City Presentation on Bicycle Lanes
Redondo Beach Advances Bike Lane Planning on Palos Verdes Boulevard
The City of Redondo Beach is evaluating the implementation of dedicated bicycle lanes on Palos Verdes Boulevard (PVB), with a focus on safety, connectivity, and potential trade-offs involving parking and traffic flow.
At a recent Public Works and Sustainability Commission meeting, staff presented findings on bicycle facility classifications, a parking utilization study, and recommendations for the corridor.
Approved and Proposed Bike Lane Segments
- The City has approved Class II (striped) bike lanes on PVB between Irena Avenue and the Torrance city boundary.
- The segment between Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Irena is under further evaluation due to limited street width, which may require removal of on-street parking or a reduction in traffic lanes.
Safety and Infrastructure Considerations
- Staff emphasized the need for increased separation and comfort for cyclists on higher-speed roadways like PVB.
- Class III bike routes (shared with vehicles) are suitable only for lower-speed residential streets and are not permitted on roads exceeding 35 mph.
- Safety was noted as a guiding principle in the selection of appropriate bike infrastructure types.
Parking Utilization Study
A parking occupancy study conducted on December 17, 2024, found that on-street parking demand along PVB is low:
- Most blocks had fewer than five vehicles parked per side during evening hours.
- Occupancy rates were generally below 50%.
- Fewer than ten vehicles total were observed parked at any time along the PCH-to-Irena segment.
Staff Recommendation and Cost Estimate
- Staff recommended funding the design and construction of Class IV protected bike lanes along the corridor.
- The estimated cost is $200,000, including design and striping.
- Benefits cited include improved cyclist safety, reduced sidewalk riding, and better access to Riviera Village and the broader regional bikeway network.
- Implementation would require coordination with Athens Services to adjust street sweeping operations.
These recommendations will require further action by the City Council before funding or construction can proceed.
