Letter Agreement by and between the City of Hawthorne and Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) Regarding Crosswalk Improvements on Jack Northrop Avenue.

 

Staff recommends that the City Council open and close public hearing, approve the agreement with Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX), and authorize the City Manager or his designee to enter into and execute the agreement and make any minor amendments.

The City has received requests from SpaceX regarding pedestrian safety along Jack Northrop Avenue. SpaceX has proposed upgrades to two existing crosswalks and the installation of two additional mid-block crosswalks on Jack Northrop Avenue between Prairie Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard. In response, the City conducted a traffic study to evaluate the feasibility of installing multiple crosswalks along this corridor. The study, which was completed in February 2026 and paid for by SpaceX, concluded that the proposed crosswalk improvements are recommended, feasible, and would not create or increase hazardous conditions. Based on the study findings, SpaceX may proceed with the recommended upgrades to Crosswalks #1 and #2, as well as the installation of new Crosswalks #3 and #4.

The proposed agreement outlines the respective roles and responsibilities of the City and SpaceX related to the crosswalk improvements. If SpaceX elects to proceed, it will retain, at its sole cost and expense, a duly licensed traffic engineering firm to prepare detailed design plans consistent with the study recommendations. SpaceX will also be responsible for issuing a request for proposals and selecting a qualified contractor to construct the improvements.

Upon completion of construction and successful inspection and acceptance by Los Angeles County and the City, the City will retain ownership of the roadway and associated facilities. The City will also assume responsibility for ongoing operation, maintenance, and liability associated with the crosswalk improvements.

If SpaceX elects not to proceed with the crosswalk improvements at any time and for any reason, SpaceX will have no further obligations under this Crosswalk Improvement Letter Agreement or otherwise with respect to the construction of the crosswalk improvements.

The crosswalk improvements contribute to a safer and more walkable environment, which can strengthen the corridor’s long-term economic vitality.

The cost of the design, construction and any temporary improvements will be paid for by SpaceX. Upon completion of construction and successful inspection and acceptance, the City will assume all cost related to the ongoing operation, maintenance and liability associated with the crosswalk improvements.