WEST HOLLYWOOD—On Friday, September 26, the city of West Hollywood announced that additional steps are being taken to improve traffic safety as part of our WeHo Target Vision Zero Action Plan.
On Fountain Avenue, the speed limit has been reduced from 35 to 30 mph, adding to measures like left-turn restrictions and upgraded pedestrian crossings in busy areas.
Near-term improvements will include Leading Pedestrian Intervals, which will give walkers a head start before cars get a green light, and certain signals placed in recall mode to help calm nighttime speeding.
The West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station will also continue targeted enforcement to keep roadway users safe. A larger streetscape project is underway to make Fountain Avenue safer for all.
Data shows that 64 percent of the traffic on Fountain does not have an origin or destination in West Hollywood, which means that most drivers are just passing through. This presents an opportunity to develop a future Fountain Avenue that is more local-serving and safer for everyone, with wider sidewalks and improved access for those walking, biking, and in wheelchairs.
A feasibility study was completed in 2022 to envision a future for Fountain Avenue. Over 1,400 people responded to the community survey – 60 percent of respondents chose a protected bike lane and widened sidewalks as their preferred vision.
The project will be implemented in two phases, allowing the city of West Hollywood to implement safety improvements quickly while seeking funding for the long-term vision. Phase One will implement a protected bike lane. Phase Two will implement the sidewalk widening and landscape improvements. Design for Phase One started in Fall 2023.
Residents are asked to stay engaged and share feedback at www.go.weho.org/fountain.
By Danny Jones
