HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-04-16; Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project - SANDAG Active Transportation Grant Program Update (District 1); Gomez, PazTo the memb ers of the:
CITY COUNCIL
Date4fo.I2h CA vice✓
CM ~ VD CM (3) V
April 16, 2026
Council Memorandum
To: Honorable Mayor Blackburn and Members of the City Council
From: Paz Gomez, Deputy City Manager, Public Works
Via: Sheila Cobian, Assistant City Manager ~
{city of
Carlsbad
Memo ID# 2026019
Re: Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project -
SAN DAG Active Transportation Grant Program Update (District 1)
This memorandum provides an update to a previous Council Memorandum dated
October 16, 2025, (Attachment A), and a City Council Staff Report considered at the regular
meeting on December 2, 2025, (Attachment B}, on the status of the San Diego Association of
Governments (SANDAG), Active Transportation Grant Program (ATGP} associated with the
Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project.
Background
On May 9, 2016, the city secured $1,054,000 in SAN DAG reimbursement-based grant funds for
the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project, Capital
Improvement Program (CIP} Project No. 6058 (project). The project aims to create a safe and
accessible road that meets the needs of drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians and other road users,
and supports the city's General Plan Mobility Element and Climate Action Plan . Additional
grant-related details are provided in Attachment A.
On April 29, 2025, the City Council approved a smaller-scale project focused on pedestrian
improvements and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance, within
Resolution No. 2025-101.
On May 20, 2025, staff submitted an amendment request to SAN DAG seeking a grant extension
and authorization to apply the remaining $452,643 balance to the construction phase only.
On October 31, 2025, the SANDAG Board of Directors approved a 42-month grant extension,
establishing a new grant termination date of November 8, 2028. The approved amendment
included the condition that if construction is not completed by that date, the city must return
any reimbursed grant funds up to the remaining balance of $452,643.
On December 2, 2025, the City Council approved the conditions of the SAN DAG Active
Transportation Grant Amendment and authorized staff to proceed with the amended grant
agreement, within Resolution No. 2025-254.
Public Works Branch
Transportation Department
1635 Faraday Avenue I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 442-339-2730 t
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd/Tamarack Ave Intersection -SAN DAG Grant Update (District 1)
April 16, 2026
Page 2
Discussion
Following the City Council's approval of the grant conditions, staff coordinated with SAN DAG to
formalize the grant amendment extending the term to November 8, 2028. The project schedule
was also amended to reflect the anticipated start of construction in fall 2027 to minimize
impacts to residents and visitors and avoid the summer months.
On March 24, 2026, the city and SANDAG executed the Active Transportation Grant
Amendment as Agreement Amendment No. 4.
Staff continue to work with the consultant that is designing the project so that no additional
delays occur and that final design will be completed by late summer.
Next Steps
Final design is targeted to be completed by late summer 2026. Staff will then submit final plans
to the Planning Division to coordinate California Environmental Quality (CEQA) review and to
the California Coastal Commission to apply for a coastal development permit exemption.
If both exemptions are confirmed, staff plan to solicit bids for the project in late 2026 and
return to the City Council in early 2027 for award of a construction contract. If either exemption
is not confirmed, staff will work with the applicable agencies/divisions to complete required
environmental review, reporting and mitigation, with contract award anticipated in fall 2027.
Construction is planned to start in fall 2027 and to be completed before the grant expires in
November 2028.
Attachments: A. Council Memorandum dated October 16, 2025
B. City Council Staff Report dated December 2, 2025
cc: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
Jeff Murphy, Deputy City Manager, Community Services
Laura Rocha, Deputy City Manager, Administrative Services
Christie Calderwood, Police Chief
Michael Calderwood, Fire Chief
Tim Lyons, Assistant City Attorney
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Zach Korach, Finance Director
Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Mike Strong, Community Development Director
Amy Ventetuolo, Community & Engagement Director
Eric Lardy, Assistant Director of Community Development
Mariel Cairns, Acting Engineering Manager
To the members of the:
CITY COUNCIL
Dat1 ,\~lllpc~ CC~/
CM _ ACM ~ DCM (3) ~
October 16, 2025
Council Memorandum
To:
From:
Honorable Mayor Blackburn and Members of the City Council
Paz Gomez, Deputy City Manager, Public Works
Via:
Attachment A
{city of
Carlsbad
Memo ID# 2025061
Re:
Sheila Cobian, Assistant City Manager /&;)
Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Av~ntersection Improvements Project -
SAN DAG Active Transportation Grant Program Update (District 1)
This memorandum provides an update to a previous Council Memorandum dated
September 18, 2025, (Attachment A), on the status of the San Diego Association of Governments
(SAN DAG), Active Transportation Grant Program (ATGP) associated with the Carlsbad Boulevard and
Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project, Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Project No. 6058.
Background
On May 9, 2016, the city secured $1,054,000 in SAN DAG reimbursement-based grant funds for
the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project. The project
aims to create a safe and accessible road that meets the needs of drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians,
and other road users, and supports the city's General Plan Mobility Element and Climate Action
Plan. The grant was initially set to expire in May 2025, but the city requested and received an
extension to May 2026. Additional grant-related details are provided in Attachment A.
On April 29, 2025, staff presented options to the City Council, including continuing the project as
planned or modifying the project to include a signalized intersection improvement instead of a
roundabout, or a smaller-scale intersection improvements project. The City Council approved the
smaller-scale project that focused on pedestrian improvements and Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) compliance, Resolution No. 2025-101. Since then, staff have proceeded to work with
consultant Wood Rodgers, Inc., on designing the smaller-scale project.
Discussion
Key recent SAN DAG milestones related to the ATGP funds for the Carlsbad Boulevard and
Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project are as follows:
1. May 20, 2025 -Staff submitted a letter to SAN DAG staff requesting a grant amendment
to revise the project scope to the smaller-scale project and to extend the grant term by
36 months (the previous grant expiration date was May 8, 2025). Under this amendment,
Public Works Branch
Transportation Department
1635 Faraday Avenue I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 442-339-2730 t
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd/Tamarack Ave Intersection -SAN DAG Grant Update (District 1)
October 16, 2025
Page 2
the remaining grant balance would fund construction only, while the city would fund
design, environmental review and permitting.
2. July 9, 2025 -Staff presented the amendment request to the SAN DAG Independent
Taxpayers Oversight Committee (ITOC). The ITOC recommended that the SAN DAG
Transportation Committee approve the revised grant amendment with the stipulation
that all expended grant funds must be returned if the project is not completed by the new
grant termination date.
3. September 5, 2025 -Staff presented the amendment request to the SAN DAG
Transportation Committee. The Transportation Committee recommended that the
SAN DAG Board of Directors approve a three-year time extension, scope of work and
budget amendment, with the remainder of the grant funds to be used only for
construction, which would need to be expended by the end of the contract date, and that
all grant funds be returned if the project is not completed within three years, up to the
total grant amount of $1,054,000.
4. September 26, 2025 -The amendment request was placed as a consent item on the
September 26, 2025, SAN DAG Board of Directors meeting agenda but the item was pulled
and rescheduled for the October 31, 2025, Board meeting.
Next Steps
SAN DAG has scheduled this item for its October 31, 2025, Board meeting to consider the city's
amendment request. Depending on the SAN DAG Board's decision, staff will work with SAN DAG
staff to obtain the amended grant agreement and submit it to the City Council for consideration
at a future meeting, if needed.
If the SAN DAG Board approves the city's request as is, the grant will be extended until
May 8, 2028. This grant extension would not need to be returned to the City Council for
consideration since the City Council approved the project scope during the meeting on
April 29, 2025, and previously authorized the Public Works Director (who is now the Deputy City
Manager, Public Works} to execute the grant agreement with Resolution No. 2016-081.
If the SAN DAG Board approves the SAN DAG Transportation Committee's recommendation,
which includes completing construction and expending all grant funds prior to May 8, 2028, or
the city would have to return all expended funds up to $1,054,000, city staff would present the
SAN DAG Board's decision to the City Council for consideration.
Currently, over $601,357 of the $1,054,000 grant has been expended. Though city staff are
confident that the construction project would be completed prior to May 8, 2028, there is still a
risk that unforeseen conditions could delay the project, which could mean that the city would
have to return grant funds expended at that time in an amount from $601,357 to $1,054,000.
Staff are continuing to work with consultant Wood Rodgers, Inc., to prepare 30% complete plans
in October. Once prepared and reviewed, staff will submit the conceptual plans to the Planning
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd/Tamarack Ave Intersection -SAN DAG Grant Update (District 1)
October 16, 2025
Page 3
Division and the California Coastal Commission staff to determine the required environmental
documents or permits.
Attachment: A. Council Memorandum dated September 18, 2025
cc: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
Gary Barberio, Deputy City Manager, Community Services
Laura Rocha, Deputy City Manager, Administrative Services
Christie Calderwood, Police Chief
Michael Calderwood, Fire Chief
Tim Lyons, Assistant City Attorney
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Zach Korach, Finance Director
Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Jeff Murphy, Community Development Director
Amy Ventetuolo, Community & Engagement Director
Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development
Eric Lardy, City Planner
Hossein Ajideh, Engineering Manager
Nathan Schmidt, Transportation Planning and Mobility Manager
ATTACHMENT A
Council Memorandum
September 18, 2025
To: Honorable Mayor Blackburn and Members of the City Council
From: Paz Gomez, Deputy City Manager, Public Works
{city of
Carlsbad
Memo ID#2025053
Via: Sheila Cobian, Assistant City Manager ~
Re: Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project -
SAN DAG Active Transportation Grant Program Update (District 1}
This memorandum provides an update to a previous Council Memorandum dated April 10, 2025,
(Attachment A), on the status of the San Diego Association of Governments (SAN DAG), Active
Transportation Grant Program associated with the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue
Intersection Improvements Project, Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Project No. 6058.
Background
On May 9, 2016, the city secured $1,054,000 in SAN DAG grant funds for the Carlsbad Boulevard
and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project. The project aims to create a safe and
accessible road that meets the needs of drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other road users, and
supports the city's General Plan Mobility Element and Climate Action Plan.
To date, the city has expended approximately $601,000 of the grant funds for public outreach,
feasibility and engineering studies, leaving a remaining balance of approximately $453,000. The
grant expiration date was extended twice until the latest grant expiration date of May 81 2025.
On April 29, 2025, staff provided the City Council options for consideration that included
continuing the project as planned or modifying the project to include a signalized intersection
improvement instead of a roundabout or a smaller scale intersection improvements project. The
City Council selected a smaller-scale project that focused on Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) compliance, Resolution No. 2025-101.
On May 20, 2025, staff sent a letter to SAN DAG staff requesting an amendment to the grant
agreement for a change in scope to the smaller-scale project and a 36-month extension. The
remaining balance of the grant would be used for the construction phase only. The other phases
of a new design, environmental clearance, right-of-way coordination and permits would be
funded by the city.
Public Works Branch
Transportation Department
1635 Faraday Avenue I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 442-339-2730 t
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd/Tamarack Ave Intersection -SANDAG Grant Update (District 1)
September 18, 2025
Page 2
Discussion
On July 9, 2025, staff presented the request to the SAN DAG Independent Taxpayers Oversight
Committee (ITOC). ITOC recommended that the SAN DAG Board approve the revised grant
amendment request from the city.
On July 24, 2025, staff met with California Coastal Commission staff who indicated that the
revised scope could result In an exemption to a coastal development permit. Staff plan to
present the 15%-20% conceptual design for California Coastal Commission staff's review to
confirm the exemption.
On September 5, 2025, staff presented to the SAN DAG Transportation Committee and received
support for the amendment request with a recommendation added by the Transportation
Committee that if construction is not completed within the requested 3-year time extension, the
city would return the entire grant funding that had been expended at that time up to a maximum
total of $1,054,000. The city would have to agree to this condition if this is added to the final
grant extension.
Next Steps
This request is scheduled to be placed as a consent item on the SAN DAG Board meeting on
September 26, 2025.
Attachment: A. Council Memorandum dated April 10, 2025
cc: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
Gary Barberio, Deputy City Manager, Community Services
Laura Rocha, Deputy City Manager, Administrative Services
Christie Calderwood, Police Chief
Michael Calderwood, Fire Chief
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Zach Korach, Finance Director
Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Jeff Murphy, Community Development Director
Amy Ventetuolo, Community & Engagement Director
Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development
Eric Lardy, City Planner
Hossein Ajideh, Engineering Manager
Nathan Schmidt, Transportation Planning and Mobility Manager
Council Memorandum
April 10, 2025
To: Honorable Mayor Blackburn and Members of the City Council
From: Paz Gomez, Deputy City Manager, Public Works
Via: Sheila Cobian, Assistant City Manager ~~
{city of
Carlsbad
Memo 10#2025029
Re: Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project -
SAN DAG Active Transportation Grant Program Update (District 1)
This memorandum provides an update to a previous Council Memorandum dated January 30, 2025,
(Attachment A), on the status of the San Diego Association of Governments (SAN DAG), Active
Transportation Grant Program associated with the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue
Intersection Improvements Project, Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Project No. 6058.
Background
On May 9, 2016, the city secured $1,054,000 in SAN DAG grant funds for the Carlsbad Boulevard
and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project. The project aims to create a safe and
accessible road that meets the needs of drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other road users, and
supports the city's General Plan Mobility Element and Climate Action Plan.
To date, the city has expended approximately $600,000 of the grant funds for public outreach,
feasibility and engineering studies, leaving a remaining balance of approximately $454,000. The
grant expiration date has been extended twice with a current expiration date of May 8, 2025.
On July 18, 2023, the City Council approved the conceptual design of the project, which includes
a roundabout at the intersection, pedestrian safety improvements and widening the sidewalk on
the bridge over the Agua Hedionda Lagoon inlet. The City Council authorized staff to proceed
with the next steps of the project, which includes final design and environmental permitting, and
directed staff to return with information on five months of traffic performance on another
coastal roundabout project at the intersection of Carlsbad Boulevard and Cannon Road before
seeking the City Council's approval for construction. The roundabout at Carlsbad Boulevard and
Cannon Road is expected to be completed in 2028.
On November 12, 2024, the City Council authorized staff to request a grant scope change and a
two-year time extension. Attachment A provides additional background information on the
project funding including the city's request to SAN DAG to amend the grant agreement for a
Public Works Branch
Transportation Department
1635 Faraday Avenue I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 442-339-2730 t
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd/Tamarack Ave Intersection -SANDAG Grant Update (District 1)
April 10, 2025
Page 2
scope change and a two-year time extension. The scope change would allow the remaining grant
funding to be used for only the engineering design and environmental review and permitting
phases, not construction.
Discussion
Since the last status update to the City Council, the following SAN DAG meetings were held to
discuss the city's request for a change in scope to include only engineering design and
environmental review and permitting phases and exclude the construction phase. The city also
requested a two-year time extension. •
• On February 12, 2025, the SAN DAG Independent Taxpayer Oversight Committee (ITOC)
recommended that the SAN DAG Board of Directors reject the city's request. ITOC
members expressed concern that the city's request was unrealistic due to too many
uncertainties, such as the lack of a California Coastal Commission permit and
environmental clearance for the project, and that It was unlikely that the project could be
completed In the timeframe the city has requested.
• On March 21, 2025, the SAN DAG Transportation Committee recommended that the
SAN DAG Board of Directors reject the city's request. Some committee members
expressed support for the project and noted It has region-wide benefits; however, they
had concerns about the progress to date, the absence of funding to construct the project,
and the Carlsbad City Council's decision to wait to approve the final design until another
• roundabout project is completed and evaluated, which leaves the project's design and
construction tlmeline uncertain.
• On March 28, 2025, the SAN DAG Board of Directors item was pulled from the meeting
agenda, to be scheduled at a later date.
Based on the recommendations from the SANDAG ITOC and the SAN DAG Transportation
Committee, the city risks losing the funds by May 81 2025. Although the SAN DAG Board of
Directors postponed discussion of the city's request at its March 28, 2025, meeting, the city has
the opportunity to receive a status update and reconsider the original request for a change of
scope and time extension.
To provide a status update and reconsideration of the requested grant revision, the City Manager
is tentatively scheduling an item to discuss the project on the April 29, 2025, City Council meeting
agenda to provide the City Council options for consideration that include continuing the project
as planned or modifying the project to include a signalized intersection Improvement instead of a
roundabout or a smaller scale intersection improvetnents project.
Next Steps
Depending on the City Council's direction at its April 29, 2025, meeting, city staff will work with
SAN DAG staff to submit a revised request to amend the grant agreement. Staff will also continue
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd/Tamarack Ave Intersection -SAN DAG Grant Update (District 1)
April 10, 2025
Page 3
working on environmental clearance and California· Coastal Commission permits based on the
design option approved by the City Council.
Attachment: A. Council Memorandum dated January 30, 2025
cc: Geoff Patnoe1 City Manager
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
Gary Barberio, Deputy City Manager, Community Services
Laura Rocha, Deputy City Manager, Administrative Services
Christle Calderwood, Police Chief
Michael Calderwood, Fire Chief
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Zach l(orach, Finance Director
Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Jeff Murphy, Community Development Director
Sarah Lemons, Interim Community & Engagement Director
Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development
Eric Lardy, City Planner
Hossein Ajideh, Engineering Manager
Nathan Schmidt, Transportation Planning and Mobility Manager
To the members of the:
CITY COUNCIL /
Date Lf3ri~cAL cc .Y.
cML3Zrvi:LocM (B)L
January 30, 2025
ATTACHMENT A
Council Memorandum
To:
From:
Honorable Mayor Blackburn and Members of the City Council
Paz Gomez, Deputy City Manager, Public Works
Via:
{city of
Carlsbad
• Memo ID# 2025012
Re:
Sheila Cobian, Assistant City Manager~U
Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project• Grant
Update (District 1)
This memorandum provides an update to a previous Council Memorandum dated •
October 3, 2024, on the status of the grant associated with the Carlsbad Boulevard and
Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project, Capital Improvement Program, or CIP,
Project No. 6058,
Background
Attachment A, which is the Council Memorandum dated October 31 2024, provides background
information on the project, which will provide Improvements at the Carlsbad Boulevard and
Tamarack Avenue Intersection,
The last project staff report was provided to the City Council on November 12, 2024, At that
meeting, the City Council approved the submittal of an amendment request for a scope change
Including a two-year time extension to the San Diego Association of Governments, or SAN DAG,
Active Transportation Grant for the project. The scope change would allow funding to be used for
the design and environmental review phases. Attachment B provides the meeting minutes for
the November 12, 2024, City Council meeting, which includes a summary of the discussion of the
project.
Additional Information on the project Is provided in the following webpage address:
https://www.carisbadca.gov/departments/public-works/projects/our-coastllne/tamarack-area-
coastal-proiect
Discussion
The project's funding Includes a grant that Is administered by SAN DAG; however, the grant ls set
to expire In May 2025. Staff have been coordinating with SAN DAG on extending the grant term
given the challenges of delivering a project of this scope involving multi pie state agencies, though
SAN DAG staff expressed a desire to close it out as soon as possible instead of approving
additional extensions.
Public Works Branch
Transportation Department
1635 Faraday Avenue I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 442-339-2730 t
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd and Tamarack Ave Intersection Improvements Project (District 1)
January 30, 2025
Page 2
Following the November 121 2024, City Council meeting, staff submitted a request to SAN DAG to
(1) extend the grant until May 2027, and (2) remove the construction phase from the grant
funding and allow the funding to be used for the design and environmental review phases,
Next Steps
The proposed request will be presented to SANDAG's Independent Taxpayer Oversight
Committee, or ITOC1 on February 12, 2025. The request will then be presented to SANDAG's
Transportation Committee on March 21, 20251 and to the SANDAG1s Board of Directors on
March 28, 2025.
Staff will continue to coordinate with SAN DAG representatives on the submitted request for an
amendment to the grant agreement and provide updates to the City Council as appropriate.
Attachments: A. Council Memorandum dated October 31 2024
B. Meeting Minutes for the November 12, 2024, City Council meeting
cc: Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
Gary Barberio, Deputy City Manager, Community Services
Laura Rocha, Deputy City Manager, Administrative Services
Christle Calderwood, Police Chief
Michael Calderwood, Fire Chief
Gina Herrera, Assistant City Attorney
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Zach Korach, Finance Director
Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Jeff Murphy, Community Development Director
Kristina Ray, Community & Engagement Director
Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development
Hosse In Ajldeh, Engineering Manager
Eric Lardy, City Planner
Nathan Schmidt, Transportation Planning and Mobility Manager
Eric Zielke, Senior Engineer
To the members of the:
CITY COUNCIL
Date lbl3l2~ CA v' ccvC /
CM J.L'."~ LocM (3)~
October 3, 2024
ATTACHMENT A
Council Memorandum
To:
From:
Honorable Mayor Blackburn and Members of the City Council
Paz Gomez, Deputy City Manager, Publ~orks
Via: Geoff Patnoe, Assistant City Manager ~
(city of
Carlsbad
Memo ID# 2024073
Re: Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project Grant
Update (District 1}
This memorandum provides an update on the status of the grant associated with the Carlsbad
Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project, Capital Improvement
Program, or CIP, Project No. 6058,
Background
The last project staff report to the City Council was provided on July 18, 2023. Attachment A
provides the City Council Meeting Minutes for the July 18, 2023, meeting, which Includes a
summary of the discussion of the project. Attachment B1 which is a Council Memorandum dated
March 171 2022, provides background information on the project.
The City of Carlsbad is committed to creating roads that are safe and accessible, while balancing
the needs of drivers, bicyclists, walkers and other road users. This Is especially Important around
our busy coastline.
This project is one of several that reflects state law, our Climate Action Plan and the
city's General Plan Mobility Element. a City Council policy approved in 2015 to transform city
roads into "complete streets." Complete streets are safe and accessible to drivers, bicyclists,
walkers and other road users. When most of the city's streets were designed, the focus was
mostly on managing car traffic.
The project at Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue will:
• Reduce speeding
• Pri'oritize safety for drivers, bikers and walkers
• Create more parking
• Widen sidewalks, including across the bridge
• Move the bus stop out of the middle of the intersection so It's easier and safer to use,
especially for people with disabilities
• Ease traffic flow
The project status at a glance:
Public Works Branch
Transportation Department
1635 Faraday Avenue I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 442-339-2730 t
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd and Tamarack Ave Intersection Improvements Update {District 1)
October 3, 2024
Page 2
• Several years ago, the city worked with project neighbors and the community to get their
Input on potential designs.
• This project was started before the city's local traffic emergency, but Its goals support the
Safer Streets Together Initiative.
• The City Council asked to see dat~ on how the Cannon Road roundabout performs before
authorizing construction of a roundabout at Tamarack Avenue.
• City staff will gather data for three months after the Cannon Road project is completed
and return to the City Council for additional discussion and direction on how to proceed
with Tamarack Avenue.
Additional background ls provided at the following project webpage address:
https://www .ca rlsbadca .gov I depa rtm ents/p u b lic-wo rks/p ro jects/ o u r-coastll ne/tamarack-area-
coastal-p roject
Discussion
The project's funding includes a grant that is administered by the San Diego Association of
Governments (SAN DAG). City staff have been coordinating with SAN DAG staff on continuing to
utlllze the grant, given the challenges of delivering a project of this scope Involving multiple
agencies,
On September 24, 2024, city staff met with SANDAG staff to review the project status and
options regarding the subject grant. A summary of the meeting Includes:
• The original grant was approved by SAN DAG and the city in May 2016 and had two grant
extensions with a current target deadline of May 2025,
• The original grant was approved with a total construction cost of $1,804,000, requiring a
41.57% local match and a 58.43% contribution from SAN DAG, amounting to $1,054,000.
To date, the city has billed and received $334,285.12 from SAN DAG, with $15,508.53 held
as a 10% retention. This retention amount will be released to the city upon project
completion.
• This Is the only grant remaining. In SANDAG's Active Transportation Program, so SAN DAG
staff would like to close it out as soon as possible,
• SANDAG and city staff reviewed the pros and cons of three options for continuing to
utilize the grant Including: 1) early withdrawal, 2) scope change and 3) time extension,
• The tentative recommendation from SAN DAG and city staff is to request a scope change
that would remove the construction phase from the grant's scope of work.
• This adjustment would enable SAN DAG to close out the grant more quickly.
• SAN DAG staff suggested finalizing the recommended approach by the end of October
2024.
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd and Tamarack Ave Intersection Improvements Update (District 1)
October 3, 2024
Page 3
Next Steps
City staff will continue to coordinate with SAN DAG staff and are tentatively plannlng to present
the three options to the City Council for consideration on October 29, 2024,
Attachments: A. City Council Meeting Minutes for July 18, 2023
B. Council Memorandum dated March 17, 2022
cc: Scott Chadwick, City Manager
Cindie McMahon, City Attorney
Gary Barberio, Deputy City Manager, Community Services
Laura Rocha, Deputy City Manager, Administrative Services
Michael Calderwood, Fire Chief
Christle Calderwood, Police Chief
Gina Herrera, Assistant City Attorney
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
Jason Haber, Intergovernmental Affairs Director
Zach l<orach, Finance Director
Kyle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Jeff Murphy, Community Development Director
Kristina Ray, Communication & Engagement Director
Mike Strong, Assistant Director of Community Development
Erle Lardy, City Planner
Hossein Ajideh, Engineering Manager
Nathan Schmidt, Transportation Planning and Mobility Manager
Eric Zielke, Senior Engineer
CITY COUNCIL
Minutes
July 18, 2023, 5 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER: 5 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Burkholder, Luna.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CONCURRENT MEETINGS: None.
Attachment A
Council Chamber
1200 Carlsbad VIiiage Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: City Manager Scott Chadwick led the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: None.
PRESENTATIONS:
Recognition of Donation from George Krell
Library & Cultural Arts Director Suzanne Smithson said a few words about the l<rell's and their
donation.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Mike Borrello expressed his concern with freedom of speech regulations and censorship.
Walt Meier expressed safety concerns with vegetation In local parks.
Nickl Rudden expressed her appreciation for events held at the city llbraries.
Katrina Wa/de/lch expressed her appreciation for events held at the city libraries.
PUBLIC REPORT OF ANY ACTION TAICEN IN CLOSED SESSION: None.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to approve Consent
Calendar Item Nos. 1 through 7. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
1. REPORT ON CITY INVESTMENTS AS OF MAY 31, 2023 -Accept and file Report on City
Investments as of May 31, 2023. (Staff contact: Craig Lindholm and Laura Rocha,
Administrative Services Department)
2, APPROVAL OF THE PURCHASE OF THE TABLEAU ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION RENEWAL FROM
SOLUTION SIMPLIFIED, INC. -Adoption of Resolution No, 2023-198 authorizing the City
Manager or a deslgnee to purchase the Tableau software subscription renewal from Solutions
Simplified, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $215,475 for a one-year term ending July 31,
2024. (Staff contact: Maria Callander and David Graham, Administrative Services
Department)
July 18, 2023 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 2
3. APPROVAL OF THE PURCHASE OF THE OKTA SOFTWARE SUBSCRIPTION RENEWAL FROM
CDW-G, LLC -Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-199 authorizing the City Manager or a
designee to purchase the Okta software subscription renewal from CDW-G, LLC, in an amount
not to exceed $406,944 for a three-year term ending Aug, 24, 2026. (Staff contact: Maria
Callander, Administrative Services Department)
4. REQUESTTO APPROVE THE REVISED AUTOMATED REGIONALJUSTICE INFORMATION SYSTEM
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT -Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-200 approving the
Automated Regional Justice Information System Joint powers agreement and authorizing the
City Manager to make the annual payments as required, including any annual cost
adjustments. (Staff contact: Maria Callander, Administrative Services Department and
Christle Calderwood, Police Department)
5, AGREEMENT FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT TO PARTICIPATE IN THE REGIONAL
REALIGNMENT RESPONSE GROUP PROGRAM AND ITS PROBATION COMPLIANCE CHECKS -
Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-201 approving the 2018 agreement for the Regional
Realignment Response Program and authorizing the City Manager to enter into future similar
agreements and to accept and appropriate reimbursement funds received from the County
of San Diego for the Regional Realignment Response Group Program. (Staff contact: Amanda
Baker and Christle Calderwood, Police Department)
6, USE OF CITY FACILITIES FOR 2024 PRIMARY AND GENERAL ELECTION VOTE CENTER
LOCATIONS -Adoption of Resolution No, 2023-202 authorizing the use of the Calavera Hills
Community Center Activity Room, Alga Norte Community Park Meeting Room 301 (General
Election only), Pine Avenue Community Center Activity Room and Stagecoach Community
Center Activity Room as vote center locations and waiving any associated fees for their use
In the 2024 Primary and General Elections. (Staff contact: Faviola Medina, City Clerk
Department)
7, ACCEPTING A $100,000 DONATION FROM GEORGE KRELL TO THE CITY OF CARLSBAD LIBRARY
& CULTURAL ARTS DEPARTMENT -Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-203 accepting a
$100,000 donation from George l<rell to the City of Carlsbad Library & Cultural Arts
Department and appropriating $50,000 of the donation for purchase of new seating and
large-type books, (Staff contact: Suzanne Smithson, Community Services Department)
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION: None.
ORDINANCES FOR ADOPTION: None,
PUBLIC HEARING:
8, UPDATING CARLSBAD MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 7.08 TO REFLECT CITY'S CONTRACT WITH
THE SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY AND ADOPTING USER FEES RELATED TO ANIMAL CONTROL
Jllly 18, 2023 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 3
AND REGULATION -1) Introduce Ordinance No, CS-450 amending Carlsbad Municipal Code
Chapter 7,08 Rabies, Animal Control and Regulation; and
2) Adoption of Resolution No, 2023-204 adopting updated user fees for the recovery of city
costs related to animal control and regulation services, (Staff contact: Reid Shipley and
Amanda Baker, Police Department)
City Manager's Recommendation: Take public Input, close the public hearing, Introduce the
ordinance and adopt the resolution.
Police Captain Reid Shipley and Deputy City Attorney Marissa l(aweckl presented the report
and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office of the City Clerk),
Mayor Blackburn opened the duly noticed public hearing at 5:21 p.m,
Hearing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Blackburn closed the duly noticed public hearing at
5:21 p.m.
In response to an Inquiry from Mayor Blackburn, Police Captain Shipley explained that the
employees of the human society can use discretion to be able to provide assistance or waive
fees as needed 011 a case-by-case basis.
City Attorney Cindie McMahon titled the ordinance.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to Introduce
Ordinance No. CS-450. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0,
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to adopt
Resolution No. 2023-204. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0,
DEPARTMENTAL AND CITY MANAGER REPORTS:
9, CARLSBAD TOMORROW GROWTH MANAGEMENT CITIZENS COMMITTEE REPORT-Adoption
of Resolution No. 2023-205 accepting the Carlsbad Tomorrow: Growth Management Citizens
Committee's Report and directing staff to return to the City Council with an Implementation
program and options to update the Growth Management Program consistent wlth the
committee's recommendations three months after the completion of the Housing Element
Rezoning Program. (Staff contact: Eric Lardy, Community Services Department)
City Manager's Recommendation: Adopt the resolution.
City Planner Eric Lardy, Community Development Director Jeff Murphy and Carlsbad
Tomorrow: Growth Management Citizens Committee Chair Eric Larson presented the report
and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file In the Office of the City Clerk).
July 18, 2023 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 4
Diane Nygard urged the City Council to consider directing staff to come back with a plan to
conduct proximity study for city parks.
Steve Linke expressed his appreciation for serving on the committee.
Dave Ordas expressed his desire for a new city park as a safe space for children.
Lance Shulte expressed his desire for a new city par!<.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Acosta, City Planner Lardy explained that the
standard for the Growth Management Plan Is 15% open space that is not biological, and It
was adopted In 1986 before the ballot initiative. He added that lt was estimated that at the
build out of the plan, the city would fall between 35% to 40% open space,
In response to an inquiry from Council Member Acosta, Community Development DJrector
Murphy explained that at the July 13, 2021, City Council meeting there was a discussion on
whether to acquire open space or park space In the southwest quadrant of the city. He added
that realignment of Carlsbad Boulevard was also discussed and would allow for up to SO acres
of land that could be used to recreational or open space purposes.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Acosta, City Planner Lardy explained that the
Housing Element Rezone Prograrn is required to be adopted by April 2024.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Acosta, Parks & Recreation Director l<yle
Lancaster explained that the Parks Master Plan ls scheduled to go to the City Council in
September 2023 and park equity will be discussed In that report.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Acosta, Environmental Sustainability Director
Jaime Wood explained that a sustainability cornmlsslon has not been considered or pursued
in the city but could be if directed by the City Council to do so.
In response to an Inquiry from Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, Parks & Recreation Director
Lancaster explained that If the City Council directed staff to conduct a study on a distance-
based standard a consultant could be hired to complete the study, however it would likely
not take place until early 2024. He added that this would allow for the City Council to receive
updates on other Items, such as the park equity maps, that are scheduled to be presented
before then,
In response to an inquiry from Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, City Attorney McMahon confirmed
that any ballot Initiative measures can only be undone by ballot measures, unless determined
to be void or voidable.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Luna, Parks & Recreation Director Lancaster
explained that there Is a staff committee within the Parks & Recreation Department that
meets quarterly to review and discuss natural open space opportunities.
July 18, 2023 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 5
In response to an inquiry from Councll Member Burkholder, City Planner Lardy explained that
generally, the four quadrants in the city are defined by El Camino Real between the east and
the west and Palomar Airport Road between the north and the south.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Transportation Director Tom
Frank shared an overview on the South Carlsbad Boulevard Climate Adaptation Study and an
established Capital Improvement Project In south Carlsbad that Is not currently funded. He
added that with the Safter Streets Together Plan, a third project is currently funded to
consider an arterial realignment.
In response to an Inquiry from Mayor Blackburn, City Manager Scott Chadwick explained that
the city currently has approximately 17 boards and commissions.
In response to an inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Deputy City Manager Public
Works Paz Gomez explained that energy studies are spread out throughout various city
departments,
Minute Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, directing
staff to return to the City Council with a discussion on a distance-based park st,:mdard. Mayor
Pro Tern Bhat-Patel rescinded her motion.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to adopt
Resolution No. 2023-205. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
In response to an inqul ry from City Manager Chadwick, Parks & Recreation Director Lancaster
explained that staff could return to the City Council 60 days after the adoption of the Parks
Master Plan with more information on the distance-based park standard,
In response to an Inquiry from Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, Parks & Recreation Director
Lancaster explained that the Parks Master Plan currently scheduled for September 2023 will
provide more Information Into park equity and if the City Council would like more information
Into distance-based park standard, the City Council could direct staff at that time,
Minute Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta to return
to the City Council with a discussion on reevaluating Proposition H. Motion carried
unanimously, 5/0.
Minute Motion by Council Member Acosta directing staff to bring back an agenda item
regarding the potential formation of an energy advisory committee or a sustainability
committee with renewal energy as part of their scope and to consider the recommendations
as part of the current Item, Motion failed due to lack of a second.
Mayor Blackburn declared a recess at 6:55 p.m.
July 18, 2023 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 6
Mayor Blackburn reconvened the meeting ctt 7:05 p.m.
10, SELECTING INTERSECTION TRAFFIC CONTROL FOR THE· CARLSBAD BOULEVARD AND
TAMARACK AVENUE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT -1) Adoption of Resolution
No. 2_023-206 approving a roundabout at the intersection of Carlsbad Boulevard and
Tamarack Avenue as the preferred Intersection traffic control option and authorizing staff to
move forward with the environmental review, permitting and final engineering design of the
Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project; or
2) Adoption of a resolution approving a traffic signal at the Intersection of Carlsbad Boulevard
and Tamarack Avenue as the preferred intersection traffic control option and authorizing
staff to move forward with the environmental review, permitting and final engineering design
of the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project. (Staff
contact: Lauren Ferrell and Tom Frank, Public Works Department)
City Manager's Recommendation: Adopt the resolution that identifies the preferred
Intersection traffic control method,
Transportation Director and City Engineer Frank and Associate Engineer Lauren Ferrell
presented the report and reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file in the Office of the City
Clerk).
Jerry Tucker expressed his support for cm intersection.
Don Thorstenson expressed his support for a roundabout.
Mctrk Embree expressed his support for a roundabout.
Jon James expressed his support for an intersect/on.
Pat Ward expressed her support for a roundabout.
Michael Hedrick expressed his support for a roundabout.
Chuck Pateros expressed his support for a roundctbout.
Loren Chaffin expressed his support for an intersection.
WIiiiam Fowler expressed his support for a roundabout.
Christina McGo/drlck expressed her support for a roundabout.
Robert WJl(dnson expressed his support for a roundabout.
Steve Linke, representing a group consisting of Jan Neff-Sinclair, Hope Nelson and Scott
Engel, expressed his support for an intersection.
July 18, 2023 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 7
Kris Wright, representing a group consisting of El/zabeth Banks, Sue and Barbara
Campbell, expressed her support for an Intersection.
Sophia Gocan expressed her support for a roundabout.
Monica Gocan expressed her support for a roundabout.
Joseph Nevins expressed his support for a roundabout.
Judy Frankel expressed her support for a roundabout.
Pete Penseyers expressed his support for a roundabout.
Joe Whittaker expressed his support for a roundabout.
In response to an inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Transportation Director Frank
explained that city staff began to consider a roundabout option when discussing how to meet
the objective of improving active transportation uses among the coastline while also slowing
down traffic speeds.
In response to an inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Transportation Director Frank
confirmed that this project Is not concurrent with other roundabout projects In Carlsbad
south ofTamarack Avenue.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Transportation Director Frank
explained that though staff currently have remote communication with the traffic signals at
the Intersection, smart signals would not address the concerns that are being presented.
In response to an inquiry from· Council Member Burkholder, Transportation Director Frank
explained that the roundabout option has a less expensive construction cost, as well as a
higher cost-benefit ratio.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Wood Rogers Inc. Project
Engineer Marlo Tambelllnl explained that the current study demonstrated that on a Saturday
in 2022 during a peak afternoon hour there were 200 pedestrians on the north leg, 70
pedestrians on the east leg, 1 pedestrian on the south leg and 30 pedestrians on the west leg.
Wood Rodgers Inc. Senior Engineer Melissa Gomez explained that their study captured 11
total accidents for the Tamarack Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard intersection.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Transportation Director Frank
explained that from the community outreach that was conducted, the main concern from
residents was to slow speed, have a safe intersection for all users and to allow for different
modes of transportation to be utilized safely.
July 18, 2023 . Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 8
In response to an inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Fire Chief Michael Calderwood
explained that the roundabout does not demonstrate any significant decline on emergency
response time. He added that the road plan also allows for ample area for vehicles to yield
and allow for an emergency vehicle .to pass through.
In response to an inquiry from Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, Transportation Director Frank
confirmed that statistically a pedestrian strucl< In a collision has greater odds at survival with
the roundabout option.
In response to an inquiry from Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, Transportation Director Frank
explained that the Communications Department will be providing on-going Information on
roundabouts as they become more popular In the city, He added that a helpful safety tip for
drivers to know Is to be sure to use their turn signals when entering a roundabout.
In response to an inquiry from Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, Transportation Director Frank
explained that pedestrian flashing beacons will be considered once the project's conceptual
phase Is complete and they enter the final design phase.
In response to an Inquiry from Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, Transportation Director Frank
explained that from his observation, in traffic congestion most gridlock occurs with traffic
signals rather than roundabouts.
In response to an Inquiry from Council Member Burkholder, Transportation Director Frank
explained that when a pedestrian crosses the street with the roundabout option all other
traffic motions continue with the exception of the traffic directly next to the pedestrian
crossing, allowing for more vehicular traffic flow to occur.
In response to an Inquiry from City Manager Chadwick, Transportation Director Frank
explained that there Is another roundabout project at Cannon Road and Carlsbad Boulevard
that could be evaluated for any issues before final construction of the Tamarack Avenue and
Carlsbad Boulevard roundabout. He added that temporary or Interim roundabouts do not
allow for the full benefits of roundabouts to be utilized.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Burkholder, to adopt
Resolution No, 2023-206 with staff returning to the City Council within five months of
completion of the Cannon Road and Carlsbad Boulevard roundabout with data for the City
Council to reevaluate and determine if changes are needed in the design of the Tamarack
Avenue and Carlsbad Boulevard roundabout or to pursue other options for this Intersection.
Motion carried, 3/2 (Blackburn, Burkholder-No).
This Item was continued to a date certain of July 25, 2023.
11. WHAT WORKS CITIES CERTIFICATION FOR PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT AND
July 18, 2023 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE -Receive a report on the City of Carlsbad's performance
management and operational excellence efforts that have been recognized with a sliver
certification by What Works Cities, an International standard of excellence for data-driven,
well-managed local government, (Staff contact: David Graham and Rachel Maltz,
Administrative Services Department)
City Manager's Recommendation: Receive the report.
12. LOCAL CONTROL RESOLUTION -Consider a request frorn Council Member Burkholder to
adopt a resolution expressing support for actions to further strengthen local democracy,
authority and control in relation tiJ local zoning and housing issues, {Staff contact: Sheila
Cobian, City Manager Department)
City Manager's Recommendation: Consider the request to adopt the resolution,
Council Member Burkholder provided opening remarks.
council Member Luna requested the deletion of the 3rd recital contained in the resolution:
"The City of Carlsbad will explore various ways to protect the abl/ity of cities to retain local
control over zoning as each individual city within the State of California Is best suited to
determine how the zoning In their city should be allocated In order to meet the housing needs
of the community. 11
Steve Linke expressed his support for adopting the resolution.
Motion by Council Member Luna, seconded by Council Member Burkholder to adopt
Resolution No, 2023-207 with the deletion of recital 3. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0,
COUNCIL REPORTS AND COMMENTS: Mayor Blackburn and the City Council Members reported
on activities and meetings of some committees and subcommittees of which they are members.
ANNOUNCEMENTS: This section of the Agenda is designated for announcements to advise the
community regarding events that Members of the City Council have been invited to, and may
participate In.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: None.
CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS: None,
CITY CLERK COMMENTS: None.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Blackburn adjourned the duly noticed meeting at 9;05 p,m, f!n~
Kaylin McCauley
Deputy City Clerk
To the members of the:
CITY COUNCIL
Date~CA~CC_!::::::.
CM __k:'.'.'ACM ..!:'.'.... DCM (3) ..i::::::...
March 17, 2022
To:
Council Memorandum
From: Paz Gomez, Deputy City Mana , • Works
Via: Geoff Patnoe, Assistant City M na
Attachment B
{cityof
Carlsbad
Memo ID #2022031
Re: Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamar Avenue Pedestrian Improvements (District 1)
This memorandum provides an update on the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue
Pedestrian Improvements Project, Capital Improvement Program, or CIP, Project No. 605~.
Background
In 2015, the city received a grant from the Active Transportation Grant Program, or ATGP. The
project was selected for the grant because It promotes active transportation Improvements and
traffic calming at this heavily traveled segment of Carlsbad Boulevard to make it safer for all
modes of users. The project Improvements will provide operational enhancements for vehicles,
bicycles, pedestrians and transit riders consistent with the city's General Plan Mobility Element
and Climate Action Plan.
Based on the project's goals and public Input, some notable Improvements include:
• Reconfiguration of the intersection at Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue to help
manage speeds and Improve traffic flow for all modes •
• Widening the sldewallc south ofTamaraclc Avenue, including ac1·oss the bridge
• Relocating a North County Transit District, or NCTD, bus stop to provide safer access
• Improve the project area's aesthetics
• Other Improvements to the pedestrian and bicycle facilities throughout the project area
In 2019, staff received approval from the San Diego Association of Governments, or SAN DAG,
for a three-year extension of the ATGP. This extension started In May 2019 and is set to expire
in May 2022. In addition to construction and temporary Impacts, the project will also have a
permanent impact on the look and the feel of the project area, Due to these impacts, the city
needed to conduct an extensive public outreach effort to gather the public's· Input from 2016 to
2018.
As part of the public engagement effort, staff convened two community workshops and open
houses, an onllne survey, an hi-person survey, four on-site public Informational questions and
answers, or Q&A's. Staff additionally presented the project's proposed Improvements to
California Coastal Commission staff and twice presented the project to the former Traffic Safety
Public Works Branch
Transportation Departm~nt
1635 Faraday Avenue I Carlsbad, CA 92008 I 442-339-2730 t
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd and Tamarack Ave Pedestrian Improvements (District 1)
March 17, 2022
P_age 2
Commission, now known as the Traffic and Mobility Commission. Staff Incorporated feedback
from these engagements to develop and refine design options for the Intersection
Improvements and associated technical studies.
During the preliminary engineering and assessment phase of the project, topographic and site
surveys revealed property line ambiguities in the right-of-way be~ween the city and the
California Department of Parks and Recreation, or State Parks, property. Staff have been in an
oogoing coordination with the State Parks since early 2018 to address the long-term
maintenance and liability Issues associated with the project.
City staff have also presented the State Parks staff with a draft reimbursement agreement that
would reimburse the State Parks for th_elr staff's plan review and construction Inspection
expenses related to the project. The draft reimbursement agreement was submitted to the
State Parks staff in fall 2021 for their plan check and construction Inspection expenses. The city
has not yet received any comments from the State Parks on the draft reimbursement
agreement which has resulted in delays to the previous project schedule.
The city has worked with the State Parks to receive concurrence on conceptual Intersection
control designs since portions of the project are located within the State Parks' right-of-way.
Three alternatives were presented to the State Parks for consideration, and additional
evaluation was prepared to address their comments. In 2021, city staff received a concurrence
letter from the State Parks staff on the project's conceptual designs.
Once city staff received the concurrence letter on the conceptual design options from the State
Parks, staff advertised a request for qualifications in summer 2021 to provide engineering and
environmental services for the project. The first-ranked firm that staff selected to perform
these design services had previously worked on the project In the grant writing and preliminary
design conte.xt. Accordlrigly, staff consulted with the California Fair Polltlcal Practices
Commission, or FPPC, to determine whether a Government Code section 1090 conflict of
interest existed with the first-ranked firm due to their previous work on the project,
Based on feedback received from the FPPC, s.taff determined that the first-ranked firm had a
conflict of Interest based on their previous project work. Consequently, the city's selection
panel completed negotiations with the second-ranked firm, Wood Rodgers, Inc, on
March 81 2022, the City Council approved a professional services agreement with Wood
Rodgers, Inc. to provide engineering design and environmental services for the project.
Discussion
Due to the complexities of the project and maintenance agreement Issues with the State Parks,
the project schedule has been significantly extended. Staff have coordinated with SAN DAG staff
and have requested a second 36-month grant -1:!Xtenslon for the project after the current
expiration in May 2022. The process to seek such an extension requlr.es city staff presentations
Council Memo -Carlsbad Blvd and Tamarack Ave Pedestrian Improvements (District 1)
March 17, 2022
Page 3
at the SANDAG Independent Taxpayer Oversight Committee, or ITOC1 and the SANDAG
Transportation Committee meetings.
City and SAN DAG staff prese_nted the grant extension request to the ITOC on March 9, 2022. At
the same meeting, the ITOC recommended approval to the SAN DAG Transportation Committee
for the grant extension request. Next, staff will present the city's extension request at the
SANDAG Transportation Committee meeting on March 181 20221 and will request their support
for the city's grant extension request.
Next Steps
The city's consultant will evaluate t!,e feasibility of the three Intersection control options, which
wlll be the basis offormallzlng an alternatives analysis, and one design will be selected as a final
alternative. The process will include a thorough public outreach program. Once the
Intersection control alternative Is determined, the project will advance to final engineering
design, processing environmental clearance and resource agency permitting.
The engineering design and environmental process will begin In Aprll 2022 and Is estimated to
be completed and a final conceptual design approved by the City Council In early 2025. The final
design is targeted for approval and authorization to solicit bids for a construction contract In
mld-2025. Staff plan to request City Council approval of the construction contract in mld-2025.
The construction is targeted to start In late 2025 and be completed by late 2026, contingent
upon coordination with the State Parks and obtaining a Coastal Development Permit.
Attachment: A. Project location map
cc: Scott Chadwick, City Manager
Cella Brewer, CIW Attorney •
Gary Barberio, Deputy City Manager, Community Services
Laura Rocha, Deputy City Manager, Administrative Services
Mickey Williams, Police Chief
Michael Calderwood, Fire Chief
Robby Contreras, Assistant City Attorney
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
David Graham, Chief Innovation Officer
l<yle Lancaster, Parks & Recreation Director
Jeff Murphy, Community Development Director
l(rlstlna Ray, Communication & Engagement Director
Suzanne Smithson, Library & Cultural Arts Director
Hosseln Ajideh, Engineering Manager
John l<im, City Traffic Engineer
Nathan Schmidt, Transportation Planning and Mobility Manager
Scott Lyle, Senior Engineer
Lauren Ferrell, Associate Engineer·
Attachment A
LOCATION MAP
r.; ~w-~ ur-==.ruv ~
0
a
NOT TO SCALE
GIP No. 6058
PROJECT NAME CARLSBAD BL VD. AT TAMARACK A VE.
PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS
EXHIBIT
1
PLOTTED 8\1 SCOTT EVAIIS PLOT DA IE! 12/22/17 PA1HtD) \111AIISPDRTAnDN OEPARll,/EN7\111Arnc\0AlE\ TAJ.IARACK-ct.sa BL 1/IPROYE!.IENTS',Dl!ll
CITY COUNCIL ATTACHMENT B
Minutes
Nov. 12, 2024, 5 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER: 5 p,m.
ROLL CALL: Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Burkholder, Luna.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CONCURRENT MEETINGS:
Council Chamber
1200 Carlsbad VIiiage Drive
Carlsbad, CA 92008
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Council Member Acosta led the Pledge of Allegiance,
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Minutes of the Regular Meeting held Oct. 22, 2024
Minutes of the Special Meeting held Oct. 29, 2024, 12 p.m,
Minutes of the Regular Meeting held Oct, 29, 2024, 3:30 p.m,
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to approve the
minutes as presented with an amendment to the Oct. 29, 2024, 12 p.m. special meeting minutes
correcting the header to read "Special Meeting" rather than "Regular Meeting". Motion carried
unanimously, 5/0,
PRESENTATIONS:
Proclamation in Recognition of America Recycles Day
Council Member Luna read the proclamation, BeCreatlve Zone Executive Director l<rlstl Stone
accepted the proclamations and said a few words.
Proclamation in Recognition of Native American Heritage Month
Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel read the proclamation. San Pasqual Band of l<umeyaay Indians
Teacher Juan Reynoso and Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians member Alexis Munoa Dyer
accepted the proclamation and said a few words.
PUBLIC REPORT OF ANY ACTION TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION: None,
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Laurie Boone spoke regarding Carlsbad Community Church's 100th Anniversary on Sunday Nov.
17 and Carlsbad's history.
Greg Waite spoke regarding concerns with affordable and workforce housing that can not be built
due to lack of sewer service.
Vicky syage with Citizens with Friendly Airport spoke regarding the zoning and planning
amendments to the airport code,
Nov, 12,2024 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 2
Brian Schmid spoke regarding concerns neighbors have of the home located at 938 Pine Avenue.
Chlh-Wu Chang thanked Council Members for their service and requested that they consider the
Impacts their decisions have on small businesses.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to approve Consent
Calendar Item Nos. 1, 2 and 4. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
1. REPORT ON CITY INVESTMENTS AS OF SEPT, 30, 2024 -Accept and file Report on City
Investments as of Sept. 30, 2024. (Staff contact: Zach Korach, Administrative Services)
2. MASTER AGREEMENTS WITH CONSULTING FIRMS TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES -1)
Adoption of Resolution No. 2024-244 of the City Council approving 37 master agreements
with consulting firms to provide professional services In an amount not to exceed
$19,300,000; and
2) Adoption of Resolution No.1751 of the Board of Directors of the Carlsbad Municipal Water
District approving 13 master agreements with consulting firms to provide professional
services In an amount not to exceed $5,400,000. (Staff contact: Mariel Cairns, Public Works)
This Item was pulled by Mayor Blackburn for discuss/on.
3. AMENDMENT TO THE SCOPE OF THE SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS ACTIVE
TRANSPORTATION GRANT FOR THE CARLSBAD BOULEVARD AND TAMARACK AVENUE
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, CIP PROJECT NO, 6058 -Adoption of a resolution
approving the submittal of a request to amend the San Diego Association of Governments
Active Transportation Grant for the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection
Improvements Project to change Its scope and extend It for two years. (Staff contact: Tom
Frank, Public Works)
4. APPROVAL OFTHE CARLSBAD HIGH SCHOOL LANCER DANCERS TEAM FOR A WINNING TEAMS
GRANT.AND APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS -Adoption of Resolution No. 2024-246 approving a
winning teams grant through the Community Activity Funding Program for the Carlsbad High
School Lancer Dancers and authorizing an appropriation of $7,666 for the expenditure from
the City council Contingency Account, (Staff contact: Erin Peak, Community Services)
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS PULLED FOR DISCUSSION:
3. AMENDMENT TO THE SCOPE OF THE SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS ACTIVE
TRANSPORTATION GRANT FOR THE CARLSBAD BOULEVARD AND TAMARACK AVENUE
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, CIP PROJECT NO. 6058 -Adoption of Resolution
No. 2024-245 approving the submittal of a request to amend the San Diego Association of
Governments Active Transportation Grant for the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue
Nov. 12, 2024 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 3
Intersection Improvements Project to change its scope and extend It for two years. (Staff
contact: Tom Frank, Public Works)
Steve Linke provided a presentation and made various recommendations,
Mayor Blackburn announced that he requested the Item be pulled to be consistent in his
votes and therefore voting no on Item 3.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to approve
Consent Calendar Item No. 3. Motion carried, 4/1 (Blackburn -No),
BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBER APPOINTMENTS: None.
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION:
5, ORDINANCE MODIFYING CITY MANAGER RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS -Introduction of
Ordinance No. CS-477 amending Title 21 Chapter 2,121 Section 2.12,010 of the Carlsbad
Municipal Code relating to residency requirements of the City Manager, (Staff contact: Shella
Cobian, City Manager)
City Manager's Recommendation: Introduce the ordinance.
Director of Legislative and Constituent Services Sheila Cobian reviewed a PowerPolnt
presentation (on flle In the Office of the City Clerk),
Vicky syage expressed concerns regarding the proposed 50 mile radius.
Introduced Ordinance No. CS-477 with the amendment for the City Manager to reside within
40 miles of the City of Carlsbad City Hall facility In the State of California. Motion carried
unanimously, 5/0.
ORDINANCES FOR ADOPTION:
6, ORDINANCE NO. 50 -REPEAL AND REPLACE TITLE 1 -GENERAL PROVISIONS OF THE
CARLSBAD MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT CODE -Adoption of Ordinance No. 50 of the
Carlsbad Municipal Water District Board of Directors repealing and replacing Title 1 of the
Carlsbad Municipal Water District Code. (Staff contact: Faviola Medina, City Clerk)
City Manager's Recommendation: Adopt Ordinance No. 50.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to adopt
Carlsbad Municipal Water District Board of Directors Ordinance No, 50. Motion carried
unanimously, 5/0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Nov,12,2024 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 4
7. ISSUANCE OFTAX-EXEMPT BONDS BY THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY FOR
THE BENEFIT OF MISSION NEIGHBORHOOD CENTERS, INC, FOR THE LA COSTA FAMILY
APARTMENTS -1) Hold a public hearing under the requirements of the Tax and Equity Fiscal
Responsibility Act and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; and
2) Adoption of Resolution No. 2024-247 approving the Issuance of the California Munlclpal
Finance Authority Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for the benefit of Mission
Neighborhood Centers Inc. on behalf of Mlrka La Costa LP or by another affiliate In an
aggregate principal amount not to exceed $10 million for the purpose of financing or
refinancing the acquisition, rehabilitation, Improvement and equipping of the La Costa Family
Affordable Apartments, a multifamily 100% affordable rental housing project located In
Carlsbad, California. (Staff contact: Erin Peak, Community Services)
City Manager's Recommendation: Take public input, close the publlc hearing and adopt
the resolution.
Program Manager Erin Peak reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file In the Office of the
City Clerk).
Mayor Blackburn opened the duly noticed pub/le hearing at 5:51 p.m.
Seeing no one wishing to speak, Mayor Blackburn closed the duly noticed public hearing at
5:51 p.m.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, seconded by Council Member Acosta, to adopt
Resolution No, 2024-247. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
8, CLIMATE ACTION PLAN -Hold a public hearing and adopt one of the following City Council
resolutions for the Climate Action Plan Update: 1) A resolution adopting the publlcly posted
Draft Climate Plan Update, excluding Measures E-3.2, E-3.3 and E-4.2 (Nonresidential Building
Energy -Updated Reach Code, Nonresidential Building Energy -Sol'ar Carports, and
Residential Building Energy-Updated Reach Code, respectively), to meet the required 2045
reduction target; or
2) A resolution adopting the publicly posted Draft Climate Action Plan Update, excluding
Measure E-3.2 (Nonresidential Building Energy-Updated Reach Code), which would exceed
the 2045 reduction target by approximately 200 MT C02e; or
3) A resolution adopting the publicly posted Draft Climate Action Plan Update, excluding
Measure E-4.2 (Residential Building Energy-Updated Reach Code), which would exceed the
2045 reduction target by approximately 4,000 MT C02e; or
4) A resolution adopting the publicly posted Draft Climate Action Plan Update, which would
exceed the 2045 reduction target by approximately 6,000 MT C02e; and
5) Adopt a resolution certifying Addendum No. 1 to the Housing Element Implementation and
Public Safety Element Update Supplemental Environmental Impact Report for the Climate
Action Plan Update. {Staff contact: l<at\e Hentrich, Public Works)
City Manager's Recommendation: Take public input, close the pub Ile hearing and adopt
Nov, 12, 2024 Carlsbad City council Regular Meeting Page 5
the resolutions,
Senior Program Manager Katie Hentrich reviewed a PowerPolnt presentation (on file In the
Office of the City Clerk).
Mayor Blackburn opened the duly noticed pub/fc hearing at 6:11 p.m.
John Houde spoke In support of Option 5.
Diana Nygaard spoke In support of Option 4.
Don Christianson spoke In favor of EV charging on city-owned parking lots,
Lynda Dan/els spoke in favor of the Cl/mate Action Plan.
Michael McMahon spoke In favor of the Cl/mate Action Plan.
Bob WIicox requested that all of the recommendations be approved,
Mary Hassing spoke In support of Option 4.
Vanessa Forsythe spoke in support of options that Include business, resident/a/ and carports,
Barbara Diamond spoke in favor of Option 4 or Option 5,
Sferra Club organizer Michael King spoke In support of Option 4.
B/ocom Cal/fornia Sr. Vice President Jimmy Jackson spoke In favor of the Cl/mate Action Plan,
Mike Borello spoke against the Climate Action Plan.
Paige Dec/no spoke In favor of Option 4,
Kathy Parker requested that the Cl/mate Action Plan Is adopted as it Is, without exceptions.
E2 representative Bob /(eefe spoke In favor of Option 4 and establishing the reach codes.
on behalf of NA/OP and Barna San Diego, Craig Benedetto spoke in favor of Option 1 with
some minor modifications.
California Apartment Assoc/at/on Vice President Melanie Woods spoke in favor of Option 1
with some minor modifications.
Building Industry Association President and CEO Lori Pfel/er spoke in favor of Option 1 with
some minor modifications,
Nov. 12, 2024 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 6
Climate Action Campaign po//cy advocate Anthony Dang spoke In support of Option 4,
San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Executive Director of Public Affairs Justine Murray
spoke in support of Option 1 with some modifications.
Seeing no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Blockburn closed the duly noticed pub/le hearing
at 7:02 p,m,
Mayor Blackburn called for a recess at 7:02 p.m.
Mayor Blackburn reconvened the meeting at 7:15 p.m.
Motion by Mayor Blackburn, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Bhat-Patel, directing staff to add
solar canopy or carports with battery backup and charging stations to City owned properties
to Option 1, adopted Resolution No. 2024-2481 adopting the publicly posted Draft Climate
Plan Update, excluding Measures E-3,2, and E-4.2 (Nonresidential Building Energy-Updated
Reach Code, and Residential Bulldlng Energy -Updated Reach Code. Motion carried, 4/1
(Acosta -No}
Adopted Resolution No. 2024-249 certifying Addendum No. 1 to the Housing Element
Implementation and Public Safety Element Update Supplemental Environmental Impact
Report for the Climate Action Plan Update, Motion carried unanimously, 5/0,
Minute motion by Mayor Blackburn, seconded by Council Member Luna, directing staff to
evaluate the city's current TDM ordinance to Identify opportunities to modify the standards
to address concerns related to small businesses without compromising the city's ability to
reach the 2045 GHG reduction target In the Climate Action Plan Update, Motion carried, 3/2
(Bhat-Patel, Acosta~ No}.
DEPARTMENTAL AND CITY MANAGER REPORTS:
9, SAN DIEGO ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS REGIONAL UPDATE AND FORECAST-Receive a
presentation from SAN DAG Principal Economist Naomi Young regarding SANDAG's Regional
Update and Forecast. (Staff contact: Jason Haber, City Manager)
City Manager's Recommendation: Receive the presentation,
Intergovernmental Affairs Director Jason Haber Introduced SANDAG Principal Economist
Naomi Young.
SANDAG Principal Economist Naomi Young reviewed a PowerPoint presentation (on file In
the Office of the Cieri<),
The City Council received the presentation.
Nov. 12, 2024 Carlsbad City Council Regular Meeting Page 7
10, ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL UPDATE FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF FISCAL YEAR 2024-25
Receive a report on the economic and financial update for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024-
25 and provide direction as appropriate. (Staff contact: Zach Korach and Matt Sanford,
Administrative Services)
City Manager's Recommendation: Receive the report.
Economic Development Director Matt Sanford and Assistant Finance Director Roxanne
Muhlmelster reviewed a PowerPolnt presentation (on file In the Office of the City Clerk).
The City Council received the report.
11_, AMENDMENT OPTIONS TO CITY COUNCIL POLICY STATEMENT NO, 84, DEVELOPMENT
PROJECT PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT POLICY (AMEND2024-0010 AND PUB17Y-0021) -Receive
staff presentation and
1) Consider the different options presented for increasing stakeholder awareness and
engagement for development project; and
2) Consider adopting Resolution No. 2024-250 amending City Council Polley No. 84
(Development Project Public Involvement Polley) to clarify existing requirements for standard
publlc noticing while expanding the requirements for enhanced public noticing while
expanding the requirements for enhanced public noticing for development projects requiring
approval from the Planning Commission or City Council; or
3) Provide other direction as desired. (Staff contact: Jeff Murphy, Community Services)
City Manager's Recommendation: Receive the presentation, consider options and the
resolution or provide direction as necessary.
Community Development Director Jeff Murphy reviewed a PowerPolnt presentation (on file
In the Office of the City Clerk),
Steve Linke provided a presentation and made various suggestions,
Kris Wright suggested modifications to the public engagement portion of the policy
statement.
Adopted Resolution· No, 2024-250 amending City Council Polley No. 84 (Development Project
Public Involvement Polley) to clarify existing requirements for standard public noticing while
expanding the requirements for enhanced public noticing while expanding the requirements
for enhanced public noticing for development projects requiring approval from the Planning
Commission or City Council. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0.
Nov, 12, 2024 Carlsbad City council Regular Meeting Page 8
COUNCIL REPORTS AND COMMENTS: Mayor Blackburn and the City Council Members reported
on activities and meetings of some committees and subcommittees of which they are members.
Wednesday,Nov, 13,2024
4p,m.
World Kindness Day Youth Pep Rally
Carlsbad Strawberry Company
1050 Cannon Rd,
Carlsbad, CA
ANNOUNCEMENTS: This section of the Agenda Is designated for announcements to advise the
community regarding events that Members of the City Council have been Invited to, and may
participate In.
Minute motion by Council Member Luna, seconded by Council Member Acosta, directing staff to
return at a future date, with a recommendation to consolidate the Beach Preservation
Commission Into a sustainability Commission, She added that staff should also bring back a
Mission Statement, as well as a list of specific duties this Commission would provide
recommendations to the City Councll on, Motion carried unanimously, 5/0,
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: None.
CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS: None,
CITY CLERK COMMENTS: None,
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Blackburn adjourned the duly noticed meeting at 9:14 p.m.
Ana Marie Alarcon, CMC
Deputy City Clerk
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e CI TY COUNCIL
Staff Report .
Meeting Date:
To :
From:
Staff Contact:
Dec.2,2025
Mayor and City Council
Geoff Patnoe, City Manager
Tom Frank, Transportation Director/City Engineer
tom.frank@carlsbadca.gov, 442-339-2766
Attachment B
CA Review TL
Subject: Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements
Project Grant
District: 1
Recommended Action
Adopt a resolution approving the conditions of the San Diego Association of Governments
Active Transportation Grant Amendment for the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue
Intersection Improvements Project.
Executive Summary
The city has a Capital Improvement Program project to improve the Carlsbad Boulevard and
Tamarack Avenue intersection that is to be partly funded by a $1,054,000 grant from the San
Diego Association of Governments. The original design included a roundabout, but the City
Council later chose a smaller-scale design without one.
On May 20, 2025, staff submitted a grant amendment request to SANDAG to extend the grant
by 36 months and to use the remaining $452,643 in available grant funds for the construction
phase only. The SANDAG Board approved a 42-month grant extension on Oct. 31, 2025, with
the provision that if the work is not completed by Nov. 8, 2028, the city would return any funds
up to the remaining balance of $452,643.
The city needs to amend its grant with SAN DAG so it can obtain the remaining grant funds,
approximately $452,000, to be used for construction of the revised project. Staff are requesting
the City Council's approval of the updated grant conditions. If the City Council does not approve
the terms of the grant amendment, SAN DAG would return the remaining grant funds to its
Active Transportation Grant Program.
Dec.2,2025 Item #2 Page 1 of 9
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Explanation & Analysis
Timeline
• The City Council authorized the Public Works Director to apply for a grant from SAN DAG
under the Active Transportation Grant Program for the Carlsbad Boulevard and
Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project {Capital Improvement Program
Project No. 6058), accepting the terms of the grant agreement on March 10, 2015.
• The Public Works Director signed the original grant for $1,054,000 on May 9, 2016.
• On July 18, 2023, the City Council approved the conceptual design of the project, which
included a roundabout at the intersection, pedestrian safety improvements and
widening the sidewalk on the bridge over the Agua Hedionda Lagoon inlet. The City
Council authorized staff to proceed with the project's next steps, which included its final
design and environmental permitting, and directed staff to return with information on
five months of traffic performance at the coastal roundabout project at the intersection
of Carlsbad Boulevard and Cannon Road, which at that time was expected to be
completed in 2028, before seeking the City Council's approval for construction. The staff
report is provided in Exhibit 3.
• On Nov. 12, 2024, the City Council authorized staff to ask SAN DAG to amend the scope
of work to remove the construction phase and request a 24-month time extension of
the grant for the project. {See Resolution No. 2024-245 and the staff report as Exhibit 4.)
• The City Council approved a smaller-scale project with limited intersection
improvements on April 29, 2025. {See Resolution No. 2025-101 as Exhibit 5.)
• On May 20, 2025, staff submitted a grant amendment request to SAN DAG to extend the
grant by 36 months and to use the remaining balance of $452,643 for the construction
phase only.
• On Oct. 31, 2025, the SAN DAG Board approved a 42-month grant extension with the
provision that if the work is not completed by Nov. 8, 2028, the city would return any
funds up to the remaining balance of $452,643. The remaining grant funds are to be
returned to SAN DAG if the City Council does not approve the terms of the grant
amendment.
Grant terms
The grant was initially approved in the amount of $1,054,000, with a remaining grant balance of
approximately $452,643 when the grant expired on May 8, 2025.
Current project status
Staff have proceeded with design of the revised project scope that the City Council approved on
April 29, 2025. Staff are now reviewing the 60%-complete design that was recently provided by
the consultant. Staff anticipate that the project's design would be completed in summer 2026
and that staff would return to the City Council for approval of the plans, specifications and
contract documents and authorization to bid for construction in late summer 2026.
Staff also met with the California Coastal Commission staff on July 24, 2025, and received a
preliminary decision that a coastal development permit exemption would be provided pending
a final decision when the 15-20%-complete plans are provided. In October 2025, staff provided
30% design plans for Coastal Commission staff review, and in November 2025, staff provided
the 60% design plans for Coastal Commission staff review. Staff will follow up with Coastal
Dec.2, 2025 Item #2 Page 2 of 9
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Commission staff to confirm that processing a waiver for a coastal development permit is
acceptable.
Fiscal Analysis
Sufficient funds are available in the budget for this project, Capital Improvement Program
Project No. 6058, if the grant term is extended. Staff plan to include a construction cost forecast
of approximately $2.1 million in the fiscal year 2026-27 Capital Improvement Program Project
budget. If the City Council does not approve the terms of the grant conditions, the construction
forecast would increase to approximately $2.6 million.
Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project
Capital Improvement Program Project No. 6058
Total appropriation to date $2,908,569
Total expenditures and encumbrances to date -$1,918,702
Total available funding $989,867
Expired SANDAG Active Transportation Grant funds -$452,643
Remaining balance (estimated, if grant amendment is not approved} $537,224
Next Steps
Upon the City Council's approval of the conditions of the SAN DAG Active Transportation Grant,
staff will work with SAN DAG staff to extend the grant through Nov. 8, 2028.
Staff will continue working with the Coastal Commission staff on the coastal development
permit exemption and with the Planning staff on the environmental clearance and permitting.
Staff will continue working with the consultant to complete the final engineering and will return
to the City Council for approval of the plans, specifications and contract documents and
authorization to bid for construction in late summer 2026.
Environmental Evaluation
The proposed action is not a "project" as defined by California Environmental Quality Act, or
CEQA, Section 21065 and CEQA Guidelines 15378(b)(4} and does not require environmental
review under CEQA Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3} because the approval of grant funding
conditions is a government fiscal activity which on its own does not involve any commitment to
any specific project which may result in a potentially significant impact on the environment.
Applying for or accepting the grant does not have a legally binding effect on any possible future
discretionary action. The activities or projects for which this funding is intended may require
preparation of an environmental document in accordance with CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines.
The proposed action will not foreclose review of alternatives or mitigation measures by the
public as part of the environmental review process.
Exhibits
1. City Council resolution
2. Location map
3. Staff Report from the July 18, 2023, City Council Meeting (on file in the Office of the City Clerk)
4. Staff Report from the Nov. 12, 2024, City Council Meeting (on file in the Office of the City Clerk)
5. Staff Report from the April 29, 2025, City Council Meeting (on file in the Office of the City Clerk)
Dec. 2,2025 Item #2 Page 3 of 9
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RESOLUTION NO. 2025-254
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARLSBAD,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE CONDITIONS OF THE SAN DIEGO
ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION GRANT
AMENDMENT FOR THE CARLSBAD BOULEVARD AND TAMARACK AVENUE
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
Exhibit 1
WHEREAS, on May 9, 2016, the city was awarded a $1,054,000 grant as part of the San Diego
Association of Governments, or SAN DAG, Active Transportation Grant Program; and
WHEREAS, the grant was extended twice and expired on May 8, 2025; and
WHEREAS, on April 29, 2025, staff presented three options to the City Council, who selected
Option 3 for a smaller-scale project with limited intersection improvements, Resolution No. 2025-101,
for the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue Intersection Improvements Project, Capital
Improvement Program, or CIP, Project No. 6058, or Project; and
WHEREAS, on May 20, 2025, staff submitted a grant amendment request to SANDAG to extend
the grant by 36 months to May 8, 2028, and to use the remaining balance of approximately $452,643
for the construction phase only; and
WHEREAS, on Oct. 31, 2025, the SAN DAG Board approved a 42-month grant extension with the
provision that if the work is not completed in 42 months, which is Nov. 8, 2028, the city would return
any reimbursed funds up to the remaining balance of $452,643 and that if the City Council does not
approve the terms of the grant extension, that the remaining grant funds would return to the SAN DAG
Active Transportation Grant Program; and
WHEREAS, no additional funding is needed at this time.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, as
follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That the proposed action is not a "project" as defined by California Environmental
Quality Act, or CEQA, Section 21065 and CEQA Guidelines 15378{b)(4) and does not
require environmental review under CEQA Guidelines Section 15060{c}(3) because the
approval of grant funding conditions is a government fiscal activity which on its own
does not involve any commitment to any specific project which may result in a
potentially significant impact on the environment. Applying for or accepting the grant
Dec.2,2025 Item #2 Page 4 of 9
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does not have a legally binding effect on any possible future discretionary action. The
activities or projects for which this funding is intended may require preparation of an
environmental document in accordance with CEQA and CEQA Guidelines.
3. That the City Council approves the conditions of the SAN DAG grant amendment in the
Active Transportation Grant Program for the Carlsbad Boulevard and Tamarack Avenue
Intersection Improvements Project, CIP Project No. 6058.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City
of Carlsbad on the 2nd day of December, 2025, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Dec.2,2025
Blackburn, Bhat-Patel, Acosta, Burkholder, Shin.
None.
None.
None.
I
KEITH BLACKBURN, Mayor
SHERRY FREISINGER, City Clerk
(SEAL) (i:-~~~ \
~~ -..
Item #2 Page 5 of 9
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Exhibit 2
LOCATION MAP
SITE
N
t
NOT TO SCALE
N
NOT TO SCALE
PROJECT NAME PROJECT EXHIBIT
CARLSBAD BL VD & TAMARACK A VE NUMBER 2 6058
Item #2 Page 6 of 9
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Exhibit 3
Staff Report from the July 18, 2023, City Council Meeting
(on file in the Office of the City Clerk)
Dec.2,2025 Item #2 Page 7 of 9
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Exhibit 4
Staff Report from the Nov. 12, 2024, City Council Meeting
(on file in the Office of the City Clerk)
Dec. 2,2025 Item #2 Page 8 of 9
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Exhibit 5
Staff Report from the April 29, 2025, City Council Meeting
(on file in the Office of the City Clerk)
Dec. 2,2025 Item #2 Page 9 of 9