‘Smart Street’ Project to Enter Final Phase

Construction will begin late this month on the final stretch of Orange County’s first “Smart Street” project, aimed at improving traffic flow on Beach Boulevard.

Anaheim and Buena Park officials on Tuesday announced the $20-million final phase of the project, which they said will benefit both cities.

Anaheim Mayor Tom Daly said the heavily traveled boulevard will be more attractive, safer and smoother for motorists.

The last segment, between the Riverside Freeway and Lincoln Avenue, also will be a big plus for tourist stops near Knott’s Berry Farm, Buena Park Mayor Gerald N. Sigler said.

The $45-million Beach Boulevard Smart Street project is funded with Measure M money, the half-cent sales tax approved by county voters in 1990.

More than 14 miles of Beach Boulevard are already completed, from Huntington Beach to La Habra.

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A New Beach

The Beach Boulevard Smart Street project is designed to improve intersections and coordinate signals to make traffic flow easier. Impact on businesses will be minimized by keeping driveways open during construction and delaying sidewalk work until after summer.

Improvements to Include:

* One new lane in each direction

* Dual left-turn lanes at Lincoln and La Palma avenue intersections

* Upgraded storm drains

* Enhanced street signs and striping

* Improved sidewalks and lighting

* Sound walls near Stanton Avenue

* Landscaping and irrigation systems

Source: Orange County Transportation Authority