Hermosa Beach was named one of the top cities in the nation for its safe streets by the National Complete Streets Coalition, an organization that encourages the availability of streets to all users. Out of 130 cities, Hermosa Beach was ranked second behind Indianapolis for the city’s “exceptional work” in developing and adopting “complete streets” policies to ensure its streets are safe for users of all ages and provide both pedestrian and transit access as well as incorporate features that make the city’s streets inviting and attractive as well as environmentally sustainable.
According to a release from the city, Stefanie Seskin, the deputy director for the National Complete Streets Coalition, said that Hermosa Beach and the other cities the coalition recognized had “done a stellar job drafting strong, comprehensive policies to create streets that work for everyone.”
Hermosa Beach was chosen as one of the top cities because of its adoption of the “Living Streets,” policy that commits the city to creating streets that are safe, accessible, sustainable and inviting.
The city’s Pier Avenue beautification project that turned upper Pier Avenue into a safer, more attractive and environmentally-friendly destination contributed to the recognition by the coalition because of the city’s wider sidewalks, storm drainage system and family and environmentally-friendly atmosphere. The city has begun planning upgrades for Pacific Coast Highway and Aviation Boulevard, to make them more pedestrian friendly as well.
In February, Hermosa Beach was the first community in the country to achieve Blue Zones Community Policy designation by the Blue Zones Project, a well-being initiative. The designation recognizes cities for creating a healthier environment for their citizens by adopting policies that make the community more liveable, walkable and bikeable. ER
