Staff Editorial: Application of Vitality City Livability Plan will aid all

In light of the recent approval of the South Bay Master Bike Plan by Manhattan Beach commissioners and its upcoming review by the Manhattan Beach City Council, the Vitality City initiative has proven itself both beneficial and tangible to residents.

Manhattan Beach joined with the Beach Cities Health District and the cities of Hermosa and Redondo Beach to take part in the first-ever “Vitality City.” This initiative, which is part of a nationwide program, aims to promote healthy, active lifestyles.

Vitality City’s Livability Plan has four main goals: building a network of “complete streets” and public spaces that promote active living, providing safe and enjoyable walking or biking conditions, prompting sustainable transportation choices and creating healthier and happier people.

While these goals seem vague on the surface, they have very tangible and effective applications. For instance, the implementation of the South Bay Master Bike Plan would develop an area-wide network of pedestrian paths to make South Bay streets more open to “active transportation,” like walking or cycling.

The bike plan would introduce over 31 new miles of new bike path to Manhattan Beach, greatly improving the accessibility of cyclists to Manhattan Beach roads. This expansion would cost $1.15 million over the course of 20 years, with many grants to the city along the way.

The plan includes an effort to increase active transportation by constructing “complete streets.” These streets, which have shown to increase property values, promote all forms of transportation by including safe, clearly marked crosswalks with long walk signal periods, islands in busy streets and bike lanes that separate sidewalks from automotive traffic.

The Liveability Plan includes redesigning roads by building roundabouts, islands and mini traffic circles. These have been proven to reduce accidents and improve pedestrian safety.

Additionally, the fact that Vitality City is largely volunteer supported will provide a dedicated and cost-effective support base.

The kind of improvements suggested in the Vitality City program have been proven to raise home values and are measures that a progressive and health-conscious city like Manhattan Beach should already have. Vitality City’s Liveability Plan merits serious
consideration.