The Pearl Street problem: speeding, safety and neglect
La Jolla’s Pearl Street and its surrounding areas are picturesque and bustling, but they are also plagued by a persistent problem: speeding traffic.
Particularly around school zones on Fay Avenue and Girard Avenue, drivers seem to be either unaware of or indifferent to the importance of slowing down and yielding to pedestrians. For residents, parents and students, the danger is clear and present every day.
The issue is exacerbated near schools, where children and families are most vulnerable. Despite the posted speed limits and signs indicating pedestrian crossings, drivers often barrel through these zones as though they were extensions of the freeway. Crossing the streets has become a game of chance, with pedestrians forced to anticipate driver negligence. Whether it’s a student trying to get to class or a parent navigating the neighborhood with young children, every trip feels fraught with risk.
Beyond the speeding, another glaring issue is the behavior of some of the transient population in the area. Reports of individuals exposing themselves while relieving themselves on sidewalks are not uncommon. This adds another layer of concern for those walking through the neighborhood, as it creates an environment that feels not just unsafe but also unsanitary.
It’s worth noting that this is not merely a public safety issue — it’s an opportunity for local law enforcement. If officers were to crack down on speeding, running stop signs and other traffic violations in the area, they could generate significant revenue through citations. Pearl Street, Fay Avenue and Girard Avenue could very well become gold mines for funding improved equipment or other police resources. It’s a win-win scenario: safer streets and better-resourced law enforcement.
Addressing these problems requires a multi-pronged approach. Increased police presence, stricter enforcement of speed limits and community campaigns to raise awareness about pedestrian safety could all help make Pearl Street and the surrounding areas safer for everyone.
Additionally, providing resources for the homeless population to address basic needs in a more dignified way could mitigate some of the behaviors that contribute to the area’s challenges.
Pearl Street and its neighboring roads are central to the life of La Jolla. They shouldn’t feel like danger zones for pedestrians or hot spots for unchecked violations. With a little effort and focus from both the community and law enforcement, these problems can be turned around, restoring the charm and safety that this beautiful area deserves.
Andrew Stueve
ing Michael Hynson
I would like to share a message sent to our Michael Hynson family by Rusty Miller, a world-known and honored surfer:
“Our warmest condolences for the [Jan. 10] ing of Michael, one of our tribe’s most original progressive board shapers and surfers from our era. His hands were magically tuned in to how surfboards fit into waves.
“It was an honor for the huge respect for Michael in The Washington Post, the Los Angeles and New York Times newspapers and internet all over the world honoring our hometown boy, who changed the surfing world forever with his designs, the first downrail surfboard, the first removable fins, the first foiled fin.
“He found the perfect wave and is co-founder of the Windansea Surf Club [and] one of San Diego’s great sports heroes, who is loved and respected all over the world.”
Michael is survived by our son Michael Hynson Jr. and our four grandchildren Maile, Meilani, Miles and Mikah Hynson.
Melinda Merryweather
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