The city of La Mesa, in collaboration with the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), is set to gather resident feedback on a significant trolley upgrade project. This initiative will take place during the La Mesa Village Farmers Market on March 15, 2024, from 15:00 to 19:00. The aim is to enhance safety at the trolley stop intersection located at La Mesa Boulevard and Spring Street.
The proposed Downtown La Mesa Trolley Prioritization Project presents three potential concepts for track relocation: elevating the trolley tracks above street level, trenching them underground, or lowering the street itself. Each option entails substantial investment and time, reflecting the project’s complexity. Given SANDAG’s projection that trolley service will double by 2035, maintaining the current intersection configuration could lead to increased traffic congestion and safety challenges for motorists, trolley users, and pedestrians.
According to Colin Parent, former La Mesa councilmember and CEO/general counsel of Circulate San Diego, the La Mesa Boulevard and Spring Street intersection has recorded the highest number of serious crashes. Data from Circulate San Diego indicates a consistent trend of incidents in this area. Parent noted that La Mesa has the most trolley stops per capita in the county, emphasizing the accessibility of the trolley service.
“We have an abundance of trolley access,” Parent stated. “Even people who don’t use it very often like that it’s there because they use it sometimes to go to a Padres game or a concert. However, most people in La Mesa are motorists and don’t ride the trolley as a commuter, often feeling inconvenienced by it.”
While Parent expressed skepticism about SANDAG’s current financial capacity to achieve its service goals, he views elevating the trolley tracks as a viable solution. “Having an elevated line is probably more feasible and also almost certainly less expensive,” he explained. Yet, he acknowledged that such changes could alter the aesthetic of the city, a consideration that must be weighed against safety improvements.
La Mesa Vice Mayor Lauren Cazares supports the project, recognizing its potential to enhance trolley safety features and lighting, which could improve perceptions of safety among riders. “While this may not directly address cleanliness issues, it provides the opportunity to enhance safety features that make people feel more secure using the trolley,” Cazares noted.
The population of La Mesa has been steadily increasing, and downtown events like Oktoberfest and Holiday in the Village draw larger crowds each year. Cazares remarked on the importance of accessibility, stating, “Not only are we having more people move into La Mesa, but downtown La Mesa has really become a regional destination. We want to ensure that it remains accessible while preserving our community’s character.”
Given the potential impacts of the proposed options on residents, businesses, and visitors, Cazares highlighted the necessity of community feedback. “As construction moves forward, it is crucial that the design reflects the needs of our community, small businesses, and trolley riders, rather than being solely determined by the city council or SANDAG Board of Directors,” she stressed.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming pop-up event and share their thoughts via email. Feedback can be submitted to [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]. The engagement of the community is vital for shaping the future of the trolley service in La Mesa, ensuring it meets the needs of all stakeholders involved.