Crest Road to Vista Del Mar
as part of the next PVDE roadway slurry sealing/re-paving CIP project;
(6)Direct Staff to prioritize traffic law enforcement on PVDE between Crest Road
and PVDS to the extent allowable by enforcement resources and competing
priorities; and,
(7)Direct staff to conduct an after action study at least one year after
implementation of the traffic measures and speed limit reductions for the City
Council’s review to determine whether additional measures should be
implemented including further reducing speed limits.
FISCAL IMPACT: The estimated total cost of implementing the recommended City
Council actions is $550,000.
The proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 CIP includes a budget of
$300,000 for the Citywide Traffic Calming Program, which can be
used to fund the recommended traffic sign upgrades, estimated to
cost approximately $50,000.
The proposed FY 2025-26 roadway landscaping operating budget of
$1,373,000 can be used to fund replacement of the existing
landscaping, which is estimated to cost approximately $50,000.
C-1
Staff recommend incorporating the bicycle lanes and other pavement
markings work into the Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE) slurry
sealing/repaving project to avoid re-work when the slurry sealing/re-
paving project for PVDE is implemented. During the CIP Budget
Workshop, Staff proposed funding this project in FY 2026-27 due to
funding constraints. However, Staff have now identified $1.4M from
a fund restricted for roadway use (Measure R), of which $450,000
can be applied to this work in FY25-26. If the recommendations are
approved this evening, the funding will be included in the proposed
CIP budget on June 3, 2025 for City Council consideration. VR
Amount Budgeted: TBD
Additional Appropriation: TBD
Account Number(s): TBD
ORIGINATED BY: Noel Casil, PE, TE, PTOENVC
REVIEWED BY: Ramzi Awwad, Public Works Director
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Resolution No. 2025-__ Establishing a Speed Limit for PVDE from Crest
Road to PVDS (page A-1)
B. GTS Traffic Safety Study: Palos Verdes Drive East and Ganado Drive –
Updated April 2025 (page B-1)
C. Traffic Safety Committee Meeting January 27, 2025
D. Community Notification Letter: Traffic Safety Study Palos Verdes Drive
East and Ganado Drive (page D-1)
E. Public Comments (page E-1)
BACKGROUND:
On November 12, 2023, Staff received a request from the Mediterrania Homeowners
Association (MHOA) to conduct a traffic study in response to two traffic collisions involving
bicyclists as well as other vehicle crashes at the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive,
and along the associated segment of PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS.
In response to MHOA’s traffic safety concerns, the City retained a traffic engineering firm,
GTS, to prepare a traffic study and develop recommendations for PVDE at and around
Ganado Drive (Attachment B). The study included a review of residents’ (MHOA)
complaints and concerns, existing conditions (including site visits), traffic speed, sight
distance, collision data, and other factors. The study area is shown in Figure 1 on the
following page.
The City Council is being asked to consider the recommendations of the GTS Traffic
Study including establishing a new speed limit, among other things, along PVDE between
Crest Road and PVDS.
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Figure 1- Study Area Map
DISCUSSION:
Traffic Analysis
Existing Conditions
As described in the traffic study, the study area encompasses the segment of PVDE from
Crest Road to PVDS. The study area evaluated the intersection of PVDE and Ganado
Drive, the downhill segment of PVDE north of Ganado Drive and the segment of PVDE
between Ganado Drive and the switchbacks towards PVDS.
PVDE is classified as a major road and arterial in the City’s General Plan. The roadway
cross-section changes throughout the study area and can be generally described as
varying from four lanes to two lanes of varying widths. South of Vista Del Mar to 300 feet
north of PVDS contains three “hairpin” turns locally known as “the switchbacks” with sharp
120-foot radii turns.
Traffic Speeds
The existing posted speed limit for PVDE is 35 miles per hour (mph) from Crest Road to
Ganado Drive and 40 mph from Ganado Drive to PVDS. This speed limit was set based
upon the prevailing speed, or 85th percentile speed, which is the speed at , or below
which, 85 percent of drivers travel. The 85th percentile speed is used in the traffic
engineering industry as a reference to establish speed limits based on the concept that
most motorists can be relied upon to drive at a reasonable speed. Studies have shown
that setting arbitrarily low speed limits results in wholesale violations and does not
necessarily result in lower driving speeds. The California Vehicle Code (CVC), Section
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627 refers to the 85th percentile speed, as described above, to be essentially representing
the speed considered safe and reasonable for setting speed limits on roadways, with
certain modifications based on the application of the judgement of a Traffic Engineer due
to specific site conditions.
An Engineering and Traffic Survey (E&TS) adopted by the City Council in 2021
recommended no changes to these existing speed limits, based on the 85th percentile
speed data collected for that E&TS at that time.
As part of the current traffic study, new traffic speed data was collected just south of the
intersection of PVDE and Vista del Mar on the morning of a typical weekday and typical
Saturday. Traffic speed data was also collected north of the intersection of PVDE and
Ganado Dr. on a typical weekday. Weather conditions during data collection times were
clear, and the roadway was in good, dry condition.
The data was used to calculate the 85th percentile speed which is summarized in Table 1
below.
Table 1 – Traffic Speed Data on PVDE South of Vista del Mar
Data Collection Existing
Speed Limit
Northbound
85th Percentile Speed
Southbound
85th Percentile Speed
PVDE South of Vista del Mar
Weekday
40 mph 39.7 mph 36.4 mph
PVDE South of Vista del Mar
Weekend
40 mph 40 mph 37.6 mph
PVDE North of Ganado Dr 35 mph 35.1 mph 37.4 mph
Sight Distance
Intersection Sight Distance (ISD) represents the sight line distance needed for a driver
leaving the intersection to have enough time to see that the road is clear, then leave the
intersection while allowing an oncoming vehicle sufficient time to react to prevent a crash.
The required ISD was calculated for the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive using
the applicable traffic engineering manual.
The required sight distance looking north (viewing southbound traffic) for the measured
85th percentile speed is 330 feet, which exists with the current configuration for a vehicle
stopped behind the existing STOP bar. However, parked vehicles on the west side of the
spur road could possibly block the view of southbound traffic on PVDE. In order to avoid
even this possibility, the traffic study recommends moving the STOP bar forward to the
flow line, which results in over 330 feet of sight distance without having to consider any
additional parking restrictions on the spur road. The improved sight distance with the
STOP bar moved forward to the flow line is shown in Figure 2.
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Figure 2- Sight Distance Analysis (with STOP bar relocated forward)
The sight distance analysis noted that the vegetation on the landscaped divider between
PVDE and the spur road could potentially block the view if overgrown. The study
recommended that vegetation growing on the ground should be maintained and kept
trimmed to a maximum height of 30 inches (measured from the top of the median curb).
This may help to address issues of the visibility of cyclists to drivers.
Maintaining a maximum vegetation height of 30 inches means that maintenance needs
to be conducted on a regular basis to trim vegetation well under that height. That trimming
needs to be conducted very carefully to maintain a pleasant appearance, which can be
difficult to do consistently. Additionally, any missed maintenance cycle could create a
liability for the City. This creates an administrative and maintenance burden for the Public
Works Department. Therefore, Staff recommend replacing the existing land scaping with
very slow growing plantings that start at a height of approximately 24 inches and take six
months to a year to grow to a height of 30 inches. Staff recommend preparing a landscape
plan for concurrence with MHOA prior to the removal of the exis ting vegetation and
replanting with new vegetation. In the meantime, the Public Works Department will
continue to maintain the existing landscaping to a height of approximately 24 inches to
avoid any potential liability.
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The sight distance looking south (viewing northbound traffic), for the measured 85th
percentile speed, is 300 feet; which exists with the current configuration for a vehicle
stopped behind the existing STOP bar.
Collision History
The collision history for PVDE from Crest Rd. to PVDS and for the intersection of PVDE
and Ganado Dr., was evaluated using the most recent 5-year period for which data is
available from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD). The time period
analyzed was April 1, 2019 to March 31, 2024. This was based on the timeline during
which the traffic study was performed for presentation to the Traffic Safety Committee
(TSC) considering that collision reports are sometimes not finalized for several months
after a collision due to the quality control and approval process. Figure 3 summarizes the
collision data.
Figure 3- Collisions in the Study Area
Because roadways with higher traffic volumes are expected to have more collisions, a
collision rate was calculated to normalize for the volume of traffic. The collision rate for
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the roadway is expressed as collisions per million vehicle miles traveled and as collisions
per million vehicles entering an intersection.
Additionally, because roadways with particular characteristics may have more or fewer
collisions, the collision rate was compared to roadways with similar characteristics as the
subject roadway and intersection. The collision rate was compared to collision rates on
segments of similar characteristics in Caltrans District 7 (Los Angeles and Ventura
Counties), which is the best available source of comparative data.
In addition to the collision data from the LASD, MHOA stated that there have been other
collisions for which LASD did not take a report. These collisions are not included in the
collision rate analysis, because it is known to the Public Works Department that not all
collisions result in a collision report, particularly if the collision only involves property
damage. Therefore, including non-reported collisions in the collision rate would no longer
allow for an apples-to-apples comparison.
The collision rate for the study segment of PVDE is 2.92 collisions per million vehicle
miles traveled (collisions/MVMT), which is higher than the collision rate of 1.51
collisions/MVMT for similar roadways in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Furthermore,
the fatal and injury collision rate for the study segment of PVDE is 1.79 collisions/MVMT,
which is higher than the fatal and injury collision rate of 0.74 collisions/MVMT for similar
roadways in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.
The collision rate for the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Dr is 0.55 collisions per million
entering vehicles (collisions/MEV), which is higher than the California intersection
average collision rate of 0.22 collisions/MEV for similar intersections in Los Angeles and
Ventura Counties. In total, there were three collisions at the subject intersection between
April 1, 2019 and March 31, 2024. Two of the collisions were between a vehicle and
bicycle and one was between a vehicle and vehicle. All three collisions resulted in injuries.
The fatal and injury collision rate for the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Dr is also 0.55
collisions/MEV, which is higher than the fatal and injury collision rate of 0.09
collisions/MEV for similar intersections in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.
However, it should be noted that intersection crash rates are conservative rates, because
crash analyses for establishing a stop sign, speed limit, traffic signal, or left turn arrow at
a signal typically encompass a three-year period whereby a specific correctable collision
pattern occurs in a 12-month period (per the applicable traffic engineering manual). In this
case, if the analysis was conducted over a three-year period, the resultant collision rates
would be much lower considering that the bicycle collisions occurred approximately four
years apart.
Recommended Traffic Measures
GTS developed recommendations to improve traffic safety based on guidance from state
and national traffic engineering publications such as the California Highway Design
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Manual (HDM), Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Device (CAMUTCD), Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) Traffic Safety Toolbox, and American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials (AASTHO) Highway & Street Design “Green Book”.
In close coordination with MHOA, Staff endeavored to develop feasible and practical
solutions to address the areas of concern within the study area . Based on the Traffic
Study, Staff recommend implementation of the measures below. Although the Traffic
Study recommends that the measures be implemented in phases, with long-term
measures following the short-term measures (if needed), Staff recommend implementing
all measures in the short term or as funding becomes available.
Speed Limit Reduction
Based on the 85th percentile speed, GTS states that the speed limit could be reduced to
35 mph. However, given the high collision rate, presence of a nearby university campus
(which has the potential to generate pedestrian and bicycle traffic ), the terrain, and
switchbacks, the City Council can consider further reducing the speed limit by 5 mph to
30 mph.
Staff recommend reducing the speed limit from the existing 40 miles per hour (mph) down
to 35 mph for the segment of PVDE between PVDS and Ganado Dr and maintaining the
speed limit of 35 mph for the segment of PVDE between Ganado Dr and Crest Rd.
MHOA has stated that they strongly believe a speed limit of 30 mph is needed from Crest
Rd. to PVDS due to conditions not readily apparent to drivers. Staff believe that a
reduction of 10 mph at one time (for the segment between Ganado Dr. and PVDS) may
result in poor compliance and that an incremental approach of a 5-mph reduction
combined with traffic calming measures will yield higher compliance. Staff are concerned
that poor speed limit compliance will create a variation in speeds where some drivers
comply with the speed limit while others do not, which could result in increased collisions,
particularly rear-end collisions.
Staff recommend first implementing the traffic calming measures stated in this report in
conjunction with a reduction of 5 mph from Ganado Dr . to PVDS, followed by an after-
action study in one year after implementation. This will allow road users to adjust to the
new conditions and for some data to become available subsequent to implementation of
the traffic calming measures. Depending on the results of the after-action study, a further
reduction in the speed limit could be recommended.
Landscaping
Although the GTS Traffic Study recommends trimming the existing vegetation in the
median between PVDE and the spur road to maintain sight distance at the intersection,
Staff recommend replacing the existing landscaping with very slow growing plantings that
start at a height of approximately 24 inches and take six months to a year to grow to a
height of 30 inches, as measured from the median curb, based on a landscape plan
agreed-upon with the HOA. This will reduce the administrative and maintenance
challenges for the Public Works Department when compared with trimming the existing
landscaping.
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Stop Bar Relocation
Based on the analysis in the GTS Traffic Study, Staff recommend moving the STOP bar
on Ganado Dr. to the edge of the PVDE right-turn lane (as shown in Figure 4) to increase
the sight distance at the intersection for eastbound (Ganado Dr) traffic without having to
consider any additional parking restrictions on the spur road.
Figure 4- Ganado Dr at PVDE Stop Relocation
Traffic Signage and Pavement Marking Upgrades
In consideration of the GTS Traffic Study conclusions about signage, Staff recommend
updating some existing signs (as shown in Figure 5) to comply with current standards and
removing some signs that are not necessary to reduce sign clutter where motorists
disregard signs, because there are too many of them to process.
Staff also recommend installing speed feedback signs, which display a motorist’s current
speed in comparison to the speed limit. Although GTS recommends the locations shown
in Figure 5 for the speed feedback signs, Staff recommends working with MHOA to
identify the most suitable locations based on user experience.
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Figure 5 - Study Area Traffic Sign Upgrades
Although dynamic warning signs were part of the initial recommendations presented to
the TSC, during the preparation of the construction estimates by the GTS, Staff learned
some design details about the dynamic curve warning signs that caused concern that
they may have unintended consequences of potentially adding light pollution and
interfering with scenic views when the curve warning lights are activated as vehicles
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approach the curves over the speed thresholds. Cognizant to the potential light pollution
effect on the community, Staff are recommending supplemental reflective curve warning
signage where in lieu of the dynamic curve warning signs that were originally
recommended in the traffic report and to the TSC. Staff believes this is not a major
change, because the dynamic curve warning signs were additional measures that could
be considered rather than core traffic calming elements.
Additionally, Staff recommend re-painting the roadway edge lines to increase the width
from the existing 4-inches to 6-inches along PVDE and installing in-lane curve warning
pavement markings as detailed in the GTS Traffic Study.
Bike Lanes
To reduce conflicts between bicyclists and motor vehicles at the intersection of PVDE and
Ganado Dr, Staff recommend installing new 5 -foot-wide bicycle-only lanes on the four-
lane section of PVDE from Crest Road to Vista Del Mar, as detailed in the GTS Tra ffic
Study. This would require reducing the vehicle lane widths to 10.5 feet (as shown in Figure
6). In the area of PVDE directly north of the intersection with Ganado Dr, where there is
a right-turn lane for vehicle turning onto Ganado Dr, the bicycle lane would be positioned
between the right-turn lane and the vehicular through lane.
Figure 6 - Proposed Lane Configuration for PVDE near Ganado Dr
The bicycle lanes can be implemented as a stand-alone project or as part of the roadway
slurry sealing/re-paving program. As a stand-alone project, the improvements can be
implemented more quickly; however, this approach is not recommended because some
of the improvements would likely be demolished and need to be reconstructed during the
PVDE roadway slurry sealing/re-paving Capital Improvement Program (CIP) project.
During the CIP Budget Workshop, Staff proposed funding this project in FY 2026 -27 due
to current funding constraints. However, Staff have now identified a restricted fund for
roadway maintenance that can be used to fund the work in FY 2025-26. This will be
proposed to the City Council in the revised CIP as part of the budget process.
Staff recommend implementing the 5-foot wide bicycle lanes as part of the roadway slurry
sealing/re-paving CIP project to avoid re-work on PVDE and benefit from the economies
of scale resulting from the administration of one larger project instead of two projects. In
this scenario, the bicycle lanes are scheduled to be implemented in FY 2025-26, provided
the project remains funded at the conclusion of the FY 2025-26 CIP process.
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Traffic Safety Committee
On January 27, 2025, Staff presented the GTS traffic study recommendations to the TSC
at a public meeting (Attachment C). After considering the information presented that
evening, along with public testimony, the TSC moved, in a unanimous vote of five in favor
with no objection, to recommend to the City Council the following:
(1) Approve the following traffic safety improvements for PVDE from Crest Road
to PVDS and at the intersection with Ganado Drive with the exception that a
speed study starts six months after implementation and an evaluation be
brought back to the TSC.
A. Sight distance and visibility improvements at PVDE and Ganado Drive
B. Traffic Signage and Striping Upgrades
C. Widened roadway edge lines
D. Restripe certain segments of PVDE to add bike lanes
E. Reduction of the speed limit on PVDE between PVDS and Ganado Drive
F. Installation of supplemental roadway warning signs
(2) Prioritize traffic enforcement in the area; and
(3) Ask the traffic engineer to again review the signs approaching the intersection
and include any signage enhancements.
Following the January 27, 2025 TSC meeting, the traffic engineer conducted an additional
follow-up evaluation for Item 3 above and reported back to Staff that no additional signage
enhancements are needed over and beyond those already included in the traffic study.
While no changes are proposed at this time beyond what was stated in the report, the
traffic engineer reported that there are some items that can be addressed during the
design stage when detailed signing and striping plans are developed.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
City Councilmember Proximity to Project Site
Councilmember Perestam resides within 500 feet of the project site. As such, it is
recommended that Councilmember Perestam recuse himself from the public hearing.
Public Notification and Public Comments
To ensure that residents are aware of the City Council’s discussion on the traffic safety
measures for PVDE at and around Ganado Dr., including the segment of PVDE which
spans from Crest Rd. to PVDS, Staff sent a courtesy notice (Attachment D) to residents
that this item will be discussed at tonight’s meeting. In addition to MHOA residents, Staff
expanded the notification to include areas served by roads feeding into Ganado Dr., Crest
Rd. and neighborhood east of PVDE. Staff sent close approximately 1,000 notification
mailers ahead of tonight’s meeting.
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In response to the public notification of tonight’s City Council meeting, Staff have received
15 public comments (Attachment E). Any additional comments received by Staff after the
transmittal of this staff report will be provided to the City Council as late correspondence.
CONCLUSION:
Based on the GTS traffic study, community input, and TSC recommendations, Staff
recommend that the City Council adopt a speed limit of 35 mph for PVDE from Crest Rd
to PVDS, move forward the stop bar at Ganado Drive closer to the flow line, approve 5-
foot wide bike lanes on PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road to be implemented as
part of the PVDE roadway slurry sealing/re-paving CIP project (which will be proposed
for funding in FY 2025-26 in the CIP), approve replacing the landscaping in the median
between PVDE and the spur road, and direct Staff to upgrade signs and pavement
markings in the study area based on the GTS Traffic Study with modifications as deemed
appropriate by the Public Works Director. Staff also recommend the City Council prioritize
traffic enforcement in the area as requested by the residents, to the extent allowable by
enforcement resources and competing priorities.
Next Steps
If approved by the City Council, the following recommended measures can be
implemented in the next several months.
• Post speed limit of 35 mph for PVDE between Crest Rd. and PVDS
• Replace the landscaping in the median between PVDE and the spur road
• Relocate the stop bar at Ganado Dr. and PVDE
• Upgrade signage as recommended in the GTS Traffic Study with modifications as
deemed appropriate by the Public Works Director
• Prioritize traffic enforcement in the area as requested by the residents as allowable
by enforcement resources and competing priorities
To avoid re-work when the slurry sealing/re-paving project for PVDE is implemented, Staff
recommend incorporating the bicycle lanes and other pavement markings on PVDE into
the slurry sealing/repaving project for PVDE, to be proposed for FY 2025-26 in the CIP.
ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available for
the City Council’s consideration:
1. Do not approve any Staff recommendations for PVDE between Crest Rd.
and PVDS.
2. Approve only certain Staff recommendations for PVDE between Crest Rd.
and PVDS.
3. Approve certain recommendations and modify others, such as adopting a
speed limit of 30 miles per hour for PVDE between Crest Rd. and PVDS.
4. Take other action as deemed appropriate.
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RESOLUTION NO. 2025- ___
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES APPROVING
THE ENGINEERING TRAFFIC STUDY
RECOMMENDATIONS AND ESTABLISHING AND
ESTABLISHING A SPEED LIMIT OF 35 MILES PER
HOUR FOR PALOS VERDES DRIVE EAST (PVDE)
FROM CREST ROAD TO PALOS VERDES DRIVE
SOUTH (PVDS)
WHEREAS, in accordance with the requirements of Sections 22358.4, 22407 and
40802 of the California Vehicle Code, an engineering and traffic survey was conducted
on the segment of Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE) between Crest Road and Palos
Verdes Drive South (PVDS) within the City limits by the City's Consulting Traffic Engineer,
General Technologies Solutions (GTS), in accordance with the requirements of the
California Vehicle Code, including Section 627 of said Code; and
WHEREAS, the report and recommendations of the City's Consulting Traffic
Engineer and the speed surveys that were conducted were presented for review and
concurrence by the City's Traffic Safety Committee, which has recommended approval
thereof to the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the report and recommendations of the City's Consulting Traffic
Engineer and the speed surveys that were conducted by the Traffic Engineer for the street
segments of PVDE that are set forth in Attachment B: GTS Traffic Safety Study: PVDE
and Ganado Drive – Updated March 2025, which is attached hereto as and incorporated
herein by this reference, were presented for review and approval by the City Council of
the City of Rancho Palos Verdes at a duly noticed meeting thereof on May 20, 2025; and
WHEREAS, it has been determined that the establishment of speed limits that are
reasonable and safe will facilitate the orderly movement of vehicular traffic within the City;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS
VERDES RESOLVES AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The following speed limit is hereby established on the following street
segments in accordance with Section 15.32.010 and 15.32.020 of the City of Rancho
Palos Verdes Traffic Ordinance adopted pursuant to Section 10.04.010 of the Rancho
Palos Verdes Municipal Code:
ENGINEERING TRAFFIC STUDY RECOMMENDATIONS
No. Street From To Existing New Change
1 PALOS VERDES DR E CREST RD GANADO DR 35 35 0
2 PALOS VERDES DR E GANADO DR PALOS VERDES DR S 40 35 -5
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Section 2. All previous resolutions and orders establishing speed limits on the
segment of PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS are hereby amended to reflect the
recommended speed limits.
Section 3. The City Clerk is hereby ordered to file certified copies of this resolution
with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office.
Section 4. The speed limits established in Section 1 of this resolution shall
become effective upon posting of the speed limit signs.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council
of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, California, on this 20th day of May, 2025.
David Bradley, Mayor
ATTEST:
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES )
I, Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, do hereby certify that
the foregoing Resolution No. 2025-__, was duly and regularly passed and adopted by the
said City Council at a regular meeting thereof held on May 20, 2025.
________________________________
Teresa Takaoka, City Clerk
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Traffic Safety Study
PALOS VERDES DRIVE EAST
AND GANADO DRIVE
City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Prepared for the City of Rancho Palos Verdes
Updated – April 2025
Prepared by:
11900 W Olympic Blvd, Suite 450
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Phone: 213 267 2332
www.gentecsol.com
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Executive Summary
This traffic study investigates safety concerns at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive
East and Ganado Drive, and along the associated segment of Palos Verdes Drive East
from Crest Road to Palos Verdes Drive South, in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. The
City received a request from the Mediterrania HOA to conduct a traffic study in response
to two collisions involving bicyclists as well as other vehicles crashes. The traffic study
includes a review of existing conditions, analysis of traffic volumes and speeds, sight
distance analysis, and a collision history review. This study also incorporates
recommendations from a previous study of the area that was carried out in 2023. The
following recommendations are presented in the final section:
1. Trim vegetation and consider tree removal
2. Move the Ganado drive STOP bar forward
3. Replace / upgrade signage
4. Stripe wider edge lines
5. Restripe PVDE and add bike lanes
6. Reduce the speed limit
Contents
Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 2
1. Background .................................................................................................................. 3
2. Existing Conditions ....................................................................................................... 4
2a. Roadway Geometry ................................................................................................ 4
2b. Traffic Volumes and Speeds ................................................................................... 7
2c. Sight Distance Analysis ......................................................................................... 10
2d. Road Curvature and Signage ................................................................................ 10
3. Collision History ......................................................................................................... 13
3.1. Road Segment Collision Rates ............................................................................ 14
3.2. Intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive .............................................................. 15
3.3. Intersection Collision Rates .................................................................................. 16
4. Discussion .................................................................................................................. 18
4.1. Sight Distance Analysis........................................................................................ 18
4.2. Bicycle-Vehicle Conflicts ...................................................................................... 18
4.3. Safety on Southbound PVDE approaching Ganado Drive .................................... 18
4.4. Safety of Switchbacks on PVDE - South of Ganado Drive ................................... 18
5. Recommendations ..................................................................................................... 19
5.1. Trim Vegetation (0-1 years) ................................................................................. 19
5.2. Replace / Upgrade Signage (0-1 years) ............................................................... 19
5.3. Wider edge lines (0-1 years) ................................................................................ 22
5.4. Restripe PVDE and add bike lanes (1-3 years) .................................................... 22
5.5. Reduced Speed Limit ........................................................................................... 25
5.6. Other Safety Countermeasures ............................................................................ 25
6. References ................................................................................................................. 25
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1. Background
In November 2023, the City received an urgent request from the Board of Directors of the
Mediterrania HOA to conduct a traffic study at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive East
(PVDE) and Ganado Drive. Members cited two major automobile vs. bicycle collisions that
occurred within a 60-day period and four recent fatalities. Safety concerns are perceived
to be exacerbated by a lack of traffic control and the lack of visibility along the switchbacks
on PVDE. While the presence of a Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) deputy on the
road was reported to improve driver behavior, the deputy retired and has not been replaced.
This memo examines existing conditions and collision history and presents draft
recommendations for improving safety for all modes of transportation within the study area,
which spans from Crest Road to Palos Verdes Drive South. The study area is shown in
Exhibit 1.
A previous study of this area, completed in April 2023, analyzed collisions on the same
segment of PVDE and recommended modifications to the existing signage as well as other
safety countermeasures. The recommendations of that study are incorporated into the
present study.
Exhibit 1. Study Area
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2. Existing Conditions
The study area is the intersection of Ganado Drive and PVDE, along with the 1.94-mile
road segment of Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE) between Crest Road and the intersection
with Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS).
2a. Roadway Geometry
PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS
The 1.94-mile section of PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS has steep topography, with an
elevation change of about 525 feet from Crest Road to PVDS, and several sharp turns,
including 3 “hairpin” bends, each with a radius of about 120 feet. PVDE is classified as a
major road and arterial in the RPV General Plan.
The overall direction of travel from Crest Road to PVDS is from north to south. Because of
the curves in the road, there are some sections where these directions of travel become
east-west, and even south-north. However, to avoid confusion, this study refers to the
overall northbound (uphill) direction as “north” and the southbound (downhill) direction as
“south”, even though the orientation of some sections of the road may not match this
description.
The posted speed limits are 35 mph from Crest Road to Ganado Drive, and 40 mph from
Ganado Drive to PVDS. The 2021 Engineering and Traffic Survey recommended retaining
these existing speed limits.
The intersections at each end of the study are controlled by traffic signals, while the other
intersections (Casalina Drive, Ganado Drive, and Vista Del Mar) are controlled by stop
signs for the minor streets.
The roadway cross-section typology varies throughout the study area and can be generally
described as follows:
• Segment 1: From Crest Road south to Vista Del Mar (Segment 1 in Exhibit 2),
PVDE has four travel lanes (two in each direction) and a shoulder on the northbound
(uphill) side. The curb-to-curb street width varies between 52 and 82 feet, the travel
lanes are 11 feet wide through most of this section, and the shoulder width varies
between 4 and 5 feet. For most of this section, two of the lanes are through lanes
(one in each direction) and the other two are merging or turning lanes (one in each
direction). There are dedicated right and left turn lanes on PVDE at the intersections
with Crest Road, Casalina Drive, and Ganado Drive. There is a dedicated left turn
lane for Vista Del Mar.
• Segment 2: From 150 feet south of Vista Del Mar to 300 feet north of Palos Verdes
Drive South (Segment 2 in Exhibit 2), PVDE is a 2-lane road with width between 28
and 34 feet. There is a shoulder on each side, of varying width. This area contains
the three aforementioned “hairpin” turns with sharp 120-foot turns.
C-19
• Segment 3: For the final 300 feet of PVDE approaching PVDS, the roadway widens
to accommodate right- and left-turn lanes and a striped median. On this section
there is a 90-degree turn.
• There are five pull-off areas, with various parking regulations posted, as shown in
Exhibit 2.
Exhibit 2. Road segments and pull-off areas
C-20
Intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive
Ganado Drive is a local residential street in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. It is
approximately 1.2 miles long and connects from Crest Road to PVDE. The curb-to-curb
width is between 36 and 38 feet along most of the road, and 50 feet at the intersection with
PVDE. The street is striped with a yellow dashed centerline, and a solid yellow line and
dedicated right- and left-turn lanes at the intersection with PVDE. The posted speed limit
is 25 miles per hour. The street has a slight grade, with approximately 46 feet of elevation
gain from Floweridge Drive to PVDE, but is flat at the intersection.
An aerial view of the study intersection is shown in Exhibit 3. The intersection is three-way
and includes a 350-foot-long residential spur of PVDE that is separated from the main road
by a 12-foot tree-lined buffer and ends in a cul-de-sac. The spur provides access to 6
single-family homes. There is a red curb along the east side of the spur for approximately
250 feet north of the intersection with Ganado Drive. Due to the minimal buffer between
the spur and the main road, traffic looking to turn left from the spur onto PVDE have minimal
space to fully enter the turn lanes on Ganado Drive before touching the stop bars.
As mentioned above, the speed limit on PVDE changes at the intersection, decreasing to
35 mph for northbound traffic and increasing to 40 mph for southbound traffic. The
intersection is served by dedicated left- and right-turn lanes on PVDE. In the vicinity of the
intersection, PVDE has an approximately 10% slope.
Exhibit 3. Aerial view of the intersection (source: NearMap)
C-21
2b. Traffic Volumes and Speeds
Location 1: South of Ganado Drive
Speed data and vehicle counts for PVDE were collected just south of the intersection with
Vista del Mar on the morning of a typical weekday (Tuesday, June 4, 2024) from 9:45 AM
to 10:34 AM, collecting a data sample of 101 vehicles. The data collection was repeated
on a typical Saturday (September 21, 2024) from 11:25 AM to 12:05 PM, collecting a data
sample of 100 vehicles. The posted speed limit in this area is 40 mph. Speeds were
collected using radar for traffic traveling in both the northbound (NB) and southbound (SB)
directions. Weather conditions at both times of data collection were clear, and the roadway
was in good condition and dry.
During the weekday collection, the study area saw a total of 101 vehicles, with 50 vehicles
traveling NB and 51 vehicles traveling SB. For NB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was
calculated at 39.7 mph. For SB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was calculated at 36.4
mph. The combined 85th percentile speed was 38.2 mph. Weekday vehicle counts by
direction and speed are shown in Exhibit 4.
During the weekend collection, the study area saw a total of 100 vehicles, with 50 vehicles
traveling NB and 50 vehicles traveling SB. For NB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was 40
mph. For SB traffic, the 85th percentile speed was 37.6 mph. The combined 85th percentile
speed was 39 mph. Weekend vehicle counts by direction and speed are shown in Exhibit
5.
Location 2: North of Ganado Drive
To measure vehicles speeds on PVDE north of Ganado Drive, additional speed data and
vehicle counts were collected on PVDE between Crest Road and Ganado Drive on a typical
weekday in January 2025. The data collection was carried out from 12:00 to 12:35 PM on
Wednesday, January 9, collecting a data sample of 103 vehicles. The posted speed limit
in this area is 35 mph. During this survey, the northbound 85th percentile speed was
measured at 35.1 mph, the southbound 85th percentile speed was measured at 37.4 mph,
and the combined 85th percentile speed was measured at 36.3 mph. Weekday vehicle
counts by direction and speed are shown in Exhibit 6.
C-22
Exhibit 4. Weekday vehicle speeds and counts on PVDE at Vista del Mar
Exhibit 5. Weekend vehicle speeds and counts on PVDE at Vista del Mar
14
8
21
7
21
16
11
3
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Under 30 mph 30-34 mph 35-39 mph 40+ mph
NB Weekday SB Weekday
2
15
22
117
26 12
5
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
Under 30 mph 30-34 mph 35-39 mph 40+ mph
NB Weekend SB Weekend
C-23
Exhibit 6. Weekday vehicle speeds and counts on PVDE between Crest and Ganado
It should be noted that the speeds on this section measured in the 2021 Engineering and
Traffic Survey were higher, but the locations of measurement were different. The survey
showed the following results:
• For the section of PVDE between Ganado Dr and Diamonte Ln, the 85th-percentile
speed was 40 mph. Speed data were collected 1000 feet east of Diamonte Lane,
at a location north of Crest Road and outside the present study area.
• For the section of PVDE between Ganado Dr and PVDS, the 85th-percentile speed
was 42 mph. Speed data were collected 2,640 feet east of PVDS, immediately
south of the switchback area.
23
17
9
3
21
15
8
7
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
Under 30 mph 30-34 mph 35-39 mph 40+ mph
NB Weekday SB Weekday
C-24
2c. Sight Distance Analysis
GTS conducted a field visit to the Ganado Drive and PVDE intersection on July 14, 2024.
A sight distance analysis was conducted at the intersection to assess sight distances for
eastbound left turns from Ganado Drive onto PVDE. This analysis requires measurement
of sight distances looking north (viewing southbound traffic) along PVDE from the left turn
lane of the Ganado Drive approach to the intersection. Photos from the sight distance
analysis with cones placed at a 300-foot distance are shown below in Exhibit 8 and Exhibit
7, which include zoomed-in views with the cone placement indicated. PVDE slopes
downhill in the southbound direction. Per the Caltrans Highway Design Manual, 7th edition
(Table 201.1), the required sight distance at a speed of 35 mph on a downhill stretch is 300
feet (250 feet plus 20% to account for downhill). At a speed of 40 mph, the required sight
distance increases to 360 feet (300 feet plus 20% to account for downhill). Since the
measured 85th-percentile speed in the southbound direction falls approximately midway
between these speeds (37.6 mph), the required sight distance is 330 feet.
It was found that when a vehicle is stopped behind the STOP bar, parked vehicles on the
west side of the spur road could block the view of southbound traffic on PVDE. Therefore,
this study recommends moving the STOP bar forward to the flow line to avoid having to
consider any additional parking restrictions on the spur road. With the STOP bar moved
forward, the sight distance exceeded 330 feet when viewing southbound traffic. The sight
distances with the stop bar moved forward to the flow line are shown in Exhibit 9.
The trees in the buffer between PVDE and the spur may partially obstruct the view. Foliage
and plants should be regularly trimmed and maintained to ensure sight distance is not
impeded.
Sight distance looking south (viewing northbound traffic) on PVDE was also verified and is
unobstructed for the required distance of 300 feet.
2d. Road Curvature and Signage
A study of the road curvature and existing speed advisory signs was carried out in the
switchbacks area of PVDE in September 2024 using a ball-bank indicator. Based on the
findings, no changes are recommended to the existing speed advisory signage.
C-25
Exhibit 7. 300' sight distance – behind stop bar
Exhibit 8. 300' sight distance – entering intersection
C-26
Exhibit 9. Sight distance triangles (with STOP bar relocated forward)
C-27
3. Collision History
Collision data for the study area were collected by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s
Department and provided to GTS by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. Data were examined
covering a 5-year period between 4/1/2019 and 3/31/2024.
There were 31 collisions within the 1.94-mile segment of PVDE during this time period in
the data available. Of these collisions, 3 occurred at the Ganado Drive and PVDE
intersection, with all 3 resulting in injury. The following details were found in the collision
data:
• Collision severity: 12 collisions resulted in Property Damage Only (39%); 4 Complaint of
Pain (13%); 6 Other Visible Injury (19%); 8 Severe Injury (26%); and 1 Fatality (3%). Of the
Severe Injury collisions, 3 involved motorcyclists and 2 involved bicyclists. The fatal collision
was a head-on collision between two passenger cars where one crossed into the opposite
lane, with unsafe speed listed as the PCF.
• Intersection collisions: 4 collisions were at the PVDE/PVDS intersection (13%). 3
collisions (10%) were at the intersection of PVDE with Ganado Drive (2 of these involved
bicyclists). One collision was at the intersection with Casalina Drive (3%).
• Mid-block collisions: 23 collisions (74%) were mid-block (not at any intersection). Of
these, 10 collisions (43%) occurred on the sharply curving “switchbacks” section of PVDE,
as can be seen on the map. This included one collision involving a bicyclist, 6 collisions
involving fixed or other objects, and 2 non-collisions where a vehicle overturned or ran off
the road.
• Involvement: There were 11 collisions of motor vehicles with fixed objects (35%); 10
collisions between moving motor vehicles (32%); 5 collisions involving motorcycles (16%);
and 4 collisions involving bicyclists (13%).
• Bicyclist collisions: Of the 4 bicyclist collisions, 2 (50%) were at the intersection with
Ganado Drive. Both of these collisions exhibit the same pattern: an eastbound motor vehicle
driver making a left turn from Ganado Drive onto northbound PVDE failed to yield right-of-
way to a southbound bicyclist proceeding straight on PVDE, resulting in a broadside
collision. One of these collisions was in daylight and one was at dusk.
• Collision types: The collision types were as follows: 11 Hit Object (35%), 6 Broadside
(19%), 5 Head-on (16%), 3 Rear-End (10%), 3 Sideswipe (10%), 2 Other (6%), and 1
Overturned (3%).
• Primary contributing factors: The primary contributing factors (PCFs) were as follows:
Unsafe Speed for 13 collisions (42%); Improper Turning for 12 collisions (39%); Auto Right-
Of-Way Violation for 2 collisions (6% - both involved bicyclists); Following Too Closely for
one collision (3%); and Other Than Driver for one collision (3%). No PCF was listed for 2
collisions (6%).
• Unsafe speed: Of the 13 collision for which the PCF was Unsafe Speed, 9 (69%) occurred
in the evening (after 5:00 PM).
• Weather: 30 collisions (97%) occurred in clear weather. One (3%) occurred in rain.
• Lighting: 15 collisions occurred in daylight (48%), 11 in the dark with no street lights (35%),
2 in the dark with street lights (6%), and 3 at dusk (10%).
• Special considerations: 6 collisions (19%) involved a driver who crossed into the opposite
lane.
• Day of Week: 8 collisions (26%) occurred on Friday and Saturday evenings or nights; 5
occurred on Sundays (16%); and the remaining 18 occurred on weekdays (58%).
C-28
3.1. Road Segment Collision Rates
The collision rate, expressed in terms of collisions per million vehicle miles traveled, is
calculated for the segment of PVDE from Crest Rd to PVDS based on average daily traffic,
segment length, number of collisions, and analysis period in days, as shown in the equation
below.
Collision Rate = Total No. of Collisions x 1,000,000
Distance x ADT x No. of Days
Where:
- Total No. of Collisions: Total Number of collisions on the segment during the analysis period
(5 years), both directions (31 collisions)
- ADT: Average Daily Traffic (vehicles/day), both directions (2,992 daily vehicles, per the 2021
citywide Engineering and Traffic Survey)
- Distance: Roadway segment distance travelled by each vehicle (1.94 miles)
- No. of Days: Number of days during the selected analysis period (5 years = 1,826 days)
Therefore, for this road segment:
Collision Rate = 31 x 1,000,000
1.94 x 2,992 x 1,826 = 31,000,000
10,598,980 = 2.92
Furthermore, there were 18 injury collisions and one fatal collision, for a total of 19 fatal
plus injury collisions. For this road segment:
Fatal + Injury Collision Rate = 19 x 1,000,000
1.94 x 2,992 x 1,826 = 19,000,000
10,598,980 = 1.79
To compare these rates with the collision rates that can be reasonably expected, the study
segment collision rates were compared to the collision rates on road segments with similar
characteristics in Caltrans District 7 (Los Angeles and Ventura Counties) using the Caltrans
publication 2022 Crash Data on California State Highways. Exhibit 10 compares the road
segment collision rates to the 2022 average collision rates for this roadway type.
Exhibit 10. 2022 collision rates, District 7, compared with subject road segment rates
Roadway Type Expected Collision Rates
Total Collisions Per Million
Vehicle Miles
Fatal + Injury Collisions
Per Million Vehicle Miles
Expected collision rates: 2 Lane and 3
Lane (District 7) 1.51 0.74
Subject Road Segment 2.92 1.79
Source: 2022 Crash Data on California State Highways (road miles, travel, crashes, crash rates). Issued by:
The California Department of Transportation
C-29
As can be seen from the above table, the collision rate on the subject road segment is
higher than that on similar roads in District 7 (Los Angeles and Ventura Counties). The rate
of injury and fatal collisions is also higher than that on similar roads in District 7.
Bicycle collision rates cannot be calculated in the same manner because data for bicycle
miles traveled are not available. However, in the same time period (4/1/2019 to 3/31/2024),
the total number of bicycle-motor vehicle collisions in the City was 30, according to the
available data. Of these 30 collisions, 4 (13%) occurred in the study area. The study area
represents 17% of the total mileage of arterial roads in the City. This suggests that bicycle
collisions are not necessarily occurring at disproportionately high rates in the study area
compared to the rest of the City.
3.2. Intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive
As stated above, there were 3 collisions between April 1, 2019 and March 31, 2024 in the
PVDE and Ganado Drive intersection. All 3 collisions resulted in injuries, with 1 causing
severe injuries. One collision was vehicle versus vehicle, while the other 2 were vehicle vs.
bicycle.
The vehicle vs. vehicle collision was between a vehicle traveling southbound on PVDE
(Vehicle 1) and a vehicle turning left onto PVDE from Ganado Drive (Vehicle 2). The
collision occurred during daylight hours with clear weather conditions. The cause of the
collision was determined to be unsafe speed for conditions by Vehicle 2. The driver
admitted in their witness statement that they were distracted due to looking at the ocean
when Vehicle 2 suddenly appeared in their line of sight when it was too late to stop. All
parties involved had minor or possible injuries.
The first vehicle vs. bicycle collision occurred in June 2019 during daylight hours with clear
weather conditions. The bicyclist was traveling southbound on PVDE and the vehicle was
making a left turn from Ganado Drive onto PVDE when the bicyclist broadsided the vehicle.
The cause of collision was determined to be failure for the vehicle to yield to cross traffic
on PVDE when making the left turn. All parties in the vehicle had minor injuries due to the
collision breaking a window. The bicyclist suffered severe injuries and was transported to
the hospital.
The second vehicle vs. bicycle collision occurred in November 2023 during dusk with clear
weather conditions. The bicyclist was traveling southbound on PVDE and the vehicle was
making a left turn from Ganado Drive onto PVDE when the bicyclist broadsided the vehicle.
The cause of the collision was determined to be failure for the vehicle to yield to cross traffic
on PVDE and resulted in a citation. The reporting officer noted that the line of sight is limited
for left-turning drivers due to the curvature of the road and that trees and bushes potentially
obstruct the view of the silhouette of a bicyclist, particularly during early evening hours. The
bicyclist suffered minor injuries.
C-30
3.3. Intersection Collision Rates
The collision rate, expressed in terms of collisions per million entering vehicles, is
calculated for the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Drive based on traffic volumes,
number of collisions, and analysis period in days, as shown in the equation below.
Collision Rate = Total No. of Collisions x 1,000,000
Entering Vehicles x No. of Days
Where:
- Total No. of Collisions: Total Number of collisions at the intersection during the 5-year
analysis period (3 collisions)
- Entering Vehicles: For a conservative approach, the bidirectional ADT (Average Daily
Traffic ) on PVDE at the traffic count location south of Ganado Drive is used (2,992 daily
vehicles, per the 2021 citywide Engineering and Traffic Survey)
- No. of Days: Number of days during the selected analysis period (5 years = 1,826 days)
Therefore, for this intersection:
Collision Rate = 3 x 1,000,000
2,992 x 1,826 = 3,000,000
5,463,392 = 0.55
Furthermore, each of these three collisions resulted in injury. Therefore, for this
intersection:
Fatal + Injury Collision Rate = 3 x 1,000,000
2,992 x 1,826 = 3,000,000
5,463,392 = 0.55
To compare these rates with the collision rates that can be reasonably expected, the study
intersection collision rates were compared to the collision rates at intersections with similar
characteristics in California using the Caltrans publication 2022 Crash Data on California
State Highways. Exhibit 11 compares the intersection collision rates to the 2022 average
collision rates for this intersection type.
Exhibit 11. 2022 collision rates, statewide, compared with subject intersection rates
Intersection Type Expected Collision Rates
Total Collisions Per Million
Entering Vehicles
Fatal + Injury Collisions
Per Million Entering
Vehicles
Expected collision rates: Suburban, T-
intersection, Stop control 0.22 0.09
Subject Intersection 0.55 0.55
Source: 2022 Crash Data on California State Highways (road miles, travel, crashes, crash rates). Issued by:
The California Department of Transportation
As can be seen from the above table, the collision rates at the intersection are higher than
the statewide rates, both for total collisions and for fatal plus injury collisions.
C-31
Exhibit 12. 5-Year Collision Map, 4/1/2019 - 3/31-2024
C-32
4. Discussion
This section presents a discussion of the various factors that were examined, and explains how
the analysis helped to inform the recommendations of this study.
4.1. Sight Distance Analysis
The sight distance analysis found that the line of sight for left-turning vehicles from Ganado Drive
onto PVDE exceeds the 330-foot minimum for 37.6 mph per the California HDM. Although the
sight distance requirements were met, it was determined that cars parked on the PVDE spur could
partially block the view of turning vehicles, and therefore it is recommended to move the STOP
bar forward to the flow line.
4.2. Bicycle-Vehicle Conflicts
While there have only been 4 bicycle-involved collisions over the 5-year collision analysis period,
two of these occurred at the PVDE and Ganado Drive intersection. Both collisions occurred
between vehicles turning left onto PVDE from Ganado Drive and bicyclists traveling southbound
on PVDE. Both collisions were determined to be caused by the vehicles failing to yield to cross
traffic. In both instances, the drivers claimed that they did not see the bicyclists.
Over the entire 1.94-mile study area, bicyclists are forced to share the road with vehicles at high
rates of speed and have no dedicated bicycle facilities. As a result, it may be more difficult for
turning vehicles to spot or remember to look for bicycles since they are mixed with traffic and
there are no indicators that they could be present such as signage or bicycle lanes on the road.
As mentioned above, despite the sight distance exceeding the 300-foot minimum, the smaller size
of bicycles makes them more difficult to spot, which can be exacerbated by surrounding foliage
or the time of day.
4.3. Safety on Southbound PVDE approaching Ganado Drive
On the southbound PVDE approach to the Ganado Drive intersection, the curve of the road is
marked by chevron alignment signs (W1-8). Based on road geometry and collision history, there
does not appear to be a specific road design issue that affects the safety of this approach.
4.4. Safety of Switchbacks on PVDE - South of Ganado Drive
The portion of PVDE somewhat south of Ganado Drive contains an area with three switchbacks
(also known as “hairpin bends”) in close succession. A previous study (April 2023) recommended
signage updates related to this section. These recommendations are summarized and carried
over to the present study (see Section 5).
C-33
5. Recommendations
The following are recommendations the City can consider to address safety concerns for drivers
and bicyclists in the study area on Palos Verdes Drive East and the intersection at Ganado Drive.
Each recommendation includes the length of time required for implementation. A summary map
of the recommendations is shown in Exhibit 14Exhibit 13.
5.1. Trim Vegetation (0-1 years)
As noted in the sight distance analysis, the vegetation on the landscaped divider between the
main part of PVDE and the small PVDE spur could potentially block the view. The vegetation
growing on the ground should be maintained and kept trimmed to a maximum height of 30 inches
(measured from the ground). This may help to address issues of the visibility of cyclists to drivers.
5.2. Replace / Upgrade Signage (0-1 years)
The previous (April 2023) study of this area suggested replacement of some existing signs in light
of new regulations (California’s 3-foot passing law) and new signage that is available per the CA-
MUTCD. These recommendations have been updated in the present study based on feedback
from the City and from residents as well as further engineering analysis.
Many of the existing signs are not in the MUTCD and have more words on them than are
necessary (and are therefore potentially more difficult for motorists to process compared to signs
with fewer words). Also, there are more signs than necessary, which may contribute to “sign
fatigue” (where motorists disregard signs because there are too many of them to process) and
may detract from the aesthetics of the area. Recommendations for sign replacement and removal
are shown in Exhibit 13 and summarized as follows:
In the uphill (northbound) direction:
• Remove sign #2 (Sloped Area / Proceed At Own Risk). This sign is posted in the uphill
direction but shows a bicycle going downhill.
• Replace sign #3 (Slow Bikes Keep Right) with “Pass Bicycle 3 Feet Minimum” (R117 (CA)).
• Remove sign #4 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Remove sign #5 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Remove sign #6 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Remove sign #7 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• Add W2-7R (Offset Side Roads) on PVDE 250 feet south of Vista Del Mar (measured from
the Vista Del Mar centerline).
• Add a speed feedback sign on PVDE 150 feet north of Ganado Drive (measured from the
Ganado Drive centerline).
• Remove sign #8 (Slow Bikes Keep Right).
• During a site visit in March 2023, sign #9 was observed to be missing the bicycle diamond
sign (W11-1). This could be replaced if it has not been already.
• Add sign #18 (R4-1) to existing W1-2 sign post.
• Ensure that trees and vegetation are trimmed so as not to block the signs.
C-34
In the downhill (southbound) direction:
• Remove sign #10 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road)
• Add W2-7R (Offset Side Roads) on PVDE 250 feet north of Ganado Drive (measured from
the Ganado Drive centerline).
• Add a speed feedback sign 460 feet north of Ganado Drive (measured from the Ganado
Drive centerline).
• Replace sign #11 (“Sloped Area / Proceed At Own Risk”) with “Watch Downhill Speed”
(SW4-1(CA)).
• Replace sign #12 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road) with “Pass Bicycle 3
Feet Minimum” (R117 (CA)).
• Remove sign #13 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road).
• Replace sign #14 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road) with “Watch Downhill
Speed” (SW4-1(CA)).
• Remove sign #15 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road).
• Remove sign #16 (Caution Watch Downhill Speed / Share the Road).
• Add W1-2(R) with R4-1 sign.
• Ensure that trees and vegetation are trimmed so as not to block the signs.
C-35
Exhibit 13. Sign and road marking recommendations
C-36
5.3. Wider edge lines (0-1 years)
As noted in the April 2023 study, wider edge lines (6 inches rather than the normal 4 inches) are
one of the countermeasures in the FHWA’s toolbox of proven safety countermeasures, and have
been shown to reduce non-intersection, fatal and injury crashes up to 37% on rural, two-lane
roads. The FHWA lists the presence of curves as a potential risk factor for which this
countermeasure may be effective. Wider edge lines could be installed along PVDE throughout
the study area.
5.4. Restripe PVDE and add bike lanes (1-3 years)
The City could consider restriping the four-lane section of PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road
to include slightly narrower vehicular lanes and bicycle lanes. With a minimum curb-to-curb width
of 52 feet, there is available space for four 10.5-foot-wide travel lanes plus 5-foot-wide Class II
bicycle lanes in each direction. An existing typical cross-section for this area is shown in Exhibit
15 and an example of this proposed restriping, adding bicycle lanes, is shown in Exhibit 16. In the
area of PVDE directly north of the intersection with Ganado Drive, where there is a right turn lane
for vehicles turning onto Ganado Drive, the bicycle lane (intended for bicyclists proceeding
straight) would be positioned between the right turn lane and the vehicular through lane, as shown
in Exhibit 18. This is standard practice for bicycle lanes adjacent to right turn lanes as it is
assumed that bicyclists turning right can use the right turn lane.
There is also the possibility of reducing the number of vehicular travel lanes (particularly reducing
the length of the merging lanes) and using the extra space to create buffered or Class IV protected
bike lanes; this would require further analysis. If bike lanes are added, green paint should be
added to intersections to increase bike lane visibility. An example is shown in Exhibit 14.
Exhibit 14. Intersection with painted green striping for bicycles (source: newsobserver.com)
C-37
Exhibit 15. Existing typical cross-section of PVDE, looking north, between Crest Rd. and Ganado Dr.
Exhibit 16. Proposed cross-section restriped to include bicycle lanes in each direction
C-38
Exhibit 17. Existing cross-section of PVDE directly north of Ganado Dr., looking north
Exhibit 18. Proposed cross-section of PVDE directly north of Ganado Dr., looking north, showing position of bicycle lanes
C-39
5.5. Reduced Speed Limit
As noted earlier, the speed survey just north of Ganado on PVDE showed an 85th percentile speed
of 36.3 mph. The speed survey just south of Ganado showed 85th percentile speeds of 38.2 and
39 mph for weekday and Saturday respectively.
Per CVC Section 22358.6, the City can round down the above numbers to lowest 5 mph yielding
a posted speed limit of 35mph in line with the currently posted speed limit.
Given the high collision rate, the presence of a nearby university campus which has the potential
to generate pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and the terrain and switchbacks, the City can further
reduce the speed limit by 5 mph to 30 mph per CVC Section 22358.7.
It is recommended that the City reduces the posted speed limit on PVDE between Crest Rd and
PVDS especially in conjunction with adding the bike lanes described in the previous section.
5.6. Other Safety Countermeasures
Given the collision history and rates in the study area, the City could consider implementing other
proven safety countermeasures from the FHWA toolbox, not only for bicyclists but for all traffic.
The following safety countermeasures could be beneficial given the characteristics of the road
and the types of collisions that have occurred:
• In-lane curve warning pavement markings, which could be installed in advance of the
approaches to the curves.
• Dynamic curve warning signs, which could be installed in advance of the approaches to
the curves.
6. References
CalBike. Three Feet for Safety.
https://www.calbike.org/our_initiatives/give_me_3/#:~:text=In%202013%2C%20after%20
three%20years,when%20passing%20people%20riding%20bikes.
California, State of. California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. 2014 edition, Revision
6 (March 30, 2021).
FHWA. Proven Safety Countermeasures. https://highways.dot.gov/safety/proven-safety-
countermeasures
Rancho Palos Verdes, City of. Engineering and Traffic Survey (Dec. 2021).
C-40
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
May 5, 2025
Dear Resident,
The City of Rancho Palos Verdes invites you to attend a Rancho Palos Verdes City
Council Meeting to discuss recommendations from a traffic study for Palos Verdes Drive
East (PVDE) between Crest Road and Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS), with a focus
on the area around Ganado Drive.
The City Council will be asked to consider the following key recommendations:
(1) Set a 35 miles per hour speed limit for PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS.
(2) Add bicycle lanes on PVDE from Crest Road to Vista Del Mar and reduce the
vehicle lane widths to 10.5 feet.
(3) Upgrade traffic signs and pavement markings along PVDE.
(4) Modify vegetation in the landscape divider between PVDE and the PVDE
Service Road around Ganado Drive to enhance sight distance.
(5) Prioritize traffic enforcement in the area.
You are invited to provide public input on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
In-person at:
Fred Hesse Community Park, McTaggart Hall
29301 Hawthorne Blvd
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Or
Virtually via Zoom
If you wish to attend virtually, please complete the Public Participation Form at
https://rpvca.gov/1656/PUBLIC-MEETING-PARTICIPATION-PORTAL.
The City Council agenda will be available on the City website by May 13 and can be
found at https://www.rpvca.gov/772/City-Meeting-Video-and-Agendas.
If you have questions, please contact Public Works at 310-544-5252 or
publicworks@rpvca.gov.
We encourage you to attend the meeting to voice your opinion.
Sincerely,
30940 HAWTHORNE BLVD. / RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA 90275-5391 / (310) 544-5200 / WWW.RPVCA.GOV
Ramzi Awwad
Director of Public Works
C-41
Public Comment 1 – Al Chelini
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2025 6:14 PM
To: Al C <chelinial@gmail.com>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: Input for the TSC agenda for PV Drive East at Ganado Drive
Good evening AL,
On behalf of Director Awwad, we thank you for providing your input.
The issues described below were not identified by the HOA or by the traffic study, as such we encourage
you to participate and speak in the upcoming April 15, 2025 City Council Meeting for which the PVDE at
Ganado Traffic Study recommendations is included in the Tentative CC meeting Agenda.
From: Al C <chelinial@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, December 30, 2024 1:41 PM
To: PublicWorks <PublicWorks@rpvca.gov>
Subject: Input for the TSC agenda for PV Drive East at Ganado Drive
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
Mr. Awwad and Staff:
I wish to draw the City’s attention to a hazardous situation in conjunction with the TSC
meeting regarding the intersection at Palos Verdes Drive East with Ganado Drive.
Please refer to the attached map.
The existing median island should extends too far into the intersection, creating a
situation where any southbound vehicle attempting to turn right onto Ganado must
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C-42
negotiate an unnecessarily sharp turn. Thus, vehicles frequently strike the side of or
actually mount the curb during a turn.
Years ago, LASO stationed a deputy west of the intersection to ticket drivers who
crossed over the double yellow lines, which indicates there's a problem with the current
configuration.
One can see that the face of the island’s curb has a permanent rubber-coated vertical
face from being constantly struck by vehicles over the years. Please see the attached
photo.
I was personally involved when following an open-bed landscape truck that was loaded
with sand. The driver climbed the curb and spilled about 10 gallons of loose sand in the
turn when the rear wheels struck the ground.
I was following that stake-bed truck while riding a motorcycle and would not have been
able to complete the turn without spilling (crashing) the motorcycle due to the loss of
adhesion from the loose sand in the turn.
My only solution was to go straight ahead and brake very heavily in the eastbound
lanes of Ganado. I accomplished this safely but with little margin for error. I was lucky.
If a car had been present in these eastbound lanes, there would have been a serious
accident.
I suggest decreasing the intrusion of the island a few feet, perhaps back to a line
abeam of the stop’s white limit line, thereby increasing the radius of the right turn.
Please refer to the red line on the attached map. Thanks for your consideration.
Al Chelini
Rockwell Space Shuttle Project Engineer, retired
3439 Coolheights Dr.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
C-43
Public Comment 2 – Allison Brandt
From: Allison Brandt <abrandt@rabprop.com>
Sent: Tuesday, January 28, 2025 6:48 AM
To: Cheri Bailiff <Cherib@rpvca.gov>
Cc: Traffic <Traffic@rpvca.gov>; rjgagliano (null) <rjgagliano@aol.com>; Ron Brandt <brandt@cfc-
sys.com>; sedlachek@aol.com
Subject: Re: Traffic Safety Committee Meeting Feedback
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
Dear Cheri,
I am concerned that the strong cyclist lobby will influence the decision of the traffic
committee. Even though they show up in force with many people to these meetings, I truly
hope that the decision will be fair to the residents. When will the decision be made?
Allison Brandt
General Manager
RAB Properties, LLC
310-901-6673
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C-44
Public Comment 3 – Robert J Gagliano
From: rjgagliano (null) <rjgagliano@aol.com>
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 6:33 PM
To: Noel Casil <ncasil@rpvca.gov>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>; Allison Brandt <abrandt@rabprop.com>; Ron Brandt
<brandt@cfc-sys.com>
Subject: Re: Item2 of letter sent to home owners regarding adding a bike lane, etc (“the letter”)
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
Thank you for the timely notice of the decision re bike lanes on Crest Road East. While I do
not agree with the decision we have to live with the decision, like it or not. It is abundantly
clear the bike lobby is powerful and embraced by the Traffic Safety Committee and the City
Council. It’s unfortunate that all the time, money and effort placed on this subject will be a
waste of time for everybody but the biker lobby group. The bikers will not, repeat will not
follow the rules and use the new bike lane as required. I would suggest we have a sheriff on
Crest on a Saturday morning around 9 or 10am and begin citing these bikers and therefore
enforcing the laws on the bikers. The California Vehicle Code (CVC) fully applies to
bicyclists as well as motor vehicles, yet the bikers do not follow the CVC. The bikers use
the CVC as their primary tool for their freedom do as they please. Well, It’s long overdue to
begin citing bikers for their traffic violations as set forth in the CVC. Be aware, the
aforementioned decision will essentially turn the section of Crest into a two lane road
during heavy bike traffic as bikers will be infringing on the right lane in both directions.
Robert J Gagliano
Sent from my iPhone Pro Max
On Feb 21, 2025, at 4:45 PM, Noel Casil <ncasil@rpvca.gov> wrote:
Good afternoon Robert,
On behalf of Director Awwad, we thank you for providing your input.
Regarding the bike lanes, the traffic study recommended the addition of bike lanes by restriping the
four-lane section of PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road to include slightly narrower vehicular
lanes and bicycle lanes and there will not be a reduction in the number of vehicular lanes rather
just the width. This recommendation was supported by the Traffic Safety Committee (TSC).
We encourage your continued input and participation in the upcoming April 15, 2025, City Council
Meeting for which the PVDE at Ganado Traffic Study recommendations from the TSC is included in
the Tentative City Council Meeting Agenda for consideration.
C-45
From: rjgagliano (null)
To: Cheri Bailiff
Cc: Allison Brandt; Ron Brandt; Debbie Sedlachek
Subject: Item2 of letter sent to home owners regarding adding a bike lane, etc (“the letter”)
Date: Monday, January 27, 2025 4:40:26 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and
know the
content is safe!!!.
I have read a letter from Allison Brandt and comments to you from Ron Brandt and Debbie
Sedlachek regarding an
additional bike lane etc. I fully support their concerns and comments. We have some dangerous
situations with bike
riders in our area and the proposed changes in the letter will only make our ingress and egress
more dangerous for
drivers and bike riders.
Thank you,
Robert J Gagliano
14 Avenida De Azalea
Rancho Palos Verdes
Sent from my iPhone Pro Max
C-46
Public Comment 4 – Ron Brandt
From: Ron Brandt <ron.brandt@astranahealth.com>
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 7:12 PM
To: rjgagliano <rjgagliano@aol.com>
Cc: Noel Casil <ncasil@rpvca.gov>; Allison Brandt <abrandt@rabprop.com>; Ron Brandt <brandt@cfc-
sys.com>
Subject: Re: [External Message] Re: Item2 of letter sent to home owners regarding adding a bike lane,
etc (“the letter”)
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
Absolutely agree that a sheriff should be posted, cyclist should be cited when they violate
traffic laws.
Sent from my iPhone
Thanks
Ronald Brandt
brandt@cfc-sys.com
Phone (310) 436-0202 Fax (310) 436-0208
19210 S. Vermont Ave, Bldg D, Suite 400
Gardena, CA 90248
This communication is intended for the use of the individual or entity to which it is
addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise
exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient, you are
hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is
strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the
sender and delete any copies. Thank you.
On Feb 21, 2025, at 6:38 PM, rjgagliano (null) <rjgagliano@aol.com> wrote:
Correction, I meant PVDE, not Crest, my typo. Please replace every reference to Crest
with PVDE.
Thank you
Robert J Gagliano
Sent from my iPhone Pro Max
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C-47
On Feb 21, 2025, at 6:32 PM, rjgagliano (null) <rjgagliano@aol.com> wrote:
Thank you for the timely notice of the decision re bike lanes on Crest Road East. While I do
not agree with the decision we have to live with the decision, like it or not. It is abundantly
clear the bike lobby is powerful and embraced by the Traffic Safety Committee and the City
Council. It’s unfortunate that all the time, money and effort placed on this subject will be a
waste of time for everybody but the biker lobby group. The bikers will not, repeat will not
follow the rules and use the new bike lane as required. I would suggest we have a sheriff on
Crest on a Saturday morning around 9 or 10am and begin citing these bikers and therefore
enforcing the laws on the bikers. The California Vehicle Code (CVC) fully applies to
bicyclists as well as motor vehicles, yet the bikers do not follow the CVC. The bikers use
the CVC as their primary tool for their freedom do as they please. Well, It’s long overdue to
begin citing bikers for their traffic violations as set forth in the CVC. Be aware, the
aforementioned decision will essentially turn the section of Crest into a two lane road
during heavy bike traffic as bikers will be infringing on the right lane in both directions.
Robert J Gagliano
Sent from my iPhone Pro Max
On Feb 21, 2025, at 4:45 PM, Noel Casil <ncasil@rpvca.gov> wrote:
Good afternoon Robert,
On behalf of Director Awwad, we thank you for providing your input.
Regarding the bike lanes, the traffic study recommended the addition of bike lanes by restriping the
four-lane section of PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road to include slightly narrower vehicular
lanes and bicycle lanes and there will not be a reduction in the number of vehicular lanes rather
just the width. This recommendation was supported by the Traffic Safety Committee (TSC).
We encourage your continued input and participation in the upcoming April 15, 2025, City Council
Meeting for which the PVDE at Ganado Traffic Study recommendations from the TSC is included in
the Tentative City Council Meeting Agenda for consideration.
<Picture (Device Independent Bitmap) 1.jpg>
From: rjgagliano (null)
To: Cheri Bailiff
Cc: Allison Brandt; Ron Brandt; Debbie Sedlachek
C-48
Subject: Item2 of letter sent to home owners regarding adding a bike lane, etc (“the letter”)
Date: Monday, January 27, 2025 4:40:26 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and
know the
content is safe!!!.
I have read a letter from Allison Brandt and comments to you from Ron Brandt and Debbie
Sedlachek regarding an
additional bike lane etc. I fully support their concerns and comments. We have some dangerous
situations with bike
riders in our area and the proposed changes in the letter will only make our ingress and egress
more dangerous for
drivers and bike riders.
Thank you,
Robert J Gagliano
14 Avenida De Azalea
Rancho Palos Verdes
Sent from my iPhone Pro Max
Disclaimer
The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for use by the
recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any
disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictly prohibited
and may be unlawful.
This email has been scanned for viruses and malware, and may have been automatically archived by Mimecast, a
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building a more resilient world. To find out more, visit our website.
C-49
Public Comment 5 – Allison Brandt
From: Allison Brandt <abrandt@rabprop.com>
Sent: Friday, February 28, 2025 8:53 AM
To: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>; Noel Casil <ncasil@rpvca.gov>
Cc: Ron L Brandt <brandt@ihealthmd.com>; sedlachek@aol.com; rgagliano@aol.com
Subject: Fwd: Friday morning 8:15am
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
Good morning . Please see photo of bike group riding uphill this morning . I was pulling out
of lower driveway of our neighborhood. They were occupying the whole lane going up
hill. This is not sharing the road and causes a very dangerous situation if the cyclists don’t
stay to the right . This is what we’re dealing with . Do not give them more rights in our area ,
it’s a real problem .
Allison Brandt
General Manager
RAB Properties, LLC
310-901-6673
This communication is intended for the use of the individual or entity to which it is
addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise
exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient, you
are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication
is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the
sender and delete any copies.
Begin forwarded message:
From: Allison Brandt <abrandt@rabprop.com>
Date: February 28, 2025 at 8:16:34 AM PST
To: Allison Brandt <abrandt@rabprop.com>
Subject: Friday morning 8:15am
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C-50
Allison Brandt
General Manager
RAB Properties, LLC
310-901-6673
This communication is intended for the use of the individual or entity to which it is
addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise
exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient, you
C-51
are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication
is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the
sender and delete any copies.
C-52
Public Comment 6 – Deborah Sedlachek
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 2:10 PM
To: Deborah Sedlachek (sedlachek@aol.com) <sedlachek@aol.com>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: Traffic Safety Committee Meeting Feedback
Good afternoon Deborah,
On behalf of Director Awwad, we thank you for providing your input.
The traffic study recommended the addition of bike lanes by restriping the four-lane section of PVDE
from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road to include slightly narrower vehicular lanes and bicycle lanes and
there will not be a reduction in the number of vehicular lanes rather just the width. This
recommendation was supported by the Traffic Safety Committee (TSC).
We encourage your continued input and participation in the upcoming April 15, 2025, City Council
Meeting for which the PVDE at Ganado Traffic Study recommendations from the TSC is included in
the Tentative City Council Meeting Agenda for consideration.
From: sedlachek
To: Allison Brandt; Traffic
Cc: rjgagliano (null); Ron Brandt
Subject: Re: Traffic Safety Committee Meeting Feedback
Date: Monday, January 27, 2025 10:03:36 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and
know the
content is safe!!!.
Well said Allison, I totally agree with your assessment. The cyclists on the weekends are
especially difficult to navigate, they congregate at the UCLA parking lot and are on large
C-53
groups sometimes 2-3 abreast impossible to pass.
Weekdays it’s the school traffic as you’ve indicated long lines for dropoff and pickup.
It’s absolutely unnecessary to have a bike lane for recreational bicyclists, if they stay to the
right of the road they’re should be no issue.
Deborah Sedlachek
10 Paseo de Castana
Rancho Palos Verdes
Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
C-54
Public Comment 7 – Kurt Muller
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 3:22 PM
To: 534mp <534mp@cox.net>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: attn: Ramzi Awwad, PVE @ Ganado
Good afternoon Kurt,
On behalf of Director Awwad, we thank you for providing your input.
Regarding your suggestion for speed humps, the Traffic Study did not recommend the
installation of speed humps since they are not appropriate for this type of roadway as they
mostly used for low volume and low speed residential streets where warranted. Palos
Verdes Drive East is multi-lane arterial where the posted speed limits are 35 mph from
Crest Road to Ganado Drive, and 40 mph from Ganado Drive to PVDS.
Regarding the prohibition of bicycles, please note that the City does not have the legal
authority to prohibit bicyclists because that right is in the California Vehicle Code.
We encourage your continued input and participation in the upcoming April 15, 2025, City
Council Meeting for which the PVDE at Ganado Traffic Study recommendations from the
TSC is included in the Tentative City Council Meeting Agenda for consideration.
From: 534mp <534mp@cox.net>
Sent: Monday, January 27, 2025 11:59 AM
To: PublicWorks <PublicWorks@rpvca.gov>
Subject: attn: Ramzi Awwad, PVE @ Ganado
C-55
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
I'm unable to attend or participate in tonight's meeting, but I have some input.
SPEED HUMPS. These traffic controls appear to be very effective in speed reduction
and as we can see in the Crestwood area, can be placed on roadways with an incline.
This speed mitigation feature could also be employed on the switchbacks.
PROHIBIT CYCLING ON PVE. The very narrow, winding, and congested nature of the
entirety of PVE, cycling has become increasingly problematic as a traffic hazard. With
the long term prospects of PVS still unknown as to use by cyclists, will only result in
greater cyclist traffic on PVE. The behavior of many cyclists on the road needs no
discussion.
Kurt Muller, 31304 Floweridge Dr., RPV.
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C-56
Public Comment 8 – Robert Cullinan
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 4:16 PM
To: 'Robert Cullinan' <brittaproducts@gmail.com>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: Crest Road traffic meeting - today 1/27/25
Good afternoon Robert,
I just wanted to clarify that the response below is for the Palos Verdes Drive East but is also
generally applicable for Crest Road.
The traffic study was limited to the segment of Palos Verdes Drive East between Crest
Road and Palos Verdes Drive South and the intersection at Ganado Drive.
The response below will similarly apply to Crest Road as the characteristics are similar in
function – conveying and collecting traffic from the local street that feed into these
main roadways.
Please let us know if you have any questions.
_____________________________________________
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 3:59 PM
To: 'Robert Cullinan' <brittaproducts@gmail.com>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: Crest Road traffic meeting - today 1/27/25
C-57
Good afternoon Robert,
On behalf of Director Awwad, we thank you for providing your input.
Regarding your suggestion for speed humps, the Traffic Study did not recommend the
installation of speed humps since they are not appropriate for this type of roadway as they
are mostly used for low volume and low speed residential streets where warranted. Palos
Verdes Drive East is multi-lane arterial where the posted speed limits are 35 mph from
Crest Road to Ganado Drive, and 40 mph from Ganado Drive to PVDS.
Regarding the de-marking of bicycle lanes, the Traffic Study recommended the addition of
bike lanes by re-striping the four-lane section of PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road to
include slightly narrower vehicular lanes and bicycle lanes and there will not be a
reduction in the number of vehicular lanes rather just the width. The engineering design will
take into consideration the separation of bike and vehicular traffic to the extent feasible.
Regarding speed camera and/or digital speed displays, the law does not currently
authorize RPV to use speed cameras, the City however has deployed speed feedback
display signs at various locations if recommended by a Traffic Study and supported by the
Traffic Safety Committee (TSC).
We encourage your continued input and participation in the upcoming April 15, 2025, City
Council Meeting for which the PVDE at Ganado Traffic Study recommendations from the
TSC is included in the Tentative City Council Meeting Agenda for consideration.
C-58
Public Comment 9 – Solomon Campbell
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 4:35 PM
To: Solomon Campbell (solomoncampbell@aol.com) <solomoncampbell@aol.com>
Subject: Proposed speed limit change by Ganado
Good afternoon Solomon,
On behalf of Director Awwad, we thank you for providing your input.
Regarding your comment about the speed reduction to 30 mph, the Traffic Study
recommended the reduction of the speed from 40 mph to 35 mph. This recommendation
was supported by the Traffic Safety Committee (TSC).
We encourage your continued input and participation in the upcoming April 15, 2025, City
Council Meeting for which the PVDE at Ganado Traffic Study recommendations from the
TSC is included in the Tentative City Council Meeting Agenda for consideration.
From: solomoncampbell@aol.com
Sent: Monday, January 27, 2025 4:02 PM
To: TSC
Subject: Proposed speed limit change by Ganado
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe!!!.
Hello
I'm writing to share my strong opposition to the speed limit being reduced to 30 miles an
hour. I think it is
C-59
absolutely ridiculous that we do that because the speeders are still going to speed. All this
is going to be
is a revenue generating scheme to catch local residents inadvertently going above the
speed limit down
the hill. The bike riders certainly aren't going to obey the 30 mile an hour speed limit.
Indeed, they come
over here to ride so they can exceed 30 even 40 miles an hour.
I sincerely hope the council does not proceed with this ridiculous recommendation.
Regards,
C-60
Public Comment 10 – Jan Springer
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2025 5:22 PM
To: Jan Springer <janspringerhha@gmail.com>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: follow up to your bike lane thing
Good afternoon Jan,
Regarding the bike lane, the traffic study recommended the addition of bike lanes by restriping the
four-lane section of PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest Road to include slightly narrower vehicular
lanes and bicycle lanes and there will not be a reduction in the number of vehicular lanes rather
just the width. This recommendation contained in the Staff report was supported by the Traffic
Safety Committee (TSC).
The Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) voted to recommend to the City Council, the Staff
recommendations in the Staff Report with the exception that a speed study start six months after
implementation and evaluation be brought back to the TSC; prioritize traffic enforcement in this
area; and ask the Traffic Engineer to again review signage approaching Palos Verdes Drive East and
Ganado Drive and include signage enhancements.
From: Jan Springer <janspringerhha@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, February 3, 2025 12:32 PM
To: PublicWorks <PublicWorks@rpvca.gov>
Subject: follow up to your bike lane thing
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
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important
C-61
I unfortunately I was unable to attend the addition of bike lanes which of course
narrows our already small car lanes for our beloved crazy bikers.
Can you tell me what happen?
thanks
Jan Springer
--
Jan Springer RN
janspringerhha@gmail.com
310-567-0498
C-62
Public Comment 11 – Phil Adler
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, April 18, 2025 9:50 AM
To: Phil Adler <philatpv@gmail.com>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: Traffic Study - PV Drive East at Ganado
Good morning Phil,
My name is Noel Casil, and I am a Senior Engineer in the Public Works Department with the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes. I am writing to follow up on your question why a stop sign across PV Drive
East was not included among the choices of improvements. As you know, PV Drive East is
classified as a major road and arterial in the RPV General Plan Circulation Element which
established a hierarchy of roadways in the City’s roadway circulation system. Currently, the
intersections at each end of the study segment PV Drive East are controlled by traffic signals, while
the other intersections (Casalina Drive, Ganado Drive, and Vista Del Mar) are controlled by stop
signs for the minor streets.
Based on traffic engineering guidelines used in the State of California, the traffic consultant
conducted an engineering study of traffic conditions, pedestrian characteristics, and physical
characteristics of the location to determine whether the installation of a traffic signal is justified at
this location. As part of the traffic study, the traffic consultant collected traffic volume and speed
data, analyzed traffic, collision history, and road design in the study area.
The traffic consultant concluded that the installation of traffic signal or a stop sign on PV Drive East
was not recommended because it does not meet the guidelines and requirements for a traffic
signal or 3-way stop-controlled intersection. A very important criterion is that it did not meet the
requirements for a traffic signal control for which a 3-way stop can be installed as an interim
measure.
It must be noted that stop signs work well to assign vehicle right-of-way at intersections. However,
overuse of stop signs will increase drivers’ tendencies for rolling stops or not even stopping at
all. Furthermore, installing stop signs is not recommended for speed control and if installed
without traffic engineering justification, it will be subject to challenge and also become a liability
for the City.
Given the location’s characteristics, the consultant did not recommend additional stop signs for
PV Drive East at Ganado Drive based on the reasons described above.
We appreciate your feedback and participation and please let me know if you have any questions.
C-63
From: Phil Adler <philatpv@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 16, 2025 1:07 PM
To: PublicWorks <PublicWorks@rpvca.gov>
Subject: Traffic Study
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
I received the attached notice from RPV recently. I was struck by one glaring
omission. Why isn't the installation of stop signs on PV Drive East at the intersection of
Ganado included among the choices?
That might actually save some lives one day.
Thanks for your attention to this matter.
Phillip Adler
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C-64
Public Comment 12 - Rochelle Krieger
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Friday, April 4, 2025 10:35 AM
To: ROCHELLE KRIEGER <thebunny1@cox.net>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: Cross walk for pedestrians crossing Ganado Dr and heading to the PV Drive East cul de sac
to contine walking up PV Drive East
Good morning Rochelle,
Thank you for your input. This will be added to the public comments and correspondence for the
PV Drive East at Ganado Drive City Council agenda item.
This agenda item previously scheduled for April 15th has been rescheduled for the May 20th City
Council meeting.
From: ROCHELLE KRIEGER <thebunny1@cox.net>
Sent: Thursday, April 3, 2025 6:51 PM
To: Noel Casil <ncasil@rpvca.gov>
Subject: Cross walk for pedestrians crossing Ganado Dr and heading to the PV Drive East cul de sac to
contine walking up PV Drive East
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
Rochelle Krieger
31227 Floweridge Dr.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Ncasil@ rpvca.gov
Senior Engineer at Public Works
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C-65
4/3/25
This email is being written to request considering a cross walk to be installed for
pedestrians who walk on Ganado Drive towards the cul de sac on Palos Verdes Drive
East. There are no markings on this major intersection for pedestrians to safely cross
the street. Cars driving on Ganado Drive towards PV Drive East drive at a fast pace as
do the cars that are turning right at the corner from Palos Verdes Drive East onto
Ganado Drive. Many people in this neighborhood are daily walkers and cross this
intersection. It is a dangerous crossing as the cars enter and leave the area at a rapid
pace and it presents a challenge for the walker to safely cross the street.
Since you are working on making our area safer please consider providing a safe way
for pedestrians to cross the street at the corner of Ganado Drive and Palos Verdes
Drive East.
It would be a wonderful improvement to our area.
Thank you for considering this improvement.
Rochelle Krieger
C-66
Public Comment 13 - Catherine Zyetz
From: Noel Casil
Sent: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 5:45 PM
To: Catherine Zyetz <zyetzc@gmail.com>
Cc: Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>; Ramzi Awwad <rawwad@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: As is and potential to be map of PVDE between Crest Rd and PVDS
Good afternoon Catherine,
Thank you for your input. At this time, a City Council agenda item is scheduled on May 20th, seeking
consideration to approve the recommended improvements for PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS.
The proposed improvements between on PVDE in particular the segment between Ganado Drive and
Crest Road will take into consideration the operational aspects of turning in and out of Casilina Road and
merging with either the northbound or southbound traffic.
There are no engineered plans yet and design considerations described above are addressed during the
detailed engineering design by the City's engineering consultant should this project be approved to
move forward by the City Council.
Please let us know if you have any other questions.
-----Original Message-----
From: Catherine Zyetz <zyetzc@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 1:42 PM
To: PublicWorks <PublicWorks@rpvca.gov>
Subject: As is and potential to be map of PVDE between Crest Rd and PVDS
C-67
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is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
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Hi,
I wanted to see what the proposed lane adjustments would be to PVDE particularly between Ganado
Drive and Crest Road.
On a daily basis I make a left turn from Casalina Drive onto PVDE which requires monitoring PVDE traffic
in both directions including the southbound drivers who are in the right hand turn lane (and typically
move over at the last minute) and those northbound drivers coming up from the switchbacks at a high
rate of speed. Many times I have pulled out into the PVDE northbound near lane to find a car moving
quickly up the far lane. It is important that the ability to make that left hand turn safely include having
an open lane to complete the turn.
Thank you for providing a map to understand the proposed changes. I did not see anything posted on
www.rpvca.gov.
Catherine Zyetz
C-68
Public Comment 14 - Susan Brooks
From: Ara Mihranian <AraM@rpvca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:43 AM
To: Susan Brooks Consulting <brooks.sbc@gmail.com>; David Bradley
<david.bradley@rpvca.gov>; Stephen Perestam <stephen.perestam@rpvca.gov>;
Paul.seo@pvca.gov; Barbara Ferraro <barbara.ferraro@rpvca.gov>; George Lewis
<George.Lewis@rpvca.gov>; Ramzi Awwad <rawwad@rpvca.gov>; CC <CC@rpvca.gov>
Cc: subrooks8@gmail.com <subrooks.8@gmail.com>; Drake, Peter A <Peter.a.drake@bofa.com>;
bertharomero@cox.net; Teresa Cordova <jtcordova@sbcglobal.net>; Tina Nunez
<tina_klly@att.net>; phyllisweitzman@cox.net; John Maniatakis <jmaniataki@aol.com>; Fimi
Manuelian Zerounian <flzerounian@gmail.com>; designtwin36@gmail.com;
homeowners069@gmail.com homeowners069@gmail.com <homeowners069@gmail.com>;
Jennifer Schmid <jschmid@rpvca.gov>; Guerrero, Kimberly <kguerre@lasd.org>
Subject: RE: Traffic Issue for 5/20/25 meeting
Good morning Susan,
First and foremost, we hope you are well!
Thank you for taking the time to provide additional insight on the traffic matter along Palos Verdes
Drive East between Crest Road East and Palos Verdes Drive South (switchback) including a request
for increased enforcement.
The City has requested increased sheriff patrols along the switchbacks and continues to authorize
overtime patrols in the area as well.
Additionally, the City’s ALPR Camera Trailer will be stationed along the Switchbacks later this
month (repairs to the trailer are near complete).
I have copied Cpt. Guerrero and the City’s Public Safety Manager Jen Schmid for their awareness.
Your email and this response will be attached to the staff report that will publish this evening.
Take care,
Ara
C-69
From: Susan Brooks Consulting <brooks.sbc@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 8:12 AM
To: David Bradley <david.bradley@rpvca.gov>; Stephen Perestam <stephen.perestam@rpvca.gov>;
Paul.seo@pvca.gov; Barbara.ferrero@rpvca.gov; George Lewis <George.Lewis@rpvca.gov>; Ramzi
Awwad <rawwad@rpvca.gov>; Ara Mihranian <AraM@rpvca.gov>
Cc: subrooks8@gmail.com <subrooks.8@gmail.com>; Drake, Peter A <Peter.a.drake@bofa.com>;
bertharomero@cox.net; Teresa Cordova <jtcordova@sbcglobal.net>; Tina Nunez
<tina_klly@att.net>; phyllisweitzman@cox.net; John Maniatakis <jmaniataki@aol.com>; Fimi
Manuelian Zerounian <flzerounian@gmail.com>; designtwin36@gmail.com;
homeowners069@gmail.com homeowners069@gmail.com <homeowners069@gmail.com>
Subject: Traffic Issue for 5/20/25 meeting
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender
and know the content is safe!!!.
Dear Mayor Bradley and Councilmembers,
The proposed traffic solution for Ganado and PVDE, addresses some key issues plaguing this
area for years.
We participated in a productive Traffic Safety Committee in January. In addition to the
proposed changes, the Mira Catalina neighborhood has spoken about some other issues
needing attention.
C-70
1. Casilina @PVDE. Signage for turns is inconsistent. Right arrow from Crest is too short
a distance, making it difficult for cars not turning to enter back into the main
southbound lane. The biggest offenders are the cyclists who speed down from Crest
on PVDE at the Casilina intersection. Cyclists have been hit by vehicles trying to merge
onto PVDE. The visibility is limited for motorists exiting Casilina. A Bicycle lane would
only make it worse if cyclists did not have signage to slow down for Casilina
intersection.
2. Crest @ PVDE. Crossing Crest at any time of day has become a nightmare for
pedestrians. Individuals blow through the traffic signal and continue on down to PVDE
from both Crest and southbound PVDE . Mitigation measures were addressed at the
January Traffic Mtg. Perhaps flashing buttons in addition to the signal for pedestrians
wishing to cross the street could be considered. ALLPR cameras in this location would
also be helpful.
Of course, our biggest problem for decades has been need for enforcement. Prior to the
COVID epidemic, we had a patrol car dedicated to the East/south corridor. As a former 3 time
Mayor over 30yrs, and Chair of Regional Law Enforcement, I made it a priority to see to the
needs of the seemingly lost and forgotten East Side residents.
Recent accidents at Ganado, another death on with a motorcyclist the switchbacks, occurred
with motorcyclists. Lowering the speed limit to the proposed 35 on the Switchbacks WITH
ENFORCEMENT might help. However, this area is now a haven for motorcyclists who will
not obey the speed limit regardless of the speed number posted. Reasonable motorists know
to slow down, unreasonable ones either don’t know or do not care. They know the odds of a
patrol car are negligible.
Enforcement is key to any changes. We had 5 patrol cars for RPV during my last tenure as
Mayor in 2018. Dedicating just one car to this area, with emphasis on weekends will go a long
way to educating others about the dangerous curves and turns only PVDE.
Please consider adding monitored enforcement at this area in addition to considering the
aforementioned issues did importance.
Thank you for your dedicated service to our Paradise we call Rancho Palos Verdes.
C-71
Best Regards,
Susan Brooks
President, Mira Catalina Homeowner's Associationr
--
Susan Brooks
Former Mayor, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
Mediator, Advocacy
www.susanbrooksconsulting.com
Independent Wine Consultant
http://my.boissetcollection.com/susanbrooks
C-72
Public Comment 15 – Ross Huffman
From: Ramzi Awwad <rawwad@rpvca.gov>
Sent: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 10:59 AM
To: ROSS HUFFMAN <rossmh1@cox.net>
Cc: Noel Casil <ncasil@rpvca.gov>; Deanna Fraley <dfraley@rpvca.gov>
Subject: RE: PVDE
Dear Ross Huffman,
Thank you for your comment, it will be provided to the City Council as part of the Palos Verdes Drive
East from Crest Road to Palos Verdes Drive South Traffic Measures staff report.
The City is facing budget realities whereby we are unable to complete all desired projects because of the
magnitude of expenditures incurred responding to landslide movement and repairing damaged
infrastructure. Therefore, the City Council will face difficult decisions among many competing priorities
across a range of needs.
More information on the budget can be found in the staff report for the City Council Budget Workshop
here: https://rpv.granicus.com/player/clip/4789?view_id=5&redirect=true and the video of the
accompanying City Council discussion here:
https://rpv.granicus.com/player/clip/4789?view_id=5&meta_id=127160&redirect=true.
The proposed budget will be presented to the City Council at their June 3, 2025 meeting and
subsequently, a public hearing for budget adoption will be held by the City Council on June 17, 2025.
Please let me know if you would like information on how to attend those meeting virtually or in-person.
Sincerely,
Ramzi Awwad
Director of Public
Works
rawwad@rpvca.gov
Phone - (310) 544-5275
Address:
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
90275
Website: www.rpvca.gov
This e-mail message contains information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, which may be privileged,
confidential, and/or protected from disclosure. The information is intended only for use of the individual or
entity named. Unauthorized dissemination, distribution, or copying is strictly prohibited. If you received this
email in error, or are not an intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately. Thank you for your
assistance and cooperation.
C-73
From: ROSS HUFFMAN <rossmh1@cox.net>
Sent: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 1:18 PM
To: PublicWorks <PublicWorks@rpvca.gov>
Subject: Re: PVDE
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the
content is safe!!!.
Mr Awwad,
Before you send the money and time on PVDE improvement how about paving are
streets especially Newridge Drive.
Concerned home owner.
Ross Huffman
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C-74
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 07/01/2025
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA TITLE:
Consideration to receive a status report on the Enhanced Traffic Enforcement Program
along the switchbacks section of Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE)
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
(1)Receive and file a status report on the Lomita Sheriff Station’s 10-day
Supplemental Enhanced Traffic Enforcement Program along PVDE between Crest
Road East and Palos Verdes Drive South.
FISCAL IMPACT: No new fiscal impact resulted from this action, as the enhanced
enforcement effort was funded through two budgets: available
minutes from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (L0041SD)
Annual Service Level Authorization (Form 575) and the FY 2024-25
supplemental overtime budget of $70,000. Of the supplemental
overtime budget, the year-to-date expenditures and encumbrances
for overtime requests are approximately $32,900, and the added
overtime costs specifically for the PVDE enforcement program
between May 22 to June 30 are estimated at $7,000. In total,
supplemental overtime costs this year are anticipated to be just
under $40,000, which is within the supplemental overtime budget of
$70,000. It should be noted that the City has not expended the entire
FY 2024-25 supplemental overtime budget for varying reasons.
Lomita Sheriff’s Station is not contractually obligated to fulfill the
request for supplemental overtime and is largely dependent on the
number of available deputies at the time of the request. Recent local
incidents, including the wildfires and protests in Los Angeles, have
diverted many Sheriff’s Department deputies to those areas, limiting
the number of deputies that may have otherwise been available for
supplemental traffic enforcement and crime suppression activities in
the City. VR
Amount Budgeted: $8,241,600 (see below for a budget breakdown)
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): 101-400-6110-5101: $8,171,600
(General Fund - Public Safety Sheriff)
101-400-6120-5115: $70,000
(General Fund - Public Safety Special Programs –
Supplemental)
ORIGINATED BY: Jennifer Schmid, Public Safety Manager JS
D-1
REVIEWED BY: Catherine Jun, Deputy City Manager CJ
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Public Comments (page A-1)
BACKGROUND:
At the May 20, 2025 City Council meeting, the Public Works Department presented an
engineering traffic study’s recommended measures for Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE)
between Crest Road and Palos Verdes Drive South (PVDS), including the area locally
known as the “Switchbacks”. Recommendations included, among other things,
establishing a speed limit of 35 MPH throughout this stretch of PVDE. However, leading
up to and during the meeting, the City received a notable volume of public comments
expressing concerns about excessive vehicle speeds, noise, near-miss vehicle incidents,
and the overall behavior of motorists along the roadway. Community members
emphasized that the combination of recreational drivers and scenic views of the
Switchback invites undesired motorist behavior including speeding that warrants a
response by the City.
In light of these concerns, the City Council voted to defer consideration to adjust the speed
limit on PVDE between Crest Road and PVDS and directed staff to prioritize enhanced
traffic law enforcement to the extent allowable using existing law enforcement resources
with the Lomita Sheriff Station including budgeted overtime. The City Council also
directed staff to return in approximately 30 days with data on the efficacy of that
enforcement program to determine if additional measures should be implement ed to
further address speeding in partnership with the Lomita Sheriff’s Station. The intent of this
decision was to increase law enforcement presence to proactively deter the potential for
speeding and undesired motorist behavior before revisiting any permanent speed limit
changes.
It should also be noted that the City Council directed Staff to return in 60 days (by August
5, 2025) to revisit the recommendation to adjust the speed limit to 35 MPH throughout
this stretch of roadway.
DISCUSSION:
Supplemental Enhanced Enforcement Program
In direct response, the Lomita Sheriff’s Station initiated a robust 10-day enforcement
program, beginning on May 22, 2025, utilizing highly visible and proactive law
enforcement presence along the Switchbacks section of PVDE to deter speeding and
other undesirable driving behaviors. The initial 10-day period from May 22 through May
31 was marked by heavy enforcement activity, including the strategic deployment of
D-2
deputy motor and traffic units. Deputies actively utilized LIDAR and Radar speed
detection equipment to identify and cite speeding motorists. These operations were
supported by a trained enforcement team with at least 2 -3 deputies certified in advanced
speed enforcement tools, ensuring precise and effective monitoring. In addition, the City
supplemented the Lomita Sheriff’s Station’s efforts by adding message boards warning
drivers against speeding, as well as an Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) trailer
that displayed drivers’ vehicle speeds.
Results of Supplemental Enforcement Efforts:
Over the course of the 10-day enforcement period, deputies were out on patrol a total of
186 times (unit observations) and issued 110 traffic citations, of which 78 citations were
specifically speeding violations (see graph below). The remaining citations addressed
non-moving violations such as parking in the lookouts, expire d vehicle registration, and
driver’s license matters, and other issues. The operation showcased a visible and
impactful law enforcement presence, aimed at curbing undesirable driving behavior along
the Switchbacks. It should be noted that on Friday, May 30, no formal traffic enforcement
was conducted due to other law enforcement activity and resources needed in different
areas of the City.
Following the conclusion of the initial 10-day enhanced enforcement, the program
transitioned into a more sustained yet targeted strategy. From June 1 through the end of
the month, the Lomita Sheriff’s Station continued regular patrols utilizing dedicated motor
deputy and traffic enforcement units. Supplemental overtime resources, when available,
were also deployed to ensure high visibility during peak activity hours and to respond
swiftly to community concerns. Deputies played a vital support role during this period,
conducting patrols and issuing citations for violations such as illegal parking within
D-3
restricted scenic lookouts. Their presence not only reinforced the message of zero
tolerance for infractions but also provided a visible deterrent to unsafe behavior.
As of now, enforcement data for the period between June 1 and June 30 is being compiled
and reviewed by the Lomita Sheriff’s Station and City Staff and will be distributed to City
Council as late correspondence and will be presented during the July 1, 2025 City Council
meeting.
Temporary Closure of Scenic Lookouts Along Switchbacks
To further support these efforts and minimize opportunities for large vehicle gatherings
often associated with undesired driving behavior, the scenic lookouts along the
Switchbacks were temporarily closed. This tactical closure aided in preventing car clubs
and other groups from loitering in the area, allowing deputies to concentrate on traffic
enforcement without obstruction. While the closure was initially implemented as a public
safety measure, Lomita Sheriff’s Station acknowledged that the closure was beneficial in
supporting their enforcement efforts and giving deputies the bandwidth to focus their
efforts on traffic issues along the Switchbacks. However, residents and other members
of the public expressed concerns regarding the closure of the scenic lookout areas, which
served as a viewing node to the public (Attachment A).
After consulting with the Lomita Sheriff’s Station, the C ity reopened the scenic lookouts
on June 23, 2025. The scenic lookouts remain open and the previous parking restrictions
have been reinstituted – closed one hour after dusk until one hour before dawn similar to
all other recreation areas of the City pursuant to Section 12.16.030 of the Rancho Palos
Verdes Municipal Code.
In tandem with enforcement efforts, the Public Works Department is exploring long -term
physical improvements to the lookouts, including the possibility of striping parking stalls
to prevent large groups of vehicles from parking at any given time and providing
directional ingress and egress, further enhancing safety in those areas. These actions
reflect a coordinated, multi-agency effort to prioritize public safety, support law
enforcement, and preserve the scenic and residential integrity of Switchbacks.
Throughout this period, the City partnered with Lomita Sheriff’s Station on education and
outreach efforts to keep the public informed. Information regarding the closures and
ongoing enforcement program was shared through social media and City Manager’s
Weekly Report. These proactive communications were aimed at reinforcing the purpose
of the closures, promoting responsible driving behavior, and ensuring transparency with
residents.
CONCLUSION:
Staff recommends receiving and filing this report and to continue coordinating with the
Lomita Sheriff’s Station to utilize supplemental overtime, when available, to monitor
potential speeding on PVDE.
D-4
ALTERNATIVES:
The following alternative actions are available for the City Council’s consideration:
1. Do not approve one or more recommendations and direct staff accordingly, which
may include requests to return with additional information or updates.
2. Take other action.
D-5
Outlook
FW: Request to Restore Public Coastal Access Along Palos Verdes Drive East
From Brandy Forbes <bforbes@rpvca.gov>
Date Thu 6/19/2025 3:29 PM
To Jennifer Schmid <jschmid@rpvca.gov>
Jen,
Here is a third comment that Coastal Commission received, Again, Ara wanted me to forward to
you to include in the July 1 staff report.
Thanks,
Brandy Forbes, AICP
Community
Development Director
bforbes@rpvca.gov
Phone - (310) 544-5227
Address:
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
90275
Website: www.rpvca.gov
This e-mail message contains information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, which may be privileged,
confidential, and/or protected from disclosure. The information is intended only for use of the individual or entity named.
Unauthorized dissemination, distribution, or copying is strictly prohibited. If you received this email in error, or are not an
intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately. Thank you for your assistance and cooperation.
From: SouthCoast@Coastal <SouthCoast@coastal.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2025 1:54 PM
To: Brandy Forbes <bforbes@rpvca.gov>
Subject: FW: Request to Restore Public Coastal Access Along Palos Verdes Drive East
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any a achments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is
safe!!!.
Hello,
We are receiving various emails for this report; we will continue to forward them to you based on
guidance from our analyst and enforcement unit.
D-6
Staff Services Analyst
CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
South Coast District Office
301 E. Ocean Blvd. Suite 300
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 590-5071
From: Josephine Lemus <lemcg@sbcglobal.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2025 1:07 PM
To: SouthCoast@Coastal <SouthCoast@coastal.ca.gov>
Subject: Request to Restore Public Coastal Access Along Palos Verdes Drive East
To who it may concern:
I’m writing to express concern about recent actions by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes (“RPV”) that have impaired
public access to important coastal resources in our area.
Recently, the City installed “No Parking Any Time” signs at these turnouts, effectively blocking access to these
cherished public areas. This change limits enjoyment of the natural beauty that makes our city so special.
Rancho Palos Verdes is a beautiful place, and sharing that beauty with others does not diminish it. If anything, it
enhances our sense of community and humanity. We should be welcoming others to enjoy what we are fortunate to
have, not restricting access to it.
I respectfully ask that you take steps to reverse this decision, remove the restrictive signage, and restore public
access as it has existed for nearly a century.
Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.
Best regards,
Josephine Lemus
D-7
Outlook
FW: Palos verdes dr east look outs
From Brandy Forbes <bforbes@rpvca.gov>
Date Thu 6/19/2025 3:29 PM
To Jennifer Schmid <jschmid@rpvca.gov>
Jen,
Here is an additional comment that Coastal Commission received, Again, Ara wanted me to
forward to you to include in the July 1 staff report.
Thanks,
Brandy Forbes, AICP
Community
Development Director
bforbes@rpvca.gov
Phone - (310) 544-5227
Address:
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
90275
Website: www.rpvca.gov
This e-mail message contains information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, which may be privileged,
confidential, and/or protected from disclosure. The information is intended only for use of the individual or entity named.
Unauthorized dissemination, distribution, or copying is strictly prohibited. If you received this email in error, or are not an
intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately. Thank you for your assistance and cooperation.
From: SouthCoast@Coastal <SouthCoast@coastal.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2025 1:47 PM
To: Brandy Forbes <bforbes@rpvca.gov>
Subject: FW: Palos verdes dr east look outs
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any a achments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is
safe!!!.
Hello,
See the report below, our enforcement officer suggested we should forward this to you for review.
D-8
Staff Services Analyst
CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
South Coast District Office
301 E. Ocean Blvd. Suite 300
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 590-5071
From: jorher1 <jorgeh367@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2025 10:34 AM
To: SouthCoast@Coastal <SouthCoast@coastal.ca.gov>
Subject: Palos verdes dr east look outs
Dear sirs,
I'm writing regarding a recent action taken by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes ("RPV") that
impairs access to coastal resources in my area.
The Palos Verdes Drive East ("PVDE") roadway was constructed in the 1920's. Scenic
lookouts / turnouts were provided with ample space for cars to park well off the roadway. These
vantage points provided panoramic views of the coastline and access to the trail system of the
San Ramon Reserve (which PVDE runs through).
The City of RPV recently installed signs on the turnouts that read "No Parking Any Time". This
change prevents residents and visitors from enjoying the coastal views and accessing the
resources of the San Ramon Reserve.
I believe this capricious action by the City of RPV is a deliberate attempt to discourage visitors
from coming to the area and enjoying Coastal Resources.
I request that you compel the City of RPV to remove the (new) signage and restore access to
the state it's been in for the past 100 years.
Thank you for your consideration of my request.
Jorge Herrera
Palos Verdes CA
D-9
D-10
D-11
Outlook
FW: Complaint re Closure of Scenic Overlooks on Palos Verdes Drive East
From SouthCoast@Coastal <SouthCoast@coastal.ca.gov>
Date Thu 6/19/2025 8:55 AM
To Palm, Jeffrey@Coastal <jeffrey.palm@coastal.ca.gov>; Garcia, Diana@Coastal <diana.garcia@coastal.ca.gov>;
Sayre, Spenser@Coastal <spenser.sayre@coastal.ca.gov>
2 attachments (362 KB)
PVDE Google Maps.JPG; NPAT.jpg;
Hi all,
See the email below regarding an access complaint in Rancho Palos Verdes
From: Robert Grasier <robert.grasier@aol.com>
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2025 3:24 AM
To: SouthCoast@Coastal <SouthCoast@coastal.ca.gov>
Subject: Complaint re Closure of Scenic Overlooks on Palos Verdes Drive East
Dear sirs,
I'm writing regarding a recent action taken by the City of Rancho Palos Verdes ("RPV") that impairs access to
coastal resources in my area.
The Palos Verdes Drive East ("PVDE") roadway was constructed in the 1920's. Scenic lookouts / turnouts were
provided with ample space for cars to park well off the roadway. These vantage points provided panoramic views
of the coastline and access to the trail system of the San Ramon Reserve (which PVDE runs through).
The City of RPV recently installed signs on the turnouts that read "No Parking Any Time". This change prevents
residents and visitors from enjoying the coastal views and accessing the resources of the San Ramon Reserve.
I believe this capricious action by the City of RPV is a deliberate attempt to discourage visitors from coming to the
area and enjoying Coastal Resources.
I request that you compel the City of RPV to remove the (new) signage and restore access to the
state it's been in for the past 100 years.
Thank you for your consideration of my request.
Robert Grasier
Palos Verdes Estates, CA
310 864-2582
Attachment 1 - map of the area with the turnouts highlighted in yellow
Attachment 2 - example of the recent signage installed by the City of RPV
D-12
You don't often get email from diana.garcia@coastal.ca.gov. Learn why this is important
Outlook
FW: Complaint re Closure of Scenic Overlooks on Palos Verdes Drive East
From Brandy Forbes <bforbes@rpvca.gov>
Date Thu 6/19/2025 3:28 PM
To Jennifer Schmid <jschmid@rpvca.gov>
1 attachment (389 KB)
FW: Complaint re Closure of Scenic Overlooks on Palos Verdes Drive East;
Jen,
Please see email from Coastal Commission and attached complaint. This isn’t in the coastal
zone, as Coastal Commission let the person know. They have sent two additional comments
since. Ara wanted me to forward these to you for you to include in the July 1 Council staff
report. I will forward the other two comments, as well.
Thanks,
Brandy Forbes, AICP
Community
Development Director
bforbes@rpvca.gov
Phone - (310) 544-5227
Address:
30940 Hawthorne Blvd.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
90275
Website: www.rpvca.gov
This e-mail message contains information belonging to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, which may be privileged,
confidential, and/or protected from disclosure. The information is intended only for use of the individual or entity named.
Unauthorized dissemination, distribution, or copying is strictly prohibited. If you received this email in error, or are not an
intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately. Thank you for your assistance and cooperation.
From: Garcia, Diana@Coastal <diana.garcia@coastal.ca.gov>
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2025 11:05 AM
To: Brandy Forbes <bforbes@rpvca.gov>
Subject: Fw: Complaint re Closure of Scenic Overlooks on Palos Verdes Drive East
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any a achments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is
safe!!!.
D-13
Dear Brandy Forbes:
I hope this email finds you well. Our staff received the complaint attached this morning (from two
separate members of the public) regarding alleged access obstructions along the Palos Verdes Drive
East Roadway and San Ramon Reserve. As you may know, Commission staff let the members of the
public know that the subject area is not within the Coastal Zone Boundary and thus not within staff's
permitting / enforcement jurisdiction. Staff wanted to relay this report to your office to ensure you have
received it.
Thanks so much,
Diana
Diana Garcia | Enforcement Officer
CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
South Coast District Office
301 Ocean Blvd. Suite 300
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 590-5071
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Some people who received this message don't often get email from brettnewset@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important
Outlook
RE: Switchback turnout closure
From Ara Mihranian <AraM@rpvca.gov>
Date Tue 6/17/2025 5:51 AM
To Brett Walker <brettnewset@yahoo.com>; CC <CC@rpvca.gov>; kguerre@lasd.org <kguerre@lasd.org>
Cc Ramzi Awwad <rawwad@rpvca.gov>; Catherine Jun <cjun@rpvca.gov>; Jennifer Schmid
<jschmid@rpvca.gov>
Good morning Mr. Walker,
Thank you for taking the time to reach out to the City Council to express your thoughts on the closure of
the turn-outs along the switchbacks. Your email along with my response will be attached to the July 1
City Council staff report for consideration.
I would like to point out that the closure of the turn-outs were temporary to support the initial enforcement
plan and are planned to be re-opened soon with restrictions, such as hours. Additionally, we are
exploring the possibility of striping spaces for parking.
The City Council is tentatively scheduled to consider the City’s response to the enforcement plan at its
July 1 meeting.
The staff report with recommendations will be published the Tuesday before.
Let me know if you have any follow up questions or comments.
Ara
From: Bre Walker <bre newset@yahoo.com>
Sent: Saturday, June 14, 2025 12:20 PM
To: CC <CC@rpvca.gov>; kguerre@lasd.org
Subject: Switchback turnout closure
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any a achments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is
safe!!!.
D-15
Dear Council members and Captain Guerrero,
I wanted to express my appreciation for the action taken to shut down the switchback turnouts (
No parking/No stopping). We have noticed a big change in activity. At the council meeting I
concentrated on racing activity. However, it is much more than that. Please see the below
video(given to Lomita Sheriffs) as well as the picture of Gang graffiti. The turnouts had also
been used in the past for firework discharge which resulted in two fires in two years.
Again thank you for your quick response
Brett Walker
Shooting.MOV
dropbox.com
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On May 19, 2025, at 1:16 PM, Brett Walker <brettnewset@yahoo.com> wrote:
Dear Council members
Hopefully this gives insight into what’s happening on the switchbacks. Please add to
tomorrows “Traffic study of Palos Verdes Drive East"
My property has a unique view of the race track.
Looking forward to expressing my suggestions tomorrow
Sincerely
Brett Walker
<530l5srkaql5en9e2s4gd.jpeg>
Switchback racing.mp4
dropbox.com
D-17
Outlook
Prohibiting parking on PV Drive East scenic overlooks (at switchbacks)
From Douglas Shook <shook@usc.edu>
Date Fri 5/30/2025 7:28 AM
To CityManager <CityManager@rpvca.gov>
Some people who received this message don't often get email from shook@usc.edu. Learn why this is important
EXTERNAL EMAIL: Do not click links or open any a achments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is
safe!!!.
Dear Mr. Mihranian,
I can support the increased patrolling to curb speeding if it is deemed necessary, but to restrict parking at
the scenic lookout points is an over-reach, will not reduce speeding, and removes access to a beloved
distinguishing feature of our community.
As an RPV homeowner, I make regular use of the scenic lookout points and have met many families,
young couples, tourists, etc., who park, take photos and speak about what a wonderful community we
have here in RPV.
To me, restricting parking and removing access to these beautiful scenic lookout points is wrong-minded
and makes our lovely community appear unwelcoming to its residents and our guests.
I also do not understand how a restrictive act like this was approved and implemented without any public
announcement or public input.
Increase patrols in the area if you believe it is necessary, but please take down those signs and let us
enjoy our wonderful views again. If you wish to put this restriction up for public discussion, do so, but
please take down those signs immediately until the public has had input on what I believe is an
unwarranted, ineffective, and uninformed decision.
I also have contacted the city council regarding this issue. Thank you.
Best regards,
Douglas Shook
=======================================
Douglas Shook, Ph.D.
Professor Emeritus of Data Sciences
University of Southern California
e-mail: shook@usc.edu
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TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMITTEE MEETING DATE: 01/27/2025
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Regular Business
AGENDA TITLE:
Palos Verdes Drive East and Ganado Drive Traffic Study
RECOMMENDED TSC ACTION:
(1) Provide a recommendation on the implementation of traffic safety improvement
measures recommended in the General Technologies and Solutions (GTS) report
titled “Traffic Safety Study Palos Verdes Drive East and Ganado Drive”.
ORIGINATED BY: Noel Casil, PE, TE, PTOENVC
REVIEWED BY: Ramzi Awwad, Public Works Director
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. GTS Traffic Safety Study: Palos Verdes Drive East and Ganado Drive –
Updated November 2024
B. Community Notification Letter: Traffic Safety Study Palos Verdes Drive
East and Ganado Drive
BACKGROUND:
The City received a request from the Mediterrania Homeowners Association (HOA) to
conduct a traffic study in response to two traffic collisions involving bicyclists as well as
other vehicle crashes at the intersection of Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE) and Ganado
Drive, and along the associated segment of PVDE from Crest Road to Palos Verdes Drive
South (PVDS).
In response to the HOA’s traffic safety concerns, the City retained a traffic engineering
firm, General Technologies and Solutions (GTS), to prepare a traffic study and develop
recommendations for PVDE at and around Ganado Drive (Attachment A). The study
included a review of residents’ (HOA) complaints, existing conditions (including site
visits), traffic speed, sight distance, collision data, and other factors. The study area is
shown in Figure 1.
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Figure 1- Study Area Map
DISCUSSION:
Traffic Analysis
Existing Conditions
As described in the traffic study, the study area encompasses the segment of PVDE from
Crest Road to PVDS. The study area evaluated the intersection of PVDE and Ganado
Drive, the downhill segment of PVDE north of Ganado Drive and the segment of PVDE
between Ganado Drive and the switchbacks towards PVDS.
The 1.94-mile section of PVDE from Crest Road to PVDS has steep topography, with an
elevation change of about 525 feet from Crest Road to PVDS, and several sharp turns,
including 3 “hairpin” bends, each with a radius of about 120 feet. PVDE is classified as a
major road and arterial in the RPV General Plan.
The posted speed limits are 35 MPH from Crest Road to Ganado Drive, and 40 MPH from
Ganado Drive to PVDS. An Engineering and Traffic Survey (E&TS) adopted in 2021
recommended no changes to these existing speed limits, based on traffic data collected
for that E&TS.
The roadway cross-section changes throughout the study area and can be generally
described as varying from four lanes to two lanes of varying widths. South of Vista Del
Mar to 300 feet north of PVDS contains three “hairpin” turns locally known as “the
switchbacks” with sharp 120-foot turns.
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Traffic Speeds
Traffic speed data was collected just south of the intersection of PVDE and Vista del Mar
on the morning of a typical weekday (Tuesday, June 4, 2024) from 9:45 AM to 10:34 AM,
collecting a sampling of 101 vehicles. Data collection was repeated on a typical Saturday
(September 21, 2024) from 11:25 AM to 12:05 PM, collecting a sampling of 100 vehicles.
Weather conditions at both data collection times were clear, and the roadway was in good
condition and dry.
Traffic speed data was also collected north of the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Dr
on a typical weekday (Wednesday, January 9, 2025) from 12:00 AM to 12:35 PM,
collecting a sampling of 103 vehicles.
The data was used to calculate the prevailing speed, or 85th percentile speed, which is
the speed at or below which 85 percent of drivers travel. Table 1 summarizes the
prevailing speed data.
Table 1 – Traffic Speed Data on PVDE South of Vista del Mar
Data Collection Speed Limit Northbound
85th Percentile Speed
Southbound
85th Percentile Speed
PVDE South of Vista del Mar
Weekday
40 mph 39.7 mph 36.4 mph
PVDE South of Vista del Mar
Weekend
40 mph 40 mph 37.6 mph
PVDE North of Ganado Dr 35 mph 35.1 mph 37.4 mph
The 85th percentile speed is used in the traffic engineering industry as a reference to establish
speed limits based on the concept that most motorists can be relied upon to drive at a reasonable
speed. Studies have shown that setting arbitrarily low speed limits results in wholesale violations
and does not necessarily result in lower driving speeds. The California Vehicle Code (CVC),
Section 627 refers to the 85th percentile speed, as described above to be essentially
representing the speed considered safe and reasonable for setting speed limits on roadways,
with certain modifications based on the application of the judgement of a Traffic Engineer due to
specific site conditions.
Sight Distance
Intersection Sight Distance (ISD) represents the sight line distance needed for a driver
leaving the intersection to have enough time to see that the road is clear, then leave the
intersection while allowing an oncoming vehicle sufficient time to prevent a crash. Per the
Caltrans Highway Design Manual, 7th edition (Table 201.1), at a speed of 35 mph on a
downhill stretch, the required sight distance is 300 feet (250 feet plus 20% to account for
downhill). At a speed of 40 mph, the required sight distance increases to 360 feet (300
feet plus 20% to account for downhill). Since the measured 85th-percentile speed in the
southbound direction falls approximately midway between these speeds (37.6 mph), the
required sight distance is 330 feet, which exists with the current configuration. Sight
distance measurements show that when a vehicle is stopped behind the existing STOP
bar, parked vehicles on the west side of the spur road could possibly block the view of
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southbound traffic on PVDE. In order to avoid even this possibility, the traffic study
recommends moving the STOP bar forward to the flow line, which results in over 330 feet
of sight distance without having to consider any additional parking restrictions on the spur
road. The improved sight distance with the STOP bar moved forward to the flow line are
shown in Figure 2.
The sight distance looking south (viewing northbound traffic) on PVDE was also verified
and is unobstructed for the required distance of 300 feet, which is the required sight
distance considering that there is no downhill slope necessitating an adjustment.
The sight distance analysis noted that the vegetation on the landscaped divider between
PVDE and spur road could potentially block the view if overgrown. The study
recommended that vegetation growing on the ground should be maintained and kept
trimmed to a maximum height of 30 inches (measured from the ground). This may help
to address issues of the visibility of cyclists to drivers.
Maintaining a maximum vegetation height of 30 inches means that maintenance needs
to be conducted on a regular basis to trim vegetation well under that height. That trimming
needs to be conducted very carefully to maintain a pleasant appearance, which can be
difficult to do consistently. Additionally, any missed maintenance cycle could create a
liability for the City. This creates an administrative and maintenance burden for the Public
Works Department. Therefore, Staff recommend replacing the existing landscaping with
very slow growing plantings that start at a height of approximately 24 inches and take six
months to a year to grow to a height of 30 inches. Staff recommend preparing a landscape
plan for concurrence with the HOA prior to the removal of the existing vegetation and
replanting with new vegetation. In the meantime, the Public Works Department will
continue to maintain the existing landscaping to a height of approximately 24 inches to
avoid any potential liability.
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Figure 2- Sight Distance Analysis (with STOP bar relocated forward)
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Collision History
The collision history for PVDE from Crest Rd to PVDS, and for the intersection of PVDE
and Ganado Dr, was evaluated using the most recent 5-year period for which data is
available from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LACSD). The time period
analyzed was April 1, 2019, to March 31, 2024 because it is the most recently available
data considering that collision reports are sometimes not finalized for several months after
a collision due to the quality control and approval process. Figure 3 summarizes the
collision data.
Figure 3- Collisions in the Study Area
Because roadways with higher traffic volumes are expected to have more collisions, a
collision rate was calculated to normalize for the volume of traffic. The collision rate for
the roadway is expressed as collisions per million vehicle miles traveled and as collisions
per million vehicles entering an intersection.
Additionally, because roadways with particular characteristics may have more or fewer
collisions, the collision rate was compared to roadways with similar characteristics as the
subject roadway and intersection. The collision rate was compared to collision rates on
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segments of similar characteristics in Caltrans District 7 (Los Angeles and Ventura
Counties), which is the best available source of comparative data.
In addition to the collision data from the LACSD, the HOA stated that there have been
other collisions for which LACSD did not take a report. These collisions are not included
in the collision rate analysis because it is known to the Public Works Department that not
all collisions result in a collision report, particularly if the collision only involves property
damage. Therefore, including non-reported collisions in the collision rate would no longer
allow for an apples-to-apples comparison.
The collision rate for the study segment of PVDE is 2.92 collisions per million vehicle
miles traveled, which is higher than the collision rate of 1.51 collisions per million vehicle
miles traveled for similar roadways in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Furthermore,
the fatal and injury collision rate for the study segment of PVDE is 1.79 collisions per
million vehicle miles traveled, which is higher than the fatal and injury collision rate of 0.74
collisions per million vehicle miles traveled for similar roadways in Los Angeles and
Ventura Counties.
The collision rate for the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Dr is 0.55, which is higher
than the California intersection average collision rate of 0.22 for suburban T-intersections
(stop sign control excluding four-way) in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. In total, there
were three collisions at the subject intersection between April 1, 2019 and March 31,
2024. Two of the collisions were between a vehicle and bicycle while one was between a
vehicle and vehicle. All three collisions resulted in injuries. The fatal and injury collision
rate for the intersection of PVDE and Ganado Dr is also 0.55, which is higher than the
fatal and injury collision rate of 0.09 for suburban T-intersections (stop sign control
excluding four-way) in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.
However, it should be noted that intersection crash rate is a conservative rate because
crash analyses for establishing a stop sign, speed limit, traffic signal, or left turn arrow at
a signal typically encompass a three-year period whereby a specific correctable collision
pattern occurs in a 12-month period (per the California MUTCD traffic engineering
manual). In this case, if the analysis was conducted over a three-year period, the resultant
collision rate would be much lower considering that the bicycle collisions occurred
approximately four years apart.
Recommendations
GTS developed recommendations to improve traffic safety based on guidance from state
and national traffic engineering publications such as the California Highway Design
Manual (HDM), Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Device (CAMUTCD), Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) Traffic Safety Toolbox, and American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials (AASTHO) Highway & Street Design “Green Book”.
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In close coordination with the HOA, staff endeavored to develop feasible and practical
solutions to address the areas of concern within the study area.
Based on the traffic safety study, Staff recommend implementation of the measures
below. Although the traffic study recommends that the measures be implemented in
phases, with long-term measures following the short-term measures (if needed), Staff
recommends implementing all measures in the short term.
1. Sight Distance and Visibility - trim vegetation on the landscape divider between
PVDE and the small PVDE service road to a maximum height of 30” from the
ground elevation of the landscaped divider. This will improve sight distance and
visibility at the intersection, in particular for eastbound (Ganado Dr) traffic.
Although GTS recommends trimming the existing vegetation, Staff recommend
replacing the existing landscaping with very slow growing plantings that start at a
height of approximately 24 inches and take six months to a year to grow to a height
of 30 inches based on a landscape plan agreed-upon with the HOA. This will
reduce the administrative and maintenance burden for the Public Works
Department.
2. A) Stop Bar Relocation – Move the stop bar (as shown in Figure 4) on Ganado Dr
to the edge of the PVDE right-turn lane. This will increase the sight distance at the
intersection for eastbound (Ganado Dr) traffic; and although the sight distance
currently meets standards, this would result in over 330 feet of sight distance
without having to consider any additional parking restrictions on the spur road.
Figure 4- Ganado Dr at PVDE Stop Relocation
B) Traffic Signage Upgrades – In consideration of GTS’ concerns about over
signage; update some existing signs (as shown in Figure 5) to comply with current
standards and remove some signs that are not necessary to reduce sign clutter
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where motorists disregard signs because there are too many of them to process.
This recommendation also includes installing speed feedback signs which display
a motorist’s current speed in comparison to the speed limit. Although GTS
recommends the locations shown in Figure 5, Staff recommends working with the
HOA to identify the most suitable locations based on user experience.
Figure 5- Study Area Traffic Sign Upgrades
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3. Widen Edge Lines – Re-paint the roadway edge lines to increase the width from
the existing 4-inches to 6-inches along PVDE because the Federal Highway
Administration has found that wider edge lines are very effective in reducing fatal
and injury crashes.
4. Restripe PVDE to Add Bike Lanes – Install new 5-foot-wide bicycle-only lanes (as
shown in Figure 6) on the four-lane section of PVDE from Vista Del Mar to Crest
Road. This would require reducing the vehicle lane widths to 10.5 feet. In the area
of PVDE directly north of the intersection with Ganado Dr, where there is a right-
turn lane for vehicle turning onto Ganado Dr, the bicycle lane would be positioned
between the right-turn lane and the vehicular through lane.
Figure 6- Proposed Lane Configuration for PVDE near Ganado Dr
5. Speed Limit Reduction – Reduce the speed limit from the existing 40 miles per
hour (mph) down to 35 mph for the segment of PVDE between PVDS and Ganado
Dr and maintain the speed limit of 35 mph for the segment of PVDE between
Ganado Dr and Crest Rd; based on the 85th percentile speed as well as collision
history and roadway geometry.
GTS states that given the high collision rate, presence of a nearby university
campus which has the potential to generate pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and the
terrain, and switchbacks, the City can further reduce the speed limit by 5 mph to
30 mph.
The HOA has stated that they strongly believe a speed limit of 30 mph is needed
from Crest Rd to PVDS due to conditions not readily apparent to drivers.
Staff recommends a speed limit of 35 mph from Crest Rd to PVDS. Staff
recommends implementing the traffic calming measures stated in this report in
conjunction with a reduction of 5 mph from Ganado Dr to PVDS, followed by an
after-action study in one year. This will allow road users to adjust to the new
conditions and for some data to become available subsequent to implementation
of the measures. Depending on the results of the after-action study, a further
reduction in the speed limit could be considered.
Staff believes that a reduction of 10 mph at one time (for the segment between
Ganado Dr and PVDS) may result in poor compliance and that an incremental
approach of a 5 mph reduction combined with traffic calming measures will yield
higher compliance. Staff is concerned that poor speed limit compliance will create
a variation in speeds where some drivers comply with the speed limit while others
do not, which could result in increased collisions, particularly rear-end collisions.
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6. Warning Signs – Install “in-lane curve warning pavement markings” (sample shown
in Figure 7) which are speed advisory markings painted on the road pavement
ahead of a curve, and install “dynamic curve warning signs” which are lit signs that
flash when a driver approaches a curve too fast (sample shown in Figure 8).
Figure 7 – Sample In-Lane Curve Warning Pavement Markings
Figure 8 – Dynamic Curve Warning Signs
Sample Dynamic Curve Warning
Sample In Lane Pavement Markings
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
HOA Traffic Signal Request
The HOA requested the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of PVDE and
Ganado Dr.
Traffic signals can be a valuable device for controlling vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
They can provide for the orderly movement of traffic, increase capacity, reduce the
frequency and severity of certain types of crashes, and provide minor-street traffic with
breaks in major-street traffic. However, traffic signals at locations where they are not
justified can lead ot excessive delay, disobedience of signal indications, increased cut-
through traffic, and increased collisions of certain types (especially rear-end). Therefore,
prior to the installation of a traffic signal, an analysis is conducted based on the California
traffic engineering standards, which include minimum conditions, or warrants, under
which installing traffic control signals might be justified.
Prior to performing a full traffic signal analysis, Staff asked GTS to perform a cursory
review of the intersection to determine the likelihood that the intersection would meet the
conditions to justify a traffic signal. GTS informed Staff that based on their experience
with traffic signal analyses and their knowledge of the subject intersection, it is unlikely
that a traffic signal would be justified. Therefore, Staff recommends implementing the
measures in this staff report and considering a traffic signal analysis at a future date, if
these measures do not adequately address the concerns of the HOA.
Public Notification
To assure that residents are aware of the Traffic Safety Committee’s (TSC) discussion
on the traffic safety measures for Palos Verdes Drive East at and around Ganado Drive,
including the segment of Palos Verdes Drive East which spans from Crest Road to Palos
Verdes Drive South; Staff sent a letter (Attachment B) notifying residents that this item
will be discussed at this TSC meeting on January 27, 2025.
CONCLUSION:
Staff recommends that the Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) recommend to the City
Council implementation of traffic safety recommendations 1 through 6 described above
in this Staff Report.
Next Steps
If recommended by the TSC, the recommendations can be implemented within several
months of City Council approval, to allow time for engineering design and scheduling of
contractors.
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ALTERNATIVES:
In addition to the Staff recommendation, the following alternative actions are available for
the Traffic Safety Committee’s consideration:
1. Recommend implementation of only certain traffic safety measures instead
of all traffic safety measures.
2. Do not recommend implementation of any traffic safety measures and
instead recommend continued monitoring of the study area.
3. Recommend a speed limit reduction down to 30 mph for PVDE from Crest
Rd to PVDS.
4. Recommend that the speed limit for PVDE from Crest Rd to PVDS remain
unchanged.
5. Take other action as deemed appropriate.
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City of Rancho Palos Verdes
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
July 21, 2025
Dear Resident,
The City of Rancho Palos Verdes invites you to attend a Rancho Palos Verdes City
Council Meeting where Palos Verdes Drive East (PVDE) from Crest Road to Palos Verdes Drive
South (PVDS) will be on the agenda. The City Council will:
•Consider establishing the speed limit for PVDE from Crest Road to Palos
Verdes Drive South PVDS.
•Receive an update on the implementation of approved traffic measures for the
area.
•Receive a report on the future traffic enforcement plan for PVDE.
You are invited to provide public input on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
In-person at:
Fred Hesse Community Park, McTaggart Hall
29301 Hawthorne Blvd
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Or
Virtually via Zoom
If you wish to attend virtually, please complete the Public Participation Form at
https://rpvca.gov/1656/PUBLIC-MEETING-PARTICIPATION-PORTAL.
The City Council agenda will be available on the City website by July 29 and can be
found at https://www.rpvca.gov/772/City-Meeting-Video-and-Agendas.
If you have questions, please contact Public Works at 310-544-5252 or
publicworks@rpvca.gov.
We encourage you to attend the meeting to voice your opinion.
Sincerely,
30940 HAWTHORNE BLVD. / RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA 90275-5391 / (310) 544-5200 / WWW.RPVCA.GOV
Ramzi Awwad
Director of Public Works
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