Local Meeting Scheduled on Hill Avenue Circle

Local residents concerned about traffic conditions on North Hill Avenue will have an opportunity next week to weigh in on the latest design proposal for a second roundabout in the neighborhood.

The meeting will take place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Santa Catalina Library to discuss an updated concept for a roundabout at Hill Avenue and Elizabeth Street.

The meeting follows years of planning and feedback tied to the North Hill Avenue Complete Streets Project, launched to calm traffic speeds and improve safety along the 1.4-mile corridor connecting the neighborhood to the I-210 freeway.

The Complete Streets effort began in 2016, when the Pasadena Department of Transportation developed initial concept plans and met with residents who raised concerns about chronic speeding and its impacts on quality of life. The project’s goal is to balance transportation needs while improving safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.

Working with neighbors, the City proposed two mini-roundabouts at Topeka Street and Elizabeth Street. The Hill Avenue and Topeka Street roundabout has already been built. But after receiving additional community feedback expressing safety concerns about the Elizabeth Street design—and reports from some residents that the first roundabout was poorly designed and increased traffic hazards—staff returned to the drawing board.

The updated proposal includes a median island to separate lanes, rectangular rapid flashing beacons and upgraded roadway striping. Officials say the new features are intended to slow vehicle speeds and enhance pedestrian visibility.

Residents are encouraged to notify their City Council representative if they plan to attend the meeting. More information is available on the City’s website.