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Home My WebLink AboutInformational Report - Monitor the El Paseo Pedestrian Imprvmnt PrjctCITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT CITY OF PALM DESERT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT MEETING DATE: December 12, 2019 PREPARED BY: Kevin Swartz, Associate Planner REQUEST: Receive and file an informational report and authorize staff to monitor the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project for an additional six-month period. Recommendation By Minute Motion: 1. Receive and file an informational report on the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project; and 2. Direct staff to continue monitoring the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project regarding the painted crosswalks, raised mid -block crossings, bulb -outs, and future parklets for six months. During that time, staff will observe the visual and aesthetic impacts on the community, and conduct field surveys to determine the effectiveness of measures intended to reduce vehicular speed, improve pedestrian safety, and increase the number of businesses visited in a single trip. At the end of the demonstration period, staff will report to the City Council with a formal recommendation; and 3. Provide any additional directives to staff related to the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project. Strategic Plan Obiective The El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements project fulfills priorities identified in the City's Strategic Plan, including the following: • Tourism and Marketing — Priority 1: `Improve access to Palm Desert and its attractions to enhance the ease of lifestyle." • Transportation — Priority 1: "Create walkable neighborhoods and areas within Palm Desert that would include residential, retail, services and employment centers, and parks, recreation and open space to reduce the use of low occupancy vehicles." • Transportation — Priority 3: "De-emphasize single/low-occupancy vehicles and optimize modes of travel (bus, carpool, golf -cart, bicycle, and pedestrian)." • Land Use - Priority 4: "Create a mixed -use city core integrating shopping, dining, lodging, and housing." December 12, 2019 - Staff Report El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/Demonstration Project Page 2 of 5 In addition, the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements Project, along with a parklet pilot program that staff is drafting, addresses the following initiatives listed in the Economic Development Strategic Plan approved by the City Council in 2018: • Revitalization of the El Paseo Key Commercial Corridor • Facilitate long-term market strengthening of the El Paseo District • Align City placemaking and other development plans and strategies with key City -designated infrastructure elements • Targeted development projects and special events to benefits they offer to the concept of "placemaking" Background Analysis The City's overall goal for El Paseo is to create a city center/downtown that provides high intensity mixed -use developments anchored by civic, cultural, entertainment, retail, and dining activity along walkable streetscapes. The street consists of four lanes (two each direction), an 18-foot wide median that includes art sculptures throughout, parallel curb adjacent parking, and a 10 to 15-foot sidewalk on each side. While sidewalks and on -street parking exist along the corridor, the significant pedestrian activity on El Paseo warrants additional measures to enhance pedestrian safety and promote a more pedestrian -friendly environment. On May 11, 2017, the City Council entered into a professional services agreement with Gibbs Planning Group. From June 2017 through July 2018, City staff, the City Council, business owners, and the El Paseo Merchants Association worked with Gibbs Planning Group. The efforts were to ensure the continued success of El Paseo and to create the vision of a walkable city center/downtown that includes high intensity mixed -use developments anchored by the civic, cultural, entertainment, dining, and retail uses that define a true public space. On September 6, 2018, the City Council approved the El Paseo Master Plan Alternatives (EPMPA) and the El Paseo Retail Market Study (as an appendix) prepared by Gibbs Planning Group to guide potential street configurations for El Paseo. The City Council also authorized staff to begin implementation of near -term recommendations as stated in the EPMPA, and to research and prepare a demonstration project utilizing concepts found in the EPMPA. Below are the near -term solutions that were identified: • Improve pedestrian crosswalk markings — This concept would brighten up the crosswalks and help slow down traffic by being more noticeable. This concept could also be applied with art, colors, or decorative materials. • Provide mid -block raised crossings — This concept would break up the longer blocks and allow shoppers to cross mid -block instead of having to walk farther to a stop sign or signal. The mid -block crossing would also slow down traffic, as cars would be stopping more frequently. This concept could also be applied with art and/or different colors. December 12, 2019 - Staff Report El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/Demonstration Project Page 3 of 5 • Ease pedestrian signals — This concept would eliminate the need for a pedestrian to push the signal button to cross the street. This concept would also slow down traffic which would make the pedestrian the priority. • Add parklets/dining decks — This concept would allow restaurants to construct a temporary dining deck within a parking space that would be used as a dining table. If approved, staff would develop a temporary permit with design standards and possible locations. In November 2018, the City implemented the ease of pedestrian signals by eliminating the need for a pedestrian to push the signal button to cross the street. At its September 12, 2019 City Council meeting, the City Council awarded Contract No. C38830 to Elecnor Belco Electric, Inc. for the near -term solutions/EI Paseo Pedestrian Improvements, which consists of the following elements: 1. Enhanced painted crosswalks, with colors and patterns designed by the City's branding and marketing consultant, pavement rehabilitation, new wheelchair ramps as needed, and painted bulb outs (delineator posts) at the intersections of El Paseo and: • San Pablo Avenue • Larkspur Lane 2. Install raised mid -block crosswalks with in -pavement crosswalk lights, flashing signs, pavement markings, and enhanced painted crosswalks at: • The Gardens at El Paseo on El Paseo • Mamma Gina's on El Paseo • Hotel Paseo on Larkspur Lane The City Council approved a cost of $858,011, and authorized the Director of Finance to set aside a twenty percent (20%) contingency for unanticipated conditions. Additionally, the City Council included enhanced painted crosswalks on the east side of the interaction of El Paseo and Highway 74. On September 30, 2019, construction of the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project commenced. As of November 26, 2019, the following has been completed: • Concrete and asphalt paving • Pavement markings • Decorative painting at the intersections of San Pablo Avenue, Larkspur Lane and Highway 74 • Installation of delineator posts at the intersections of San Pablo Avenue and Larkspur Lane to demonstrate the bulb -outs • Decorative painting of the raised mid -block crosswalks December 12, 2019 - Staff Report El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/Demonstration Project Page 4 of 5 The remaining work to be completed includes the installation of two bicycle racks at the intersection bulb -outs, and signs and in -pavement crosswalk lights at the three raised mid - block crosswalks. The contractor is expected to complete the project installation in December 2019. Discussion At its October 24, 2019 meeting, the City Council requested a report on the overall demonstration project for its December 12, 2019 meeting. Since the October 24, 2019 meeting, staff has received numerous phone calls and emails, and has had conversations with residents, business and property owners, and tourists regarding the demonstration project. Staff has received both positive and negative comments, mostly regarding the painted crosswalks. Staff continues to tabulate comments, and has launched a survey app to elicit further input from the public. Below is the url link to the survey. https://arcq.is/1 GueuL Staff has also been following social media platforms including Facebook and Nextdoor. Continuing to monitor the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project for six months allows staff to meaningfully assess the project by evaluating the project impact on the residents, business and property owners, tourists, and their perceptions of walkability and the pedestrian experience. The analysis framework will include the following: • Field surveys. Staff would continue to conduct the survey by walking business -to - business and conducting surveys on the street. Staff would also provide a more in- depth survey for merchants and provide a web link on the City's website, BrightSide Newsletter, and other platforms. • Collection of pedestrian counts at the raised mid -block crosswalks. • Comparison of speed data to identify the impact of the raised crosswalks on driver behavior and traffic speeds. • Evaluation of the performance of the painted crosswalks and maintenance strategies. The Public Works Department is continuing to analyze and monitor efforts to keep the crosswalks clean through street sweeping, pressure washing the crosswalks, and more. • Investigation of additional crosswalk materials such as pavers and stamped concrete. • Add visual aids within the bulb -out areas to increase awareness of their intended purpose. • Evaluate a long-term enhanced crosswalk program. Ideas include involving the City's Art in Public Places Commission for design review and approval, rotating the design every two years, similar to the art sculptures within the medians. December 12, 2019 - Staff Report El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/Demonstration Project Page 5 of 5 In addition to the already installed near -term solutions, staff is also working on installing two parklets/dining decks along El Paseo. Staff has met with a local architect who is in the process of submitting cost estimates for two to three different types of parklets. If the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project continues, staff anticipates requesting City Council approval of the two temporary parklets in January or February. In conclusion, approval of the staff recommendation will allow the El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project to continue for six months. Staff will report their findings including all comments at a future City Council meeting. Fiscal Analysis There is not a fiscal impact with this action. The El Paseo Pedestrian Improvements/demonstration project is intended to attract cross shopping and promote pedestrian walkability for a more enjoyable shopping experience. LEGAL REVIEW DEPT. REVIEW FINANCIAL ASSISTANT REVIEW CITY MAtJA N/A "p )J N/A Robert W. Hargreaves RyanyaStendell City Attorney Director of Comm. Dev. DrectoLof Finance City Manager Lauri Aylaian: Janet Moore 'Andy Fires n Assistant it Manager From: Debra Vogler imailto:debravoelerfame.coml Sent: Tuesday, December 10, 2019 8:08 PM To: Aylaian, Lauri <lavlaianPcitvofoalmdesert.org>; CityhallMail<Citvhallacitvofnalmdesert.org>; Kelly, Kathleen <kkellv(acitvofoalmdesert.org> Subject: The street improvements on El Paseo are much appreciated) Hello - The street improvements on El Paseo are wonderful!! I either drive or walk on El Paseo almost every single day (often both on the same day). The barriers on some of the corners serve as a reminder to drivers to slow down and not hurry through right turns. Similarly, the barriers give pedestrians a little extra buffer between them and cars, and ensure that they think twice before rushing out into the street. The speed bumps are also an improvement. I have seen a few letters to the editor in the Desert Sun that have been critical of the above changes, but I find them to be exactly what was needed to slow traffic and make the street more pedestrian friendly. Please feel free to share this email with whomever within the city offices or on the council you think would find this input helpful. Sincerely, Debra Vogler Shadow Mountain Drive Palm Desert y �:JC �p -r •• �� T J Y. Swartz, Kevin From: Bowman, Randy Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 12:52 PM To: Lawson, Brianne Cc: Klassen, Rachelle; Swartz, Kevin Subject: RE: Feedback for City of Palm Desert Copying in Kevin. Randy Bowman Project Manager Ph: 760.776.6493 Mobile: 614.286.6425 rbowman@cityofpalmdesert.org From: Lawson, Brianne Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 12:36 PM To: Bowman, Randy <rbowman@cityofpalmdesert.org> Cc: Klassen, Rachelle <rklassen@cityofpalmdesert.org> Subject: FW: Feedback for City of Palm Desert Another nice one! Brianne Lawson Office Specialist II Human Resources Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6309 blawson@cityofpalmdesert.org From: City of Palm Desert fmailto:webmasterecitvofoalmdesert.orgj Sent: Tuesday, October 29, 2019 9:29 AM To: Information Mail <info@citvofpalmdesert.org> Subject: Feedback for City of Palm Desert You have received this feedback from Stephen Evans < sceevansfds(a.vahoo.com > for the following page: httos://www.citvofoalmdesert.org/our-citvicontact-us My wife and I and many of our friends LOVE the new look of the crosswalks on El Paseo! 1 Swartz, Kevin From: Bowman, Randy Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 12:54 PM To: Lawson, Brianne Cc Klassen, Rachelle; Swartz, Kevin Subject: RE: I love the painted crosswalks! Copying in Kevin. Randy Bowman Project Manager Ph: 760.776.6493 Mobile: 614.286.6425 rbowman@cityofpalmdeseri.org From: Lawson, Brianne Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 12:34 PM To: Bowman, Randy <rbowman@cityofpalmdesert.org> Cc: Klassen, Rachelle <rklassen@cityofpalmdesert.org> Subject: FW: 1 love the painted crosswalks! This is a nice one! Brianne Lawson Office Specialist II Human Resources Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6309 blawson@cityofpalmdesert.org From: Mel Robertson, De -Clutter Expert fmailto:declutterinesoacesPemail.comj Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 10:31 AM To: Information Mail <info@citvofoalmdesert.ore> Subject: I love the painted crosswalks! Hello Fabulous City Staff! GSM CJI I love the new painted crosswalks! What a great idea. My only thought would be to use a different type of paint, not a flat. Something that can clean easily because of all the tire and oil grime that will build up. Can't wait to see more of what's in store! Keep up the great work! I love this city! 1 Swartz. Kevin From: Nancy McCulloch <nancy.mcculloch39@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, November 11, 2019 3:25 PM To: Firestine, Andy Subject: Crosswalks on Palm Desert Ugly and distracting for drivers. White poles are stupid...some surely will hit one, if it hasn't already happened... I really think the integrity of that beautiful street is being challenged by these recent changes. Could you please tell me how much has been spent on these changes? Thank you Nancy McCulloch Resident since 1991 Sent from my iPad N C . J 1 Swartz, Kevin From: Alan Gregg Cohen <allcoh7@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, November 11, 2019 12:54 PM To: Firestine, Andy Subject: Painted Pedestrian Crosswalks on El Paseo I don't know if you have received the emails from Nextdoor, but it seems like the consensus in the city of Palm Desert is that most find the newly painted crosswalks tacky and ugly. I hope that the city council will take this under consideration and maybe ask the residents to vote on proposed designs for the crosswalks. At this point I think the city council has ruffled the feathers of a lot of residents and I hope they reconsider the design of these crosswalks. 1 From: Jeannie Collins [JCollins@nat.comj Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2019 11:15 AM To: weber Subject: El Paseo cross walks Good morning As a new full time Palm Desert resident (due to the short-term rentals Going away) I'm VERY disappointed to see what is happening with our crosswalks on beautiful El Paseo. I took a photo and posted it on the next door site to get neighbor opinions...NOBODY likes it and feels it's a waste of our money. I'd like to understand the thought process behind doing this? I look forward to hearing from you l Thank you CJ1 J lama: (o) Palm Desert Resident Comments or Concerns: The new crosswalk designs on El Paseo are atrocious. The loud primary colors really detract from the elegance of the street. A design employing the use of more subtle colors such as a range from light to dark brown or light to dark peach using a simple design such as stripes would enhance the beauty of the street. Thank you, City of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management SystemTM. Please do not reply directly to this email. 2 Swartz, Kevin From: Hermann, David Sent: Tuesday, November 12, 2019 12:50 PM To: Swartz, Kevin Cc: Bowman, Randy; Garcia, Tom; Soule, Thomas Subject: FW: El Paseo traffic Hi Kevin, We received the message below over the weekend regarding the pedestrian improvements on El Paseo. Thanks very much for any information that you can provide to Mr. Simmer and please let me know if I can be of any help. David David Hermann Public Information Officer Ph: 760.776.6411 Direct: 760.776.6380 dhermann@cityofpalmdesert.org -----Original Message --- From: Earthlink mail [mailto:revolor@earthlink.net] Sent: Sunday, November 10, 2019 1:18 PM To: Information Mail <info@cityofpalmdesert.org> Subject: El Paseo traffic Yesterday I was driving West on El Paseo. I came upon two intersections where recently White stanchions and marked off green islands have been installed on the street, What a confusing mess... I watching pedestrians and traffic trying to make turn with little turning radius and pedestrians trying to figure out if they can cross or not. I think you should obtain the services of a certified Traffic Engineer because there's a serious accident or pedestrian injury or fatality. These installations are very confusing. Michael J. Bimmer u1 • 1 City Palm Desert State California ZIP Code 92260 I am a: (o) Palm Desert Resident Comments or Concems: I live on San Pablo behnind apple computers, drive and walk several times a day through the Intersection of San Pabko and El Paseo. It's still a nightmare whether I'm walking or driving. Making a left turn West onto El Paseo Is very distracting and don't know where to look. When walking I'm still very careful as not much has changed, cars will still run you over) I see everyday they run red lights and stop signsl I am in San Diego alot and the busy intersection downtown has a diagonal crossing which works wonderful, all cars stop and let pedestrians cross at once. Thank you for your consideration in advance. It's worth a tryilli Joanne Thank you, City of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System"'. Please do not reply directly to this email. 2 I am a: (o) Palm Desert Resident Comments or Concems: Hello there, I'd Just like to say how much I appreciate the new crosswalks on el Paseo. Apparently there are some that do not feel that the cross walks and the San Pablo project are worth while. I however, am glad that the city administration is taking the initiative to change our town areas to be more Interesting to pedestrians. As we know, stores need to be occupied and sometimes things need to change in order to Improve occupancy. As a tax payer, paint seems like an inexpensive and fun way to make some changes. Thank you for your effort. Thank you, City of Palm Desert This Is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System"'. Please do not reply directly to this email. 2 Swartz, Kevin From: Hermann, David Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2019 12:01 PM To: Swartz, Kevin Cc Bowman, Randy; Soule, Thomas Subject FW: Crosswalks Hi Kevin, We received the message below today regarding the pedestrian improvements on El Paseo. Thanks very much for any information that you can provide to Ms. Simmons. David David Hermann Public Information Officer Ph: 760.776.6411 Direct: 760.776.6380 dhermann@cityofpalmdesert.org -----Original Message ---- From: Colleen Simmons [mailto:colleen@colleensimmonsdesign.com] Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2019 10:57 AM To: Information Mail <info@cityofpalmdesert.org> Subject: Crosswalks Hello, I am so alarmed at the unfortunate painting of the crosswalks down El Paseo. Now, you are painting the speed bumps. First of all the colors selected show every tire mark and look really tacky already especially the yellow. Who designed it? I am a professional high end interior designer and this really is such an eyesore. PD has too much money to spend on such a frivolous project and it already looks bad. Not worth it!!! Best, Colleen Colleen Simmons Design Sent from my iPhone c Sent from my iPhone ' o r r ,r. Crl 1 Swartz, Kevin From: Hermann, David Sent Tuesday, November 12, 2019 12:44 PM To: Swartz, Kevin Subject: FW: Crosswalks Attachments: IMG 3603 jpg; ATT00001.txt Hi Kevin, This is a follow up email to an earlier one about the El Paseo crosswalks. David David Hermann Public Information Officer Ph: 760.776.6411 Direct: 760.776.6380 dhermann@cityofpalmdesert.org Original Message --- From: Colleen Simmons (mailto:colleen@colieensimmonsdesign.com] Sent: Saturday, November 09, 2019 7:32 PM To: Information Mail <info@cityofpalmdesert.org> Subject: Crosswalks Hi again! These colors and simpler design would be great! Best, Colleen 1 Email Address ReomearaOtwc.com Phone Number 7606417424 Address 73915 Saguaro ct Address 2 Not answered City Palm Desert State California ZIP Code 92260 I am a: (o) Palm Desert Resident Comments or Concerns: Who was the "genius" who decided to paint the crosswalks and Install all of those rubber posts on El Paseo? In my opinion it looks terrible,cheap and messy. Our beautuful El Paseo doesn't deserve this. If the reason was to get attention of drivers or pedestrians how is a painted crosswalk going to do the job. Keep our prized street classy,clean and uncluttered. How much did this cost btw? While I'm complaining.... those new plants on Haystack need a good dose of water. I counted 7 Palms that look dead and I'm sure there are more to come. Thanks for listening. Thank you, City of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management SystemTM. Please do not reply directly to this email. 2 C11 I will be happy to respond to Mr. Spurgeon if that would be helpful. David David Hermann Public Information Officer Ph: 760.776.6411 Direct: 760.776.6380 dhermann@cityofpalmdesert.org From: webmasterPcitvofoalmdesert.org jmailto:webmasterPcitvofoaimdesert.ond Sent: Friday, November 01, 2019 5:33 PM To: Information Mail <info(a citvofoalmdesert.ore<> Subject: City of Palm Desert: Website Contact Us Form Submission A new entry to a form/survey has been submitted. Form Name: Contact Us Date & Time: 11/01/2019 5:32 PM Response #: 1901 Submitter ID: 14050 IP address: 2605:e000:fd40:e000:edb9:e2b5:d42c:fefb Time to complete: 10 min. , 36 sec. Survey Details Page 1 Your Contact information First Name Stephen Last Name Spurgeon Email Address sourR7400Rmali.com Phone Number 4155185174 Address 71170 Tamarisk Ln Address 2 Not answered City Rancho Mirage State California ZIP Code 92270 I am a: (o) Visitor Comments or Concerns: The decision to paint El Paseo streets/crosswalks in circus colors was a poor one. I visited El Paseo this week was taken aback by the tacky, cheap looking distraction (and the stanchions already tilting different directions). I'm sure the rationale was somehow linked to safety, but haven't drivers been stopping at crosswalks and turning corners for years? It definitely looks like a solution in search of a problem. As an aside, I routinely take out-of-town guests to restaurants on the street to "show-off" my pride in our valley. After last week, I moved a dinner reservation for guests from Chicago tomorrow night to La Spiga; I'm too embarrassed to take them to II Corso. 2 Form Name: Contact Us Date & Time: 11/01/2019 5:32 PM Response #: 1901 Submitter ID: 14050 IP address: 2605:e000:fd40:e000:edb9:e2b5:d42c:fefb Time to complete: 10 min. , 36 sec. Survey Details Page 1 Your Contact information First Name Stephen Last Name Spurgeon Email Address saure7400email.com Phone Number 4155185174 Address 71170 Tamarisk Ln Address 2 Not answered City Rancho Mirage State California ZIP Code 92270 I am a: (o) Visitor Comments or Concerns: The decision to paint El Paseo streets/crosswalks in circus colors was a poor one. I visited El Paseo this week was taken aback by the tacky, cheap looking distraction (and the stanchions already tilting different directions). I'm sure the rationale was somehow linked to safety, but haven't drivers been stopping at crosswalks and turning comers for years? It definitely looks like a solution In search of a problem. As an aside, I routinely take out-of-town guests to restaurants on the street to "show-off' my pride in our valley. After last week, I moved a dinner reservation for guests from Chicago tomorrow night to La Spiga; I'm too embarrassed to take them to II Corso. Thank you, City of Palm Desert This Is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System'. Please do not reply directly to this email. 17. 2 Swartz, Kevin From: Bowman, Randy Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 12:55 PM To: Lawson, Brianne Cc: Klassen, Rachelle; Swartz, Kevin Subject RE: Changes on El Paseo Copying in Kevin. Randy Bowman Project Manager Ph: 760.776.6493 Mobile: 614.286.6425 rbowman@cityofpatmdesert.org From: Lawson, Brianne Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 12:32 PM To: Bowman, Randy <rbowman@cityofpalmdesert.org> Cc: Klassen, Rachelle <rklassen@cityofpalmdesert.org> Subject: FW: Changes on El Paseo I'm sorry...I have quite a few of these to forward from the City's Informational e-mail. Brianne Lawson Office Specialist II Human Resources Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6309 blawson@cityofpalmdesert.org From: fjmccaughey Imailto:fimccauehev@aol.comj Sent: Tuesday, October 29, 2019 5:26 PM To: Information Mail <infoc citvofoatmdesert.ors> Subject: Changes on El Paseo On Saturday my husband and I were driving down El Paseo on our way out to lunch. I want the City to know that I feel the changes on El Paseo are outlandish. The crosswalks & overflow areas look like they were graffitied. The protective barriers at the corners are ugly. These barriers are an accident waiting to happen and are going to confuse some elderly people into thinking they should pull in there to tum right. These changes do nothing to make El Paseo tlook upscale & sophisticated, but "ghetto"!!! I believe these changes are a waste of taxpayer money and were not well thought out. Concerned neighbor living in Palm Desert, 1 Page 1 Your Contact Information First Name Email Address Address City ZIP Code lama: (o) Palm Desert Resident VICKY vkheinrich600email.com 43210 TEXAS AVE PALM DESERT 92211 Last Name Phone Number Address 2 State HEINRICH 7607729146 Not answered California Comments or Concems: Who ever thought of painting the crosswalk on El Paseo with those ugly, awful colors is beyond me. Thar is not El Paseo represents. You have taken away the class of El Paeso. It is no longer the " El Paseo of Beverly Hills." It looks like the gem of the Date Festival. So disappointing. Thank you, City of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System"'. Please do not reply directly to this email. 0 ; 73 n� Or'nC) rn +fr. cn 7z rn -ems 2 Page 1 Your Contact information First Name Email Address Address City ZIP Code I am a: (o) Palm Desert Resident Joanne ioanneld(alamail.com 45419 San Pablo Palm Desert 92260 Last Name Phone Number Address 2 State dennis 8489977000 Not answered California Comments or Concems: The new sidewalk paintings are very distracting and take away from our "high end" El Paseo. It really cheapened the 2 block area and we are being laughed at outloud on the streets. Perhaps we need a new committee to enhance our community and not misuse funds on a trial and error of the busiest corner of El Paseo. I agree we need to make it safer, I carefully cross everyday to starbucks and it can be scary however, let's come up with a classer way of keeping us safe. Thank you, City of Palm Desert This 1s an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System"'. Please do not reply directly to this email. 2 Page 1 Your Contact Information First Name Email Address Address City ZIP Code I am a: (o) Palm Desert Resident Dianne dianneveakeI(vahoo.com 78877 Adesso Way Palm Desert 92211 Last Name Phone Number Address 2 State Yeakel 7609024619 Not answered California Comments or Concerns: For whatever it's worth, I absolutely object to the El Paseo crosswalks (and speed bumps). I have lived in the the valley since 1989 and my first thought was...actually I couldn't think straight while I was being distracted by a rainbow on the street...frankly I was mortified! The beautiful uptown shopping district that all of us Coachella Valley residents are so proud of was just cheesedI The street signals and stop signs are close together to encourage people to drive slow, but now speed bumps! With all the high end autos that travel El Paseo, I'm pretty sure the speed bumps will not be a hit either. How about a couple of carefully positioned yellow "slow" lights instead. A friend of mine, Bob Harriman, the Planning Commissioner for the City of Victorville had these comments when I asked his opinion (and by the way he stated he wouldn't have approved it): 1. The paint will be blackened and worn off in a very short period of time especially during the hot summer temperatures requiring it to be re -painted continuously. 2. If It Is indeed art work, it will be destroyed in no time. 3. Those are terrible colors! There are too many bright colors that don't blend well with contemporary architecture and desert landscape. Remember It's the desert, not Hollywood. 4. If colors are necessary, then why wouldn't the city took at natural colors like brown, tan, dark tan, desert sunset orange, and terracotta? In my opinion, this is the worst / ugliest idea of improvement since the Stater Bros shopping center at Washington and Highway 111 in La Quinta was built. Come on Palm Desert, what are you thinking)?I? Dianne Yeakel Long Time Resident Thank you, City of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System'". Please do not reply directly to this email. 2 'D Page 1 Your Contact Information First Name Email Address Address City ZIP Code I am a: (o) Palm Desert Resident Linda Lincharlie@aol.com 73221 Haystack Rd. Palm Desert 92260 Last Name Phone Number Address 2 State Garbarini 7607769773 Not answered California Comments or Concerns: What a wast of money and time when someone decided that painting our crosswalks on ElPaseo as that of a kindergartener, was "artsy"..1 think Palm Desert is going backwards) There are so many better ways to spend time and money that would benefit residents and tourists more than "friendly" crosswalks. Total, total waste of money) If you want artsy, get a chalk artist to come in and do some fabulous artwork, highlighting a different artist at each crosswalk. If you've seen some of their work, you would know what art actually is. Thank you, City of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System"'. Please do not reply directly to this email. CAD 0 .,, :D Ut �.D 2 Response #: 1874 Submitter ID: 14014 IP address: 72.132.60.55 Time to complete: 8 min. , 8 sec. Survey Details Page 1 Your Contact Information First Name Lynn Anne Last Name Brickwedel Email Address brickwedelPhotmail.com Phone Number 7074997100 Address 45895 Pima Road Address 2 Not answered City Indian Wells State California ZIP Code 92210 I am a: (o) Visitor Comments or Concerns: Hello, My friends and I that frequent the Starbucks at El Paseo and San Pablo are so disappointed with the pedestrian walkway painting on the ground. It is really bad. The colors are already tire marked with black tread marks. Why was this done? It's hideous and doesn't make sense for a beautiful area like El Paseo. Why not have wrought Iron archways made across both entrances (above the traffic) to El Paseo? They can say 'Palm Desert". or 'El Paseo'. Something very rich looking and welcoming N5should be done. Take it from the city of Pleasanton Calif. Downtown they have 2 beautiful 'Pleasanton' signs above Main Street. Come on....get smart -If you need help for ideas, contact me. Thank you, Clty of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management System'". Please do not reply directly to this email. 2 o ' c� Swartz, Kevin From: Bowman, Randy Sent: Monday, October 21, 2019 12:31 PM To: Swartz, Kevin; Olson, Wayne Subject: FW: One Man's Opinion FYI Randy Bowman Senior Engineer Ph: 760.776.6493 Mobile: 614.286.6425 rbowman@cifyofpalmdeseri.org From: Hermann, David Sent: Monday, October 21, 2019 12:28 PM To: Bowman, Randy <rbowman@cityofpalmdesert.org> Cc: Garcia, Tom <tgarcia@cityofpalmdesert.org>; Aylaian, Lauri <Iaylaian@cityofpalmdesert.org>; Stendell, Ryan <rstendell@cityofpalmdesert.org>; Alvarez, Martin <malvarez@cityofpalmdesert.org>; Soule, Thomas <tsoule@cityofpalmdesert.org> Subject: FW: One Man's Opinion Hi Randy, I am passing on the feedback below today from a member of the public regarding the painted crosswalks on El Paseo. I will respond to Mr. Roseman and thank him for sharing his input with the City. David David Hermann Public Information Officer Ph: 760.776.6411 Direct: 760.776.6380 dhermann@cityofpalmdesert.org From: Steven Roseman fmailto:sir6170icloud.com1 Sent: Saturday, October 19, 2019 3:21 PM To: Information Mail <infoPcitvofaaimdesert.orR> Subject: One Man's Opinion c: In my opinion, the painting done on the streets of el Paseo is ugly, garish, and cheapens what is promoted as an upscale area. 1 I am a: (o) Palm Desert Resident Comments or Concerns: I would like to submit a comment about the new sidewalk designs and safety measures on El Paseo. I have lived and owned a business in Palm Desert for 38 years. I've watched and enjoyed so many of the improvements to the city while a resident, I enjoy the art installments and landscaping on El Paseo, however, I'm sorely disappointed with the new El Paseo " improvements". The crosswalks, In my opinion, look very amateurish and temporary, as if I've sent an 8 year old out with sidewalk chalk to design them. It's not only the crosswalks though, the white car bumpers? on Larkspur are distracting and confusing. Please, before you spend any more money, consider what you want visitors and residence alike to experience. The city has beautiful parks, mountains to hike and the Living Desert, don't spoil the feeling and esthetic of the beautiful desert landscape. Respectfully, Chris Lyman Thank you, City of Palm Desert This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management SystemTM. Please do not reply directly to this email. C p £ D 2 Swartz, Kevin From: Evans, Donna Sent: Thursday, November 14, 2019 3:29 PM To: Aylaian, Lauri; Weber, Susan Marie Cc: Swartz, Kevin; Firestine, Andy Subject: Resident complaint: El Paseo To: City Manager & Mayor of Palm Desert I received a call from a long-time Palm Desert resident who stated that she was "appalled by the condition of El Paseo and would like to meet the people who made the decision to do this. El Paseo is ruined. It looks junky and cheap. It's hard to drive around the posts on the corners and make right turns. The paint looks cheap and horrible. Can't believe that the City used our tax dollars to ruin El Paseo. People who are coming into town are laughing and shop owners are complaining. Hasn't met one person who likes it. The amount of money that was spent on this is ridiculous. The City Council who voted for this will not be getting any votes from a lot of people. Can't believe that this has happened to Palm Desert. The crosswalks in the middle of the blocks are so dangerous, especially at night." She also said that there are many, many complaints on the Next Door app about El Paseo. Jean Moffat & Dr. Moffat (760) 774-9599 Donna Evans Executive Assistant Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776,6488 devans@cityofpalmdesert.org CITY OF "R:.%,` DE. EF- www.cityofpalmdesert.org 0 Install the Palm Desert In Touch app to stay in touch with your community Android Apple Mobile Web r 73__I cr .-o 1 Swartz, Kevin From: Evans, Donna Sent Thursday, November 14, 2019 4:07 PM To: Aylaian, Lauri; Weber, Susan Marie Cc Swartz, Kevin; Firestine, Andy Subject: Another Resident Complaint El Paseo A Palm Desert resident phoned to complain about El Paseo and stated that the City is "trying to fix something that's not broken. Be assured that the employees and store owners say that it's a disaster. The paint looks terrible and traffic is backed up on El Paseo due to the posts that have been installed that narrow the street so that no one can make a right turn on a red light; therefore, cars are stacked all the way down the street. It makes it very difficult to turn right and it forces vehicles to get dangerously close to oncoming traffic. There's no way that a delivery truck will be able to make that turn without going into the opposite lane. People are saying that the problem is that there's a new City Manager who let this happen and that the old City Manager would never have allowed it." Randy Barb (909) 917-4176 Donna Evans Executive Assistant Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6488 devans@cityofpalmdesert.org CITY OF PALM DESERT www.cityofpalmdesert.org 00 Install the Palm Desert In Touch app to stay in touch with your community Android Apple Mobile Web 1