Venice community debates safety measures versus sidewalk installation on Bayshore Drive

On July 7, 2025, residents of Venice gathered for an information session regarding safety alternatives for Bayshore Drive and Laguna Drive. The meeting highlighted ongoing concerns about pedestrian safety and traffic management in the area, with community members expressing a mix of frustration and hope for effective solutions.

A key discussion point was the proposal of various safety measures, including the installation of speed humps and digital speed display signs. One resident emphasized that these alternatives could be more cost-effective than constructing sidewalks, which could run into millions of dollars. The suggestion to implement speed humps was met with resistance from local law enforcement, particularly the police chief, who expressed concerns about the impact on emergency response times. This tension between safety measures and emergency services was a focal point of the meeting, with residents urging for a trial period to assess the effectiveness of speed humps.

Another resident, Carol Humes, voiced her frustration with the ongoing discussions, noting that the road has not significantly changed since the 1950s, despite the increase in traffic and housing in the area. She argued for the necessity of a dedicated pedestrian space to enhance safety, particularly for walkers and cyclists. Humes highlighted the division within the community over the sidewalk issue, suggesting that the city should take decisive action to resolve the matter rather than leaving it to residents to propose solutions.

The meeting concluded with a call for the city to take responsibility for implementing safety measures, as residents expressed a desire for a resolution that accommodates both pedestrian safety and community concerns. The discussions underscored the need for a balanced approach to urban planning that considers the evolving dynamics of the neighborhood while prioritizing safety for all road users. As the community awaits further action from city officials, the dialogue around safety alternatives continues to be a pressing issue for Venice residents.