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Traffic targeted in Metlox EIR draft
by Dan Bialek
A draft Environmental Impact Report for the proposed civic center development at the former Metlox Potteries site lists increased auto traffic as a significant and unavoidable result of the project.
The report, released on Friday by city officials, states that increased traffic could be expected at the two intersections studied on Manhattan Beach Boulevard -- Valley Drive/Ardmore Avenue and Highland -- during peak hours in the summer.
Many residents have expressed their concerns about increased traffic.
"The only thing that is important to me is traffic," wrote David Whitcombe in a letter to the Community Development Department in December. "If traffic levels are excessive, then the project should be canceled outright."
The report analyzed environmental issues such as aesthetics, air quality, land use, public safety, transportation, water quality, and noise.
Rosemary Lakow, senior planner for Manhattan Beach, said that the report will be used as a tool to make informed decisions about what action to take.
"The report is there to help the city council and citizens understand the project and its impacts. Residents who send in questions or concerns will have them answered individually after the 45-day public comment period has ended and the draft has gone back to the consultants," Lakow said.
Residents can view the report at Manhattan Beach City Hall or the civic library. The executive summary of the report is available at no charge at the Community Development Department office at City Hall, and the entire report will soon be available online at the city's website, www.ci.manhattan-beach.ca.us. ER