C4AN - West Ave. Pedestrian Safety

Committee Referrals - C4 AN

C4 AN REFERRAL TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY AND NEIGHBORHOOD QUALITY OF LIFE COMMITTEE – DISCUSS PEDESTRIAN SAFETY AND COMMUNITY COMMUNICATION CONCERNS RELATED TO THE WEST AVENUE PHASE II PROJECT (SEGMENT 2). Applicable Area:

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

RECOMMENDATION

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

ANALYSIS

The West Avenue Phase II construction project, specifically at the intersection of Lincoln Road and West Avenue, has raised significant concerns regarding pedestrian safety, access, and stakeholder communication.

During the temporary reopening of West Avenue for Art Week, the removal of traffic signals and ongoing construction conditions created a hazardous environment. Pedestrians were unable to legally cross at the Lincoln Road intersection, resulting in individuals climbing barricades and crossing active traffic lanes, thereby increasing the risk of injury.

Additionally, there has been a breakdown in communication between the City and impacted stakeholders, including residents and local businesses. At a September neighborhood meeting, the City committed to implementing several outreach and transparency measures: • Biweekly project look-ahead communications • An updated project website • Quarterly video updates • Regular neighborhood meetings • Implementation of text alerts • Improved project signage including QR codes • Open office hours with project staff These measures have either not been consistently implemented or have not been clearly communicated to affected stakeholders.

The PSNQLC should review and provide recommendations on the following: 1. Pedestrian safety risks created by temporary traffic pattern changes during construction. 2. The adequacy and consistency of stakeholder communication and outreach. 3. Options for short-term mitigation measures, including temporary traffic control personnel and enhanced wayfinding signage. 4. Long-term policy guidance to prevent similar public safety and communication gaps in future capital improvement projects.

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

N/A

Does this Ordinance require a Business Impact Estimate? (FOR ORDINANCES ONLY)

If applicable, the Business Impact Estimate (BIE) was published on: See BIE at: https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/city-clerk/meeting-notices/

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CONCLUSION

Applicable Area

South Beach

Was this Agenda Item initially requested by a lobbyist which, as defined in Code Sec. 2-481, includes a principal engaged in lobbying? No

If so, specify the name of lobbyist(s) and principal(s):

Department

Office of Commissioner Laura Dominguez

Sponsor(s)

Commissioner Laura Dominguez

Co-sponsor(s)

Condensed Title

Ref: PSNQLC - Pedestrian Safety/Communications Concerns Re: W Ave Ph II Project. (LD)