Westlake pedestrian safety project starts in Santa Cruz next Monday

Updated Monday, Sept. 8, 2014:

Construction is slated to begin Monday, Sept. 15 to improve the safety of walkways in the area of Westlake Elementary School.

Construction of the Westlake Neighborhood Pedestrian Safety Project was expected to begin this week but city officials said Monday it’s been pushed back a week.

Construction is expected to continue through November. Enhancements include construction of Americans with Disabilities Act compliant sidewalks, driveway approaches, curb ramps and pedestrian crossing improvements. The project is being funded through the federal Safe Routes to School program.

Two-way traffic will be maintained at all construction zones throughout the project, however, bicycle lanes will be intermittently closed. Drivers must proceed with caution as cyclists may use full vehicle lanes. Lane closures will be implemented during school hours if deemed necessary.

All efforts will be made to minimize traffic impacts so that students, parents and staff are able to arrive and depart safely from Westlake Elementary School.

Construction originally was planned for the summer vacation but delays in the funding and approval process pushed back the start date, city officials said.

There are five project location sites: High Street at Spring Street and Laurent Street, Moore Street and Bradley Drive, Bay Drive and Meder Street, Meder Street and Nobel Drive East, and Meder Street West.