Outstanding Community Improvement Project

The Oak View Streetscape Improvement Project transformed a 15-block underserved neighborhood in Huntington Beach into a safer, greener, and more connected community. Guided by complete streets principles, the project addressed pedestrian safety, environmental sustainability, and community identity, making the area more accessible and welcoming for residents. Specific pedestrian enhancements included ADA-compliant sidewalks, bulb-outs to reduce crossing distances and calm traffic, trip hazard removal, wayfinding signage, and improved lighting. These elements enhanced safety and created a seamless and enjoyable pedestrian experience, especially for students walking to Oak View Elementary School. 

The project’s scope went beyond infrastructure improvements to incorporate artistic and cultural elements that reflect the community’s identity. Features such as artistic crosswalks, monument signs, and intersection murals contributed to a sense of place and pride among residents. Additionally, the landscaping improvements introduced 100 new drought-tolerant trees and planted buffers, providing much-needed shade, beautifying the area, and improving air quality. These enhancements also included bio-swales to manage stormwater runoff, further emphasizing environmental sustainability. The Project also identified existing red curb areas to create additional parking spaces, limiting the total parking spaces lost to fewer than 10, which minimized community disruption.

Collaboration was a cornerstone of the project’s success. Harris staff worked closely with the school district, local organizations, and community members to ensure the improvements met their needs and priorities. Outreach efforts included targeted initiatives for the Spanish-speaking population, leveraging Project Manager Elizabeth Reyes' bilingual skills to improve communication and participation. Meetings with stakeholders before community workshops ensured their voices were heard and incorporated into the final designs. This inclusive approach fostered trust and engagement, ensuring the project was not only functional but also embraced by the community.