As a longtime resident of Corral Canyon, I am well aware that it can be a hassle to make a left turn onto PCH from Corral Canyon Road (CCR) on any sunny weekend day. A traffic signal would certainly make things more convenient, but I am not convinced that putting a traffic signal in place will make for better living in our community. Safety is the primary argument for the signal, yet the two incidents most commonly cited could have happened anywhere on Route 1. Two youths were struck and killed by PCH traffic while playing “chicken” near CCR, and a runaway truck on PCH struck a resident of a beach house across from CCR.
My research indicates that in most instances, collisions and severe injuries increase after traffic signals are installed. (Try searching “traffic signal accidents” on google.com) Malibu has any number of residential areas whose main access point is similar to CCR. Who is to say that those residents all couldn’t make the same argument? I don’t think there is one thoughtful Malibu resident who would like to see PCH in Malibu look like it does in the South Bay area.
It occurs to me that there may be other means to improve convenience and safety at PCH and CCR. Is the timing of the signals at Las Virgenes and John Tyler as fine-tuned as possible to allow for gaps in the westbound traffic passing CCR? Could the traffic median area be improved for those turning out from CCR when westbound traffic is clear, but who then have to wait for a gap in the eastbound traffic? Could a special U-turn median be designated just west of CCR? Would a flashing yellow warning light alert speeding drivers on PCH that they are approaching an active intersection?
I encourage Caltrans to conduct a thorough study, and my fellow residents to weigh all factors before jumping to the conclusion that more signals on PCH in Malibu are the best answer to our traffic woes!
Scott Palamar