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Vision Zero Project puts focus on Cliff Drive safety

City seeks Cliff Drive improvement input from the community before applying for $24 million grant

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.-Cliff Drive in Santa Barbara isn't known as one of Santa Barbara's safety streets.

That is why the city has been making an effort to improve it.

A virtual public meeting called the Cliff Drive Vision Zero Project Community Workshop took place on Wednesday night.

Vision Zero is nationwide strategy to eliminate traffic fatalities.

And there have been too many on Cliff Drive.

A motorcyclists was in a fatal crash on an afternoon near Santa Barbara City College in 2018 and three young adults lost their lives in a crash on a Tuesday night near La Marina Drive in 2016.

Proposals for safety improvements include new crosswalks, traffic signals and wider sidewalks.

Interim Public Works Downtown Manager Jessica Grant said Cliff Drive used to be known as State Route 225.

That is when it was under Cal Trans control.

Since 2014 it has been under the city of Santa Barbara's control and there have been a number of public meetings to gather input.

Santa Barbara City College students including Danielle Addicott said crossing Cliff Drive can be challenging during the day and night.

"I don't think it is safe."

Supervising Transportation Engineer Derrick Bailey said project proposals included completing the coastal bike route, improving active transportation options to Santa Barbara City College and improving access to neighborhoods by adding new crosswalks.

"There was really strong support for more crosswalks and traffic signals," said Bailey.,"There is really strong support for a two way bike path and the aesthetics should compliment the Mesa neighborhood."

Grant said a a multi use path would separate pedestrians and cyclists from the roadway.

The city lost out on a grant last year, but an effort is underway to apply for another one that could lead to $24

If approved the work could start in the fall and be completed within the next 5 years.

Webinars and open house events contribute to the grant application.

An open house will be held at La Mesa Park from 10-to-noon this Saturday.

To view information visit cliffdriveplan@SantaBarbaraCA.gov

Article Topic Follows: Traffic

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Tracy Lehr

Tracy Lehr is a reporter and the weekend anchor for News Channel 3-12. To learn more about Tracy, click here

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