LAGUNA NIGUEL

Patti Richardson recalls a time when there wasn’t a single stoplight on Crown Valley Parkway. That was nearly 25 years ago, before shopping malls, local businesses and subdivisions dotted the area.

These days, Crown Valley Parkway looks more like a freeway, Richardson said. “Some people here drive like crazy,” Richardson said.

“They think they’re still on the freeway.”

Some relief, at least, is in sight after the City Council last week unanimously approved spending $12,000 to add a second turn lane into Costco Wholesale at 27972 Cabot Road. The additional lane would ease the traffic backup on Crown Valley Parkway, according to city staff. More vehicles try to enter Costco than one left-turn lane can accommodate, especially during the holidays, according to a report by Ken Montgomery, director of public works.