La Jolla, California, December 25, 2025
Residents from La Jolla and Pacific Beach are urging the San Diego City Council to reduce the speed limit on La Jolla Boulevard to enhance pedestrian safety. Citing hazardous conditions, especially near Tourmaline Surf Park, a coalition of locals and businesses has submitted a petition supported by over 200 signatures. They seek action based on Assembly Bill 43, which allows municipalities to impose lower speed limits. The La Jolla Traffic and Transportation Board is currently evaluating this proposal with recommendations expected by 2026.
La Jolla Residents Push for Speed Limit Changes on Boulevard
La Jolla, California – Residents from La Jolla and Pacific Beach have collectively urged the San Diego City Council to lower the speed limit on La Jolla Boulevard between Pacific Beach and Bird Rock. This initiative aims to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce traffic-related incidents in the area.
Community Concerns and Actions
Local residents have expressed concerns over the existing 35 mph speed limit on La Jolla Boulevard, citing hazardous conditions, especially near popular destinations like Tourmaline Surf Park. In response, a coalition of community members and local businesses has submitted a joint letter to City Council President Joe LaCava, advocating for a reduction in the speed limit. The letter emphasizes that the current speed limit is higher than those on connecting streets, potentially encouraging drivers to accelerate unsafely. The coalition also highlights the support of over 200 individuals who have signed a petition calling for this change.
Legal Framework and Support
The push for a speed limit reduction is supported by Assembly Bill 43 (AB 43), a state law that empowers municipalities to lower speed limits without conducting extensive traffic studies. This legislation has been utilized by other cities to implement similar measures aimed at improving road safety. The La Jolla Traffic and Transportation Board is currently evaluating the feasibility of applying AB 43 to La Jolla Boulevard, with an expected report in approximately 90 days. The board has acknowledged the community’s concerns and is considering the potential impact of the new law on local traffic conditions.
Background Context
La Jolla Boulevard serves as a primary route connecting Pacific Beach and La Jolla, accommodating both local residents and visitors. The area is known for its vibrant community and attractions, including Tourmaline Surf Park, a renowned surfing destination. Previous efforts to address traffic safety have included the installation of roundabouts along La Jolla Boulevard in 2005, aimed at reducing speed and promoting safer driving behaviors. However, residents continue to advocate for further measures to enhance safety, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.
Next Steps
The La Jolla Traffic and Transportation Board is expected to complete its evaluation of the proposed speed limit reduction by early 2026. Following this assessment, the board will provide recommendations to the San Diego City Council, which will make the final decision regarding the implementation of the new speed limit. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming public meetings to voice their support for the proposed changes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current speed limit on La Jolla Boulevard between Pacific Beach and Bird Rock?
The current speed limit is 35 mph.
Why are residents advocating for a speed limit reduction?
Residents are concerned about hazardous conditions, particularly near Tourmaline Surf Park, and believe that lowering the speed limit will enhance pedestrian safety and reduce traffic-related incidents.
What is Assembly Bill 43 (AB 43)?
AB 43 is a state law that allows municipalities to lower speed limits without conducting extensive traffic studies, aiming to improve road safety.
What is the La Jolla Traffic and Transportation Board’s role in this process?
The board is evaluating the feasibility of applying AB 43 to La Jolla Boulevard and is expected to provide recommendations to the San Diego City Council by early 2026.
How can community members get involved?
Community members can stay informed by attending public meetings and voicing their support for the proposed speed limit reduction.
Key Features of the Speed Limit Reduction Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Current Speed Limit | 35 mph on La Jolla Boulevard between Pacific Beach and Bird Rock |
| Proposed Speed Limit | Reduction to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce traffic-related incidents |
| Supporting Legislation | Assembly Bill 43 (AB 43), allowing municipalities to lower speed limits without extensive traffic studies |
| Evaluation Timeline | La Jolla Traffic and Transportation Board to provide recommendations by early 2026 |
| Community Involvement | Residents encouraged to attend public meetings and voice support for the proposed changes |
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