Council District 6 Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 24, 2001

Contact: Michael Simonsen
619-236-6616
619-884-7335 Cell

FRYE AND THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO TAKE
OWNERSHIP OF BALBOA AVENUE

San Diego -- San Diego City Council Member Donna Frye today, on behalf of the City, ceremonially accepted ownership of Balboa Avenue from Assembly Member Christine Kehoe and representatives of the State of California. With this ownership transfer, the City of San Diego will receive $8.1 million to be used for Balboa and Rosecrans Avenue maintenance and improvements.

"This transfer will allow the constituents of District Six and the City of San Diego to have direct access to the decision makers now responsible for Balboa Avenue," Frye stated. "The communities number one goal is to make Balboa Avenue more pedestrian friendly. In order to achieve this goal, I will work closely with the Balboa Avenue Citizens Advisory Committee to identify and implement needed improvements aimed at achieving this goal."

Historically, Balboa Avenue has been a state highway. Years ago, Balboa Avenue ceased to function as a state highway, yet it was still under the control of the state. In June of this year, the San Diego City Council took action to gain control of Balboa Avenue from the State. As part of this deal, the State agreed to give the City $8.1 million dollars for road improvements. This action is significant because it will provide several things for the residents of San Diego; funds, control, clarity and accountability.

"Relinquishment should allow for the attainment of pedestrian safety enhancements that were not formerly possible within the confines and restrictions of the California State Highway Code requirements," stated Tom Schmidt, Chair of the Balboa Citizens Advisory Committee. "We will be hosting a community workshop on October 12, 2001 to develop the community's vision for a walkable Balboa Avenue. Everyone is welcome to attend."

"With this control, the City can now better regulate the speed and flow on Balboa Avenue," Frye said. "For instance, I have already asked the City Manager to change the speed limit between Mt. Everest Boulevard and Clairemont Drive from 55 to 45 mph. Doing so will make vehicle travel safer on that stretch of road because the speed will be consistent with the rest of Balboa Avenue."

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