Watsonville Recommended For $633,000 Grant

WATSONVILLE, CA - From the City of Watsonville: The City of Watsonville has been recommended to receive a $633,000 grant for safety improvements to a segment of Lincoln Street that passes through the Watsonville High School campus and is between East Beach Street and Riverside Drive. Construction would take place during the summer of 2020. The funding is through the State of California’s Active Transportation Program. The California Transportation Commission will vote to formally approve funding when it meets on October 18 & 19 of this year.

The project is being coordinated with Watsonville High School and combines physical improvements with education and training to improve public safety and enhance pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Installation of fencing, benches and planters will encourage pedestrians to use street crossings. Curb extensions, signage and highly visible crosswalks will help motorists be aware of pedestrians. New pavement markings will promote bicycle safety. An education component calls for on-bike and on-street education programs for students and helps them develop healthier lifestyles.

Mayor Pro-tempore Hurst stated “Those who have been around a while know the long need, danger to cyclists and pedestrians, and the high volume of traffic generated by a large high school surrounded by urban uses. This project will be a wonderful improvement to this area.”

"The Public Works and Utilities Department is always looking for funding sources to improve traffic and pedestrian safety. This is a location we would be very excited to create solutions for if we receive this grant", said Maria Esther Rodriquez, Assistant Director of Public Works and Utilities.

Image via City of Watsonville