SIGNAL HILL : Council OKs Barrier for Dawson Street
Motorists who are used to turning from westbound Pacific Coast Highway onto northbound Dawson Avenue will soon find five trees blocking their paths.
The city decided to place a row of trees in planters across the roadway after Dawson Street residents complained they and their children were endangered by drivers making the turn too fast. A petition requesting the cul-de-sac was signed by members of 26 households.
But not all local residents favor the plan.
Some said they are concerned that police and firefighters may not be able to respond to emergencies as quickly when the street is closed. Other opponents cited the inconvenience of having to drive around the block to get to their homes.
The City Council also was divided on the issue. It voted 3-2 to temporarily close Dawson at Pacific Coast Highway. Mayor Michael Noll, Sara Hanlon and Tina Hansen voted in favor of the plan. Councilmen Gerard Goedhart and Richard Ceccia dissented.
City staff will study the effectiveness of the barrier, which is scheduled to be in place by the end of January. If it cuts down on problems and gains acceptance from residents, the intersection could be permanently closed.
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