The Menifee City Council approved a construction contract June 3 for a traffic signal at the intersection of Evans Road and Craig Avenue, with city officials hoping to have the signal operational before the start of the next school year.
Although 10 companies submitted proposals for the project, the council awarded approximately $932,000 in a construction contract to California Professional Engineering Inc.
The intersection, located between Paloma Valley High School (PVHS) and the Gale Webb Action Sports Park, is currently controlled by a four-way stop and experiences heavy traffic from nearby schools, recreation facilities and residential neighborhoods.
“I think this is one of the most important new developments for the city that we have going on,” Mayor Pro Tem Bob Karwin said during the meeting.
City of Menifee Public Works Director Nick Fidler said the area sees significant daily traffic, particularly from families traveling between PVHS and Menifee Valley Middle School.
“This will help facilitate some of the traffic through that intersection,” he said.Â
The project includes installation of a new traffic signal, upgraded ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps, new signage and striping, pavement improvements and dedicated bicycle lanes along Craig Avenue. Additional roadway drainage improvements and on-street parking are also planned.
Karwin noted the project could improve safety for students traveling through the area.
“I know there’s been some students who have been hit on e-bikes. There was quite an uptick of them last school year, so I appreciate the team getting this moved through so quickly,” he said.
City officials plan to begin construction around June 15, shortly after schools let out for summer break. The current schedule calls for construction to wrap up in August.
“Our goal is to try to get it operational before school starts,” Fidler said.
