LIVINGSTON -- While officials expect the city's latest fast food addition to bring more revenue and jobs, some worry that the site will amplify a worsening traffic problem in the area.
The City Council passed an item during Tuesday's meeting conditionally approving the site plan and design review for a Taco Bell restaurant poised to open on a currently vacant lot at 339 Joseph Gallo Drive.
But the developing part of town is creating worries for some, especially when it comes to students who frequent fast food restaurants.
Rancho San Miguel Markets also plans to locate in the same area with a 55,000-square-foot grocery store on the northeast corner of B Street and Winton Parkway.
The latest developments piling onto a section of town that already hosts several fast food restaurants and other services have some locals worried about traffic and safety.
Colette Alvernaz, a Livingston resident who frequently warns of environmental risks of various projects the city undertakes, raised several concerns about the latest project during Tuesday's meeting.
"I'm not opposed to it, but I want to make you aware -- the traffic on the road, Joseph Gallo Drive, is terrible," she said. "Trucks are running the red light trying to get onto Winton Parkway to get onto the onramp. It is an already impacted intersection -- it needs to be looked at."
With schools in the area, there needs to be a safe route for children to travel, she added.
Alvernaz also questioned whether Livingston can provide enough quality water to the business and mentioned her concerns over increased air pollution with another drive-through restaurant.
After Alvernaz finished, City Manager Jose Antonio Ramirez said there will be enough water capacity for the business and the Planning Department will work to incorporate safe routes for children to travel through the area.
Ramirez said the city is aware that the streets in the area are affected and that officials are looking for ways to ease traffic woes there.
Mike Sperry Jr., another resident in the area, agreed with Alvernaz and said that while the northwest corner of the city is growing, there needs to be better connectivity with the rest of the city because most residents live on the other side of town.
"I think we need walkways getting over there," Sperry said. "I don't think we've had anyone hit yet, but this time of year with the fog, whether it's in the morning or late night, people are out there walking."
When Rancho San Miguel opens, more sidewalks will be installed, said Donna Kenney, Livingston's community development director.
The traffic issue isn't a major concern, she said. The city's traffic master plan has mapped out the section of the city and the businesses moving in won't worsen any travel issues.
The Taco Bell restaurant probably will open in mid-to-late spring.
Reporter Mike North can be reached at (209) 385-2453 or mnorth@mercedsunstar.com.
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