Police continue to patrol, issue traffic citations in LW

PUBLIC SAFETY

by Capt. Nick Nicholas

Seal Beach Police Department

Leisure World is a unique, active senior community where golf carts, neighborhood electric vehicles, pedestrians using mobility aids and traditional passenger cars all share the same private roadways.

In response to residents repeatedly identifying traffic safety as a top concern during community meetings, the Seal Beach Police Department (SBPD) Traffic Bureau has expanded both enforcement and education inside the gates.

Leisure World residents first formally requested SBPD traffic enforcement in 2019, when the Golden Rain Foundation asked the city to authorize police officers to enforce California Vehicle Code provisions on the private streets. The city council granted that authorization in September 2019, establishing a long-term partnership focused on reducing collisions through education and fair enforcement.

Since then, residents have routinely asked for additional police presence and focused patrols, and the SBPD has continued to respond with directed operations.

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Nick Nicholas From Jan. 1-July 22, SBPD officers issued 89 traffic citations in Leisure World. The most common California Vehicle Code violations were stop sign violations, expired registration, no proof of insurance, and unlawful cell phone use while driving. Officers also issued numerous warnings and used those encounters to explain the rules of the road.

So far this year, SBPD has also responded to 147 calls for service, most frequently for reports of fraud and theft, and traffic collisions, and logged more than 100 patrol checks in Leisure World.

These traffic-related efforts are supported in part by funding from the California Office of Traffic Safety, which enables “directed enforcement” operations targeting speeding, unsafe turning movements and vehicle–pedestrian safety.

Why does enforcement matter? Leisure World’s density and the mix of older pedestrians, cyclists, golf carts, and passenger vehicles can create risk—particularly at intersections—if drivers are inattentive or unfamiliar with the rules. Focused enforcement and on-site education help change behavior and prevent the types of violations that most often lead to collisions. SBPD’s ultimate goal is voluntary compliance: helping residents correct unsafe habits before a crash occurs.

To complement enforcement, SBPD has partnered with the California Highway Patrol to deliver educational presentations addressing senior driver safety, primary collision factors, and lawful operation of low-speed vehicles such as neighborhood electric vehicles and golf carts.

Officer James Dowdell, a specially trained member of the Traffic Bureau, has played a leading role in these operations. His passion for traffic safety and collision prevention has helped tailor enforcement and education to the specific needs of Leisure World residents.

“Leisure World is a special community, and traffic safety here is a shared responsibility,” said Chief of Police Michael Henderson. “Our officers will continue combining education with fair enforcement so residents can travel safely every day.”

Residents with traffic concerns or those who want to request an educational presentation may contact the SBPD non-emergency line at 562-594-7232.