Carmel Proposes New Address System with Quadrants and Logical Positional Model

Carmel-by-the-Sea is taking a significant step towards modernizing its address system, as discussed in a recent City Council workshop. The meeting focused on three proposed models for numbering streets: quadrants, continuous numbering within the city, and a logical positional model.

The quadrant system, which divides the city into four sections based on major streets, faced criticism for its potential confusion. Council members highlighted issues such as duplicated numbers and the challenge of renaming streets, which could lead to costly sign replacements. One member shared a personal anecdote about getting lost in a quadrant system, emphasizing the need for clarity in navigation.

The continuous numbering model, which would start at one and incrementally number houses, was also debated. While it offers a straightforward approach, concerns were raised about the lack of logical numbering, particularly in relation to existing street names.

The most favored proposal emerged as the logical positional model. This system retains the traditional understanding of addresses, allowing residents to easily visualize their location within the city. It would keep numbers to four digits or less, preserving the quaint charm of Carmel while ensuring that addresses remain intuitive.

Council members expressed a desire to maintain Carmel's unique identity, with one stating, "Carmel is special," and advocating for a system that reflects that distinction. The proposed models have received preliminary approval from the post office and county officials, paving the way for further discussions and potential implementation.

As Carmel-by-the-Sea moves forward, the city aims to strike a balance between modern efficiency and the preservation of its distinctive character, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can navigate the charming streets with ease.