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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPW Roadside Memorial Policy PPTRoadside Memorial Policy Losing a family member to a traffic collision or other fatal incident profoundly affects those left behind. This trauma leads many to seek ways to remember and honor their loved ones in meaningful ways, such as through roadside memorials. What is a Roadside Memorial? •A tribute placed near the site of a fatal traffic incident •Often installed by family or friends to honor a lost loved one •May include items like crosses, flowers, photos, or personal mementos •Intended as a space for remembrance, reflection, and public mourning •Typically located along roadways, sidewalks, medians, or intersections Why Regulate Roadside Memorials? •Sightline obstruction, distract drivers, and create pedestrian hazards. •Objects may interfere with critical infrastructure •Long-term, unmanaged memorials complicate maintenance and can impede emergency response access. •Cities are legally required to enforce ADA standards to maintain clear and accessible public pathways. •Memorials may degrade over time due to weather exposure. •Unsecured items can: •Blow into roadways or waterways •Become debris, posing safety and environmental hazards •Contribute to litter and pollution •Harm local ecosystems Research and Best Practices •Staff reviewed policies from other California municipalities. •Common approaches include: •Limiting the duration of roadside memorials •Offering alternative permanent commemoration options •Caltrans removes memorials from state highways due to safety concerns and offers a Victims Memorial Sign Program as a safer alternative. •Sample Comparison of Roadside Memorial Policies in California •Novato, CA: 30 days •Roseville, CA: 45 days •San Mateo County, CA: 30 days (+ one week upon approval) •Paso Robles, CA: 2 years Purpose of the Policy The proposed Roadside Memorial Policy aims to balance public safety and accessibility with the need to honor those lost. Proposed Roadside Memorial Policy Regulations and Requirements: •Placement and Establishment : •Memorials can be placed as close as possible to the incident site while avoiding obstructions to pedestrian pathways and infrastructure. •Applicants must fill out an application to establish the memorial with the City. •Accessibility Compliance: •No obstruction of sidewalks, curb ramps, or accessible pathways •Clear and safe movement for individuals with disabilities •Time Limitation and Removal: •Memorials are allowed for up to 30 days from the date of establishment with the City to provide families with temporary space for public grieving while mitigating long -term safety and maintenance concerns. Prohibited Items: •Unattended candles, glass, sharp objects, or other hazardous materials as determined by the Public Works Director. •Any prohibited items will be removed immediately by the City. •Items removed will be stored for 60 days to allow time for the family to collect them. •Noise Restrictions: •Music, loud noise, or sound- producing devices are not permitted at roadside memorials. City Authority to Remove Memorials •The City may remove a memorial if it: •Is improperly placed •Poses a safety concern •Interferes with pedestrian or traffic flow •Disrupts routine maintenance •Falls into disrepair •Remains in place beyond 30 days Before removal, the City will : •Make reasonable efforts to contact the memorial content owner •Coordinate when and where contents may be retrieved •Hold items for up to 60 days to allow families to collect them A Lasting Tribute Consider the Commemorative Bench & Table Program •A meaningful way to honor a loved one •Enhances public spaces for the entire community •Creates a lasting legacy in parks, trails, and gathering areas •View options on the City’s website Thank you/Questions?