The City of Carlsbad City Council meeting held on July 29, 2025, focused on traffic safety and community concerns regarding speeding and parking in the Barrio and Village areas. The agenda included discussions on proposed traffic circles, stop signs, and other traffic calming measures aimed at improving safety for residents.

The meeting began with community members expressing their frustrations about speeding vehicles in residential areas. One resident highlighted the dangers posed by fast-moving traffic near schools and community centers, emphasizing the need for effective measures to slow down drivers. Many speakers advocated for the installation of traffic circles, arguing that they would enhance safety by forcing vehicles to reduce speed and improve visibility at intersections.

Socorro Anderson, a local business owner, noted the high speeds of both city and private vehicles, urging the council to take action to protect pedestrians, especially children and seniors. Abby Chamberlain supported the idea of roundabouts, citing their efficiency in managing traffic flow and reducing carbon emissions. She emphasized the importance of adapting to changes in traffic patterns, particularly with the rise of e-bikes in the community.

Several residents, including Raul VMR and Susan Smith, shared personal experiences of near misses while trying to cross streets, calling for immediate action to implement traffic calming measures. Smith specifically requested more roundabouts, stating that one was insufficient to address the ongoing safety issues.

Christine Davis, representing the Carlsbad Village Association, raised concerns about preserving parking spaces while implementing safety measures. She suggested a combination of stop signs and speed humps as a more cost-effective solution that would not negatively impact parking availability.

The discussion also included differing opinions on the effectiveness of traffic circles versus stop signs. Some residents expressed skepticism about traffic circles, citing concerns over emergency response times and the potential for confusion among drivers unfamiliar with their use. Chris Wright reported that a recent community meeting revealed a majority of residents opposed to traffic circles, favoring alternative solutions like raised pedestrian crosswalks.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the community's urgent need for improved traffic safety measures in the Barrio and Village areas. The council is expected to consider the feedback from residents as they move forward with plans to address these pressing concerns. Further discussions and potential decisions regarding the implementation of traffic calming measures will be scheduled in upcoming meetings.