California town adopts house numbers after 100 years of using street intersections

Carmel-by-the-Sea, a picturesque town in California, is set to abandon its unique, century-old tradition of identifying properties by street intersections in favor of a standardized house numbering system. This significant shift, scheduled to begin in July 2026, marks the end of a practice that has defined the town's identity since its founding in 1916.

For decades, residents and visitors have navigated the town using descriptions based on the nearest street crossings rather than conventional addresses. However, the town council's decision to adopt house numbers was driven by the need to enhance public safety. Emergency services, in particular, will benefit from the new system, enabling them to locate homes more quickly and efficiently.

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I want to thank you because I've been complaining about this for 25 years. I think it took courage for this decision because many before you did not understand how important this is for safety.

The move to implement house numbers was not immediate. It followed years of research, public discussions, and considerable debate among residents. Ultimately, the practical benefits of safety and improved navigation prevailed over the town's resistance to change. Long-time resident Donna Jett expressed her gratitude, stating that the decision required courage and acknowledged the importance of the change for security. Artist Alyson initially resisted the change, viewing it as a loss of the town's unique, timeless character, contrasting it with the anonymity of larger cities like New York or Los Angeles.

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When I first heard about house numbers, I didn't like it. I don't like change and I thought: 'That's why I don't live in New York or Los Angeles anymore.' I'm here precisely because this is a community that resists time and doesn't change.