An example of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon on Hollister Avenue at the Goleta Valley Community Center.

An example of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon on Hollister Avenue at the Goleta Valley Community Center. (Courtesy photo)

The city of Goleta will soon have improved pedestrian safety at two intersections.

The project will install pedestrian-activated Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB’s) across Hollister Avenue at Chapel Street to provide an additional visual cue to alert motorists when a pedestrian wishes to cross the street.

The second location includes the installation of a pedestrian crossing signal over the Calle Real travel lanes at the intersection of Kingston Avenue, replacing the existing old-style yellow flashing beacons.

The project will also incorporate new striping, signage, lighting, and the construction of new standard curb ramps.

Construction, which begins Monday, Jan. 25, is expected to be completed by the end of April.

“The Department of Public Works is excited to be installing new pedestrian signalized crosswalks on Hollister Avenue near Cottage Hospital and Calle Real near the hotels, businesses, and residential areas,” said Charlie Ebeling, Goleta Public Works director. “The city was awarded a Highway Safety Improvement Program grant to improve the pedestrian safety at these two locations.

“We appreciate your patience during the construction period.”

City staff is working with the contractor to minimize impacts to the public. However, the project will require the closure of travel lanes to complete the work.

The work, which will take place 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, is scheduled to start at the Hollister Avenue and Chapel Street location and move to the Calle Real and Kingston Avenue location in early February. Traffic control will be in place with advance warning flashing boards.

Delays are expected, so the public is asked plan accordingly over the next couple of months.
 
For more information, contact City Construction manager Bill Callaghan, MNS Engineers, at bcallaghan@mnsengineers.com or 805-648-4840 ext. 3506.