Local News in Brief : Streetscape Shuttle Proposal

Manhattan Beach is exploring the possibility of a running a shuttle bus through the downtown area during construction of the Streetscape redevelopment project.

The program, if approved by the City Council, would use one of the city’s three dial-a-ride buses, which now serve the disabled and senior citizens.

Downtown businesses have suffered since construction began in January. At Tuesday’s council meeting, Roy Maddock, director of public works, said that using one of the dial-a-ride buses would interfere with service to senior citizens and the disabled. Privately owned services are being considered as alternatives.

The council will consult with downtown merchants about the plan and discuss the issue at the next council meeting April 5. The $15,433 cost would be paid from Proposition A transportation funds.

Under the plan, the shuttle could be used until the estimated July 1 completion of the project, although Maddock said it may not be needed for that entire length of time.