About 30 Manhattan Beach residents gathered in former mayor Portia Cohen’s garage on Tuesday with city staff and Vons representatives to discuss the construction of an employee parking lot behind Vons on 10th Place where a paint store currently sits.
The plan still needs approval by city commissioners and ultimately, city council.
While residents supported the beautification aspect of the project, they protested the current design, which proposes a 10th Place exit for cars. They worried it would increase traffic on an already crowded street. “There are children on this street,” said Andy Cohen, noting that more cars could be dangerous.
Resident Bill Heffernan felt more traffic could impact homes. “The street’s falling apart – if you add more traffic, you’re going to wear these houses down,” he said, adding that when cars pass, the houses shake.
Vons acquired the property about five years ago, said Jacki Hampton, a Vons representative. Residents’ opposition to a 10th Place exit is clear, she said, but for a plan everyone can agree on, “we need help from the city,” she said.
City staffers took notes on residents’ suggestions. “We will try to work with Vons to come up with a plan that the city council ultimately will approve,” said Richard Thompson, director of community development.
