Concerns over the removal of crosswalk on Fountain and Pine Avenue in Pacific Grove

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif. (KION-TV): On Wednesday night, Pacific Grove City Council will be discussing re-establishing a crosswalk at an intersection near an elementary school.

Pacific Grove Mayor Bill Peake said the crosswalk at the corner of Fountain and Pine Avenue was removed at the recommendation of city engineers, but some people in the area said its removal is a danger to people who walk around there.

"Pine Avenue is a 4 lane, two in each direction, so it's a large street and we're looking for ways to improve safety, pedestrian safety at that location." said Pacific Grove Mayor Bill Peake.

Peake said Councilmember Debbie Beck was the one who said to consider re-establishing the crosswalks and stop signs in the area. The crosswalk that was removed is by Robert Down Elementary school.

A report from the city also indicates middle school students cross the intersection frequently.

"We're going to look at other options for improving pedestrian safety for children at those intersections in front of Robert Down Elementary." said Mayor Peake.

People who live in Pacific Grove think there should be more pedestrian safety in-front of Robert Down Elementary. The city said Pacific Grove police also had concerns because of the removal of the cross walk.

"Driver behavior on Pine Avenue, drivers creating unsafe conditions by making illegal maneuvers like u-turns right in front of the school on Pine Avenue," said Mayor Peake.

Mayor Peake said what will most likely happen during Wednesday's city council meeting is they will give direction to the city manager, and the city manager will direct Public Works to see if any changes need to be made. City leaders also said they want to hear from school officials at Robert Down Elementary school and the school district to see if they also have a solution as well.