Construction begins for new Isla Vista traffic light at busy intersection

Construction of a four-way traffic signal in Isla Vista is underway. Santa Barbara County Public Works and UC Santa Barbara are working together to fund the $300,000 project cost.

The street lights will control the Pardall Road and Embarcadero Del Norte intersection. Officials hope to improve safety of the bicyclists and drivers in the Isla Vista community.

The light will be ready for use by the middle of September.

California Highway Patrol Captain Cindy Pontes said, “During the first two weeks that school is back in session, CHP would like to allow people an opportunity to become familiar with the new traffic lights. Officers will be encouraged to provide a warning in lieu of a citation during the first two weeks of school. However, officers still have the ability to issue citations for any violation they deem appropriate during that timeframe.”

Public safety officers would like to remind the public that cyclists on public roads have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, and are subject to the same rules and regulations per the California Vehicle Code.

Board President Ethan Bertrand said, “The people who are excited about this are just really grateful that this will make Isla Vista safer.”

County Public Works says the light poles will be painted green by a local artist. More information can be found on the project’s Facebook page called Pardall Signal.

Anyone with questions about the signal operations can call the County’s Traffic Engineer at (805)568-3308.

For a comprehensive list of questions and answers about this project and information on other Santa Barbara County Public Works Transportation Projects, visit www.pwsb.net.