Placer County continues to address increased demand for services in North Lake Tahoe

Published Aug. 20, 2020

Placer County continues to address increased demand for services in the North Lake Tahoe region through traffic management, signage at trash bins and a volunteer ambassador program. 

“Our team is working to be nimble and responsive as we navigate the ever-evolving challenges in our region,” said District 5 Supervisor Cindy Gustafson. “We are listening to the feedback from our community members and doing everything within our jurisdiction to address the impacts we have all been observing. ”  

To improve traffic flow, Placer County has been conducting a town center crossing guard pilot program during several days of high traffic in Kings Beach. This program is now being expanded to Tahoe City and will include Thursdays during the farmer’s market. 

The county is also increasing signage around high-traffic areas to advise people that placing trash outside of the bins, even if they are full, can negatively impact wildlife and lake clarity. The signs will remind individuals to take trash with them if the bins are waiting to be cleared. This follows last week’s initiative to increase trash service in both Kings Beach and Tahoe City. 

Placer County, North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, North Tahoe Business Association and Tahoe City Downtown Association are also working to facilitate an ambassador program that will focus on visitor education, local safety policies, trash clean-up initiatives and more. The program is set to launch next week and volunteer opportunities are available.

“Being a local resident working for the county provides me a unique position to help turn concerns into solutions,” said Erin Casey, principal management analyst for Placer County’s North Lake Tahoe County Executive Office. “I care deeply about how our community is being affected, as do the rest of my colleagues. We are working every day to find ways that effectively address the challenges that COVID-19 has brought to our community.” 

County officials have joined regional partners to discourage day trips to the region until after peak season.