We, the undersigned residents and business owners of Laguna Beach, strongly urge the City Council to REJECT the current plans to close lower Forest Avenue to construct a permanent pedestrian mall. Council is scheduled to discuss their plan at a critical June 11 meeting at 4:00 pm. This plan threatens the heart of our historic downtown and raises serious concerns:
• Loss of Historic Gateway: This project permanently changes the historic character of the traditional entry to our downtown.
• Unknown Costs: Council plans to approve this project with NO BUDGET and NO VIABLE COST ESTIMATE!
• Negative Business Impacts: Loss of vehicle access and 48 parking spaces has already harmed local retailers. Demolition and construction for at least 8 months will bankrupt some businesses.
• Negative Community Impacts: The project allows unprecedented public drinking throughout lower Forest Avenue.
• Flood Risks: Forest Avenue is in a floodway. The project design relies on raising the street level, but with NO HYDROLOGY STUDY, we cannot know if it would be safe or even feasible.
We ask Council to REJECT the current plans for permanent closure and explore other alternatives. Let's preserve the vital character and accessibility of Forest Avenue.