By Sara Beth Williams–
City officials recently announced road improvements planned within the Neighborhood Areas 7, 8, and 9, known as CHASEN, through the city’s Multi-Modal Transportation Safety Program, including the removal of a non-signalized crosswalk.
The city plans to remove the existing non-signalized crosswalk on Oak Avenue at Canelo Hills Drive, due to several factors, the city says, including the lack of a sidewalk or curb ramp on one side of the crossing, a decline in pedestrian use, and the proximity of other nearby crosswalks.
The nearest crosswalk from Oak Avenue and Canelo Hills Drive is at Sunrise Boulevard and Oak Avenue, which is estimated as a three-minute walk.
The second nearest crosswalk from Canelo Hills Drive and Oak Avenue is at Fair Oaks Boulevard and Oak Avenue, which is estimated to be an eight-minute walk.
In accordance with state law, public notices regarding the crosswalk removal have been posted in English, Spanish, and Russian at both ends of the crossing since March 13, allowing time for public comment. The comment period will close and notices will be removed once resurfacing work on Oak Avenue begins, as part of the city’s pavement preservation projects.
Additionally, the intersection of Canelo Hills Drive and Dana Butte Way, has been identified as a priority location for roadway upgrades aimed at improving safety.
Planned improvements at the intersection include striping and signage updates. Crews will refresh standard crosswalk markings across Canelo Hills Drive at the southbound approach, along with limit lines on other approaches. The double yellow centerline will also be repainted, and “STOP” pavement markings will be refreshed and repositioned for better visibility.
Approximately 20 feet of red curb will also be added on all approaches to comply with California’s daylighting law, known as AB 413, which is intended to improve sightlines at intersections by restricting parking near corners. Existing striping within about 50 feet of the intersection will also be refreshed.
New signage upgrades are planned, including “All-Way” plaques installed beneath existing stop signs, and red retro-reflective tape will be added to sign posts to improve visibility, particularly at night.
Construction is expected to begin within the next few weeks, weather permitting. During that time, temporary “No Parking” signs may be posted to allow crews to safely complete the work. While short-term lane shifts may occur during striping operations, city officials say access for residents will be maintained at all times.
Residents with questions or concerns about the project can contact the city’s General Services Department at [email protected] or by calling 916-727-4770.
