COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Brett Fulgoni, Director of Public Works
DATE: August 5, 2025
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Proposed Establishment of Passenger Loading Zones on South Thornburg Street
Description:
The City Council will consider approving a Resolution for the establishment of Passenger Loading Zones on South Thornburg Street adjacent to Santa Maria High School to improve school-related pick-up and drop -off operations and enhance safety for drivers entering or exiting the school parking lots.
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution approving the establishment of Passenger Loading Zones on South Thornburg Street, adjacent to Santa Maria High School, pursuant to California Vehicle Code Section 22507.
BACKGROUND:
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) initially contacted the city to express concerns about the efficiency and safety of student drop -off and pick -up operations at Santa Maria High School. In response, City staff conducted site visits during peak traffic periods on May 13 and 14, 2025, to assess conditions. During the morning drop-off around 8:15 AM, staff observed minor vehicle queueing. To enhance traffic circulation and prevent vehicles from blocking access to the school’s parking lot, City staff recommended establishing passenger loading zones along South Thornburg Street.
Subsequently, City and District staff conducted a joint on-site on June 4, 2025, to observe traffic conditions. Based on these observations, Di strict staff concurred with the City’s recommendation to implement designated Passenger Loading Zones along South Thornburg Street, adjacent to the school.
2 DISCUSSION:
The Passenger Loading Zones are proposed to operate during school hours only, minimizing impacts on nearby residents while promoting safe and efficient student drop - off and pick -up. A five-minute time limit will be enforced for passenger loading and unloading.
Pursuant to Section 22507 (a) of the California Vehicle Code, “Local authorities may, by ordinance or resolution, prohibit or restrict the stopping, parking, or standing of vehicles, including, but not limited to, vehicles that are six feet or more in height (including any load thereon) within 100 feet of any intersection, on certain street or highways, or portions thereof, during all or certain hours of the day.”
The Traffic Committee has reviewed the request and recommends establishing the proposed Passenger Loading Zones on South Thornburg Street. The City Council has the authority to restrict parking within designated areas of the City.
Alternative(s)
The alternative to the recommended action would be to not approve the establishment of Passenger Loading Zones on South Thornburg Street.
Fiscal Considerations
The proposed Passenger Loading Zones will require the installation of approximately five signs and approximately 420 linear feet of yellow curb painting. The Public Works Department estimates the total installation cost at around $1,000.
Impact to the Community
These changes are intended to enhance student safety and improve drop -off efficiency near Santa Maria High School. The new Passenger Loading Zones will impact approximately tw enty-one parking spaces between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM; outside of these hours, regular parking will be permitted.
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Resolution
B. Proposed Passenger Loading Zones on South Thornburg Street