The Sunset-Congress Intersection
What should guide the decision about the roundabout?
The intersection of Sunset Drive, Congress Avenue, and Cedar Street needs improvement.
It's a complicated five-way intersection used by students traveling to Pacific Grove High School and Forest Grove Elementary, as well as by drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians moving through the Sunset-Congress corridor.
There have been at least 13 collisions at or near the intersection over five years.
The City has studied both a redesigned four-way stop and a roundabout with Cedar Street access relocated.
Engineering and environmental work has continued, and the current GHD engineering contract has grown as the project has moved through additional design and review.
Where we are today
In July 2024, the City Council selected the roundabout as the preferred alternative to move through the next stage of Caltrans review.
There is a legitimate safety case for a roundabout.
The Federal Highway Administration considers roundabouts a proven safety measure because they lower vehicle speeds and reduce conflict points that can lead to serious crashes.
But the relevant question is whether this design is the best solution for this intersection.
Cost is an important factor.
Measure X was a 3/8-cent countywide transportation sales tax approved by Monterey County voters in 2016.
It set aside $5 million for improvements along the Highway 68 corridor within Pacific Grove, with the City approved to use up to $1 million for initial work.
Where I stand
My view is straightforward: the goal is a safer intersection.
My husband and I walked that area frequently, and I agree that where Sunset and Congress come together needs a safety upgrade.
Before Pacific Grove commits to construction, I'd like to know whether the roundabout provides a meaningful safety advantage over a redesigned four-way stop, what the final project cost will be, and how much Pacific Grove would have to contribute.
If the roundabout delivers the stronger safety outcome and outside transportation funding covers most of the cost, I'd support it.
If the four-way stop provides comparable safety for substantially less, I'd choose that.
