L.A. City Councilman, Bill Rosendahl brought representatives from the Los Angeles Department of Transportation to Wednesday’s meeting to discuss proposed engineering solutions. Assistant General manager, John Fisher, presented a variety of short and long term engineering solutions to the problems on Palisades Drive.

Fischer explained that the current roadway could be quickly (2-3 months) converted into a three lane “Traffic Calming Alternative” with a 5′ grooved strip in the middle to separate oncoming traffic (see 2nd illustration below). With more planning, engineering and budget approval (which would be significant), two other proposals were made with concrete and landscaped center divider areas, street lighting and bike lanes. The landscaped alternative would narrow the roadway to two lanes, with bike lanes in either direction. Fisher reported that the traffic volumes on Palisades Drive did not necessitate more than a two lane roadway, and fire captain Randy Beaty confirmed that the Fire Department and emergency vehicles would still be able to manage with a narrower and safer roadway.

The panel fielded questions regarding different solutions from the audience. Fisher was asked what it would take to change the road’s current classification as a Class II highway, and he said that “it was possible when the community plan came up for renewal”.

Next steps, the Safety Committee will meet with community leaders to discuss the proposals.