Pedestrian Bridge Over PCH?

New Hermosa Beach Mayor Jeff Duclos proposes an ambitious project to build a pedestrian bridge across Pacific Coast Highway. Duclos’ appointment as mayor comes at a busy time for the city. Longtime city manager Steve Burrell retired last month and the City Council has embarked on a search for his replacement. Furthermore, the council is currently negotiating new contracts with city employees. Hermosa Beach leaders also recently reached a settlement in the Macpherson Oil lawsuit, and an environmental review of a newly proposed oil drilling project is expected to begin within the next year. The bridge, Duclos said, would be a symbolic structure linking two sides of the city, while serving as a gateway welcoming visitors and residents crossing the beach town’s main thorough fare. It would also provide a safe crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists. He said that a bridge – or bridges – can be constructed over Pacific Coast Highway with little or no funding. Referencing Dana Point and Santa Monica as an examples of cities that have successfully built pedestrian crossings above major thoroughfares.