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 West Morrison Avenue
Description:
The City Council will consider approving the establishment of a Passenger Loading Zone on West Morrison Avenue, adjacent to Santa Maria High School, to improve school - related pick-up and drop-off operations, as well as enhancing safety for both pedestrians and drivers.
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 a Passenger Loading Zone on West Morrison Avenue, adjacent to Santa Maria High School, pursuant to Section 22507 of the California Vehicle Code.
BACKGROUND:
City staff and Santa Maria Joint Union High School District (SMJUHSD) staff conducted an on -site meeting at Santa Maria High School on June 4, 2025, to observe traffic patterns. Following these observations, both City and SMJUHSD staff recommend the installation of a Passenger Loading Zone on West Morrison Avenue adjacent to Santa Maria High School.
Currently, vehicles stopping along West Morrison Avenue create congestion and sight distance issues for both pedestrians and drivers. Establishing a designated loading zone will provide a safer and more orderly area for student pick-up and drop-off activities.
DISCUSSION:
The Passenger Loading Zone is 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.
2 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 the proposed Passenger Loading Zone on West Morrison Avenue. The City Council has the authority to restrict parking within certain areas of the City.
Alternative(s)
The alternative to the recommended action would be to not approve the establishment of Passenger Loading Zones on West Morrison Avenue.
Fiscal Considerations
The proposed Passenger Loading Zone will require the installation of approximately two signs and approximately 130 linear feet of yellow curb painting. The Public Works Department estimates the total installation cost at around $350.
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 Zone will impact approximately seven 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 Zone on West Morrison Avenue