COSTA MESA CITY COUNCIL WRAP-UP

Here are some of the decisions coming out of Monday’s City Council

meeting.

FAIRVIEW PARK

WHAT HAPPENED:

Steps toward restoration of natural plant life in Fairview Park were

taken as the council unanimously agreed to award a $351,470 design

contract.

The Public Services Department recommended David Evans and Associates

to design improvements for the northern lowlands and the mesa areas of

the park.

Improvements would include restoration of various scrubs, vernal pools

and California native grasslands. Proposals also call for these areas to

have multipurpose trails and a parking lot.

WHAT IT MEANS:

Representatives from David Evans and Associates will begin design work

on habitat rehabilitation.

Vote:

5-0, in favor of awarding the contract.

WILSON STREET SIGNAL

WHAT HAPPENED:

City officials approved the construction of a signal on Wilson Street,

designed to ease the flow of traffic on the congested corner that houses

both the Harbor Center and Kmart shopping center.

The City Council awarded an $87,195 contract to Baxter-Griffin Co. for

installation of the signal. According to the staff report, Baxter-Griffin

was the lowest bidder and is in “good standing.”

Councilwoman Karen Robinson was concerned about the light, saying it

may cause more traffic problems than it would solve.

Bill Morris, the director of public services, has said the traffic

division studied the proposed intersection and a light is the best

alternative. Morris said the city was looking for a way to make it safer

for pedestrians and drivers leaving the centers. Many accidents and

near-accidents have occurred on that portion of Wilson Street, caused by

those making left turns out of the center or pedestrians.

WHAT IT MEANS:

Baxter-Griffin Co. will begin construction on the signal.

Vote:

4-1, to award the construction contract. Robinson dissented.

NEXT MEETING

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. June 3

WHERE: Costa Mesa City Hall, 77 Fair Drive

INFORMATION: (714) 754-5225