AGENDA
ITEM
5 Agenda
Item
CALEXICO California
WHERE CALIFORNIA AND MEXICO MEET
5 CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA STAFF REPORT
DATE: December 18, 2024
TO: Mayor and City Council
REVIEWED BY: Juan Contreras, Acting City Manager Ae
PREPARED BY: Armando Orozco, Police Chief AO
SUBJECT: Red Zones in Calexico: California Laws, City Ordinances, and Solutions to Improve Traffic for Emergency Vehicles, Street Sweepers and Trash Trucks.
Purpose: To present an overview of the existing California laws and city ordinances regulating red zones in the City of Calexico and to propose solutions aimed at addressing parking traffic to facilitate access for emergency vehicles, street sweepers and trash trucks.
Background: Red zones are designated areas where parking is prohibited to ensure unobstructed access for emergency vehicles, street maintenance, and essential public services.
The California Vehicle Code (CVC) Sections 22500-22526 regulate parking and stopping restrictions statewide. The enforcement of red zones is essential for maintaining public safety and city services such as street sweeping and waste collection.
Process to request the installation of a red curb in Calexico, follow these steps:
1. Contact the Calexico Police Department:
Reach out to the City of Calexico's Police Department to initiate your request. They can provide guidance on the necessary procedures and any required forms. • Address: 420 E. Fifth St., Calexico, CA 92231
• Phone: (760) 768-2140
• City Website: City of Calexico Police's Department
2. Submit a Formal Request: Prepare a written request detailing the specific location and reasoning for the red curb installation. Include any supporting information, such as safety concerns or traffic issues.
3. Review Process: The Police Department will evaluate your request based on city policies, safety considerations, and traffic regulations. This may involve site inspections or consultations with other city departments.
4. Notification of Decision:
After the review, the department will inform you of their decision. If approved, they will provide information on the timeline for the red curb installation. A work order is then generated with Public Works to have the curb painted.
Please note that procedures and requirements may change. It's advisable to contact the Police Department directly for the most current information.
California Laws Relevant to Red Zones:
1. California Vehicle Code (CVC) 22500: Prohibits parking in specific areas, including intersections, crosswalks, and places that would obstruct traffic flow.
2. CVC 21458: Provides authority for local jurisdictions to establish and mark zones to manage parking and stopping.
3. CVC 22507: Allows local authorities to create ordinances restricting parking to facilitate public services.
Calexico City Ordinances on Red Zones:
1. City Ordinance No. 10.24.030 - Prohibited stopping places.
2. City Ordinance No. 10.24.090 - No-parking zones.
3. City Ordinance No. 10.28.220 - Parking meter zones on state highways within city-Approval of Department of Transportation.
Issues Identified:
• Obstructed Access: Emergency vehicles, Street sweepers and trash trucks frequently face challenges navigating residential and commercial areas due to illegally parked vehicles in red zones.
2 • Inadequate Signage and Marking: Some areas lack clear markings and signs to indicate the extent of red zones, contributing to unintentional violations. The red curbs are painted as needed or as budget allows.
• Insufficient Enforcement: Limited enforcement capacity reduces compliance with existing regulations.
Proposed Solutions:
1. Enhanced Markings and Signage:
• Repaint and maintain clear, visible red zone markings. • Install additional "No Parking" signs in areas frequently obstructed by parked vehicles.
2. Public Awareness Campaign:
• Initiate a public education program to inform residents and businesses about the importance of red zones for city services and the penalties for violations. • Collaborate with local media and community organizations for outreach.
3. Increased Enforcement:
• Implement a stricter enforcement strategy during designated street sweeping and waste collection times.
• Coordinate with the Calexico Police Department to enhance patrols and issue citations for violations.
4. Adjusting Street Sweeping and Trash Collection Schedules:
• Review current schedules and identify opportunities to adjust timings to better align with lower parking density periods.
• Communicate any schedule changes to the public to minimize disruptions and ensure compliance.
5. Resident Parking Permits and Alternative Parking Solutions:
• Explore options for a residential parking permit system to manage parking in densely populated areas.
Identify and develop alternative parking solutions, such as public parking lots, to alleviate congestion on residential streets.
Identify and place "no parking" signs during scheduled times street sweepers and trash trucks times
Fiscal Impact: The proposed measures may require initial funding for repainting red zones, new signage, and public outreach efforts. Long-term costs may include increased enforcement and administrative support.
Conclusion: The enforcement of red zones is crucial for public safety and the efficiency of essential city services. By enhancing visibility, raising public awareness, and strengthening enforcement, Calexico can improve compliance with parking regulations, ensuring street sweepers and trash trucks can operate without hindrance. The recommended solutions will help achieve a balance between maintaining public services and addressing residents' parking needs.
Recommendations:
1. Approve the allocation of funds for repainting and installing signage in red zones.
2. Authorize a public education campaign focused on parking compliance.
3. Direct the Calexico Police Department to develop and implement an enhanced enforcement plan.
4. Consider pilot projects for alternative parking solutions and permit programs.
Please review and provide guidance on moving forward with these proposed strategies.
Respectfully submitted,
Chief Armando Orozco
Calexico Police Department