City Starts Work Constructing Separate Beach Path for Pedestrians

From the city of Long Beach:

The city of Long Beach will begin work this week on constructing a new, separate beach pedestrian path. The existing bike path, which has been shared by pedestrians, strollers, bicyclists, and inline skaters, will become dedicated entirely to bicyclists and inline skaters.

“This strategic investment in our coastline will increase beach access and coastal recreation, as well as safety for pedestrians and cyclists, by creating a dedicated pedestrian path,” Mayor Robert Garcia said.

The new pedestrian path will stretch 3.1 miles along the coast from the Downtown Shoreline Marina to 54th Place. It will be 11 feet wide, and constructed from a resin-based surface that is environmentally friendly, less rigid than concrete, more desirable for walking and running, and yet durable enough to withstand the marine environment.

“The new pedestrian path will encourage greater use of our beach, promote more active and healthy lifestyles, and improve mobility and travel options,” Vice Mayor Suja Lowenthal said.

“Our wonderful coastline is such a popular place for people to walk, jog, and ride a bike,” Councilmember Suzie Price said. “The additional path will decrease congestion and create a safer environment for everyone.”

New pedestrian and bike ramps will be constructed at the Belmont Pier. As part of the project, new turf will be installed between the Junipero parking lot and Bixby Park. This will provide an enhanced experience for gatherings and other activities.

The new path’s configuration requires reconstruction of some portions of the existing path. Impacted segments will be temporarily closed. The first major area of construction is between Granada and 54th Place; this section will be closed beginning this week. Temporary closure signage will direct the public. Work at the Belmont Pier ramps and storm drain crossing will also begin this week, but it will not immediately impact the existing bike path.

The $6.4 million project is being financed with Tidelands Operations Funds, and is expected to be completed byMay 31, 2015.

For more information, visit http://bit.ly/1u4n2HR or contact Bill Zein, consultant project manager, atbzein@andpen.com or 310.359.1203.

PHOTO Patch file photo.

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