City Begins Construction of Safer Crossings for John Muir and SMASH Students

Construction has begin on improved crossings on Hollister Street at 4th, 5th, and 6th streets to make it safer and easier for students who walk to school at John Muir Elementary School and Santa Monica Alternative School House (SMASH). The improvements are part of a package of pedestrian safety projects for Santa Monica Schools the city approved and contracted for earlier this year. The program will also see improvements made at the intersection of Ocean Park Blvd. and 5th Street. Construction is scheduled to be completed by November 29, the day after Thanksgiving.

The city summarized the improvements that will be happening around the schools:

• Curb Extensions: Planned at high-traffic intersections near the schools to shorten pedestrian crossing distances and improve visibility between pedestrians and motorists. 
• ADA Curb Ramps: Installation of ADA-compliant curb ramps will facilitate easier sidewalk access, promoting inclusivity and mobility for all pedestrians, especially those with disabilities. 
• Crosswalk Renewals: Existing crosswalks will be refreshed to ensure they are clearly visible and provide safe passage for pedestrians. 

Similar improvements are planned for four other schools in Santa Monica including the Edison Language Academy, McKinley Elementary, Grant Elementary, and Franklin Elementary.

About The Author

Damien Newton

Damien is the executive director of the Southern California Streets Initiative which publishes Santa Monica Next, Streetsblog Los Angeles, Streetsblog San Francisco, Streetsblog California and Longbeachize.

See author's posts