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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-BPW-1997-12-10BOARD OF PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE December 10, 1997 NOTES The meeting began at 4:15 p.m. PRESENT: Commissioners Ehrhardt, Gutenberger, Jenkins (arrived at 4:25 p.m.), Seligmann, Smith, Mayor Cohen, Alderperson Gray (arrived at 4:45 p.m.) and Assistant Superintendent Fabbroni (arrived at 4:15). Commissioner Ehrhardt chaired the meeting. Additions: TCAT Agreement. There were no deletions from the agenda. 1. All -Way Stop at Willard Way /University /Lake Comm. Ehrhardt noted that because of the recent construction on the Stewart Avenue bridge over Fall Creek, a temporary all -way stop was installed at Willard Way /University /Lake Street intersection. Upon completion of the project, the all -way stop was removed. The board has received several requests for the all -way stop to be re- installed permanently. Traffic Systems Engineer Dan Cole was present to address the board. Mr. Cole noted that there were 2 accidents during the short period of time the all -way stop has been in effect. He explained that going north -bound through the intersection is wide and therefore difficult to see the stop sign. He recommended that the street be realigned if an all -way stop were to become permanent. He also noted that the traffic counts taken at the intersection did not warrant an all -way stop. Mayor Cohen told the board that he felt it reasonable for an island to be installed and that a resolution should be brought forward at the next meeting directing staff to implement one. He also noted that the turn radius needs to be taken into consideration when designing the island. The board agreed that a resolution will be presented at the next regular meeting to install an island and an all -way stop at the intersection of Willard Way, University Avenue and Lake Street. 2. West Buffalo Street Parking Lot Comm. Ehrhardt explained to the board that the IURA has passed a resolution to turn over the West Buffalo Street parking lot to the city. He indicated that the residents are willing to pay for a $30 permit per year. He noted that the residents have also questioned the installation of lighting. Nels Bohn, Community Development Planner, was present to address the board. He told the board that the residents no longer feel that a permit system is required since there hasn't been a lack of parking. Cynthia Yahn and several residents were also present to address the board. Each resident indicated their appreciation of the lot and how it seems to be utilized only by residents. Comm. Smith stated that if the lot is only being used by residents, he is not inclined to charge for the parking. Supt. Gray told the residents that he's happy the arrangement is working well for them, but there is the issue of maintenance. The city took on a couple of neighborhood parking lots that do not produce revenue but cost the city about $10,000 a year to maintain. A resolution will be provided at the next regular meeting to accept the lot as city property. Board of Public Works Committee of the Whole December 10, 1997 3. Update on Spencer Road Traffic Island. Comm. Ehrhardt noted that the board needs to decide whether to make the temporary traffic island on Spencer Road permanent. Dan Cole, Traffic Systems Engineer, was present to address the board. He noted that the island has done a great job reducing traffic although speed has increased in the 400 block. He added that the "No Right Turn" is a disaster. IPD issued approximately 50 tickets in two days, drivers stated they did not see the signs. He indicated that additional signage has since been installed although enforcement has dropped off. Mayor Cohen suggested that additional signage be installed and that he would discuss the issue with Chief Basile for additional enforcement. Comm. Ehrhardt noted that he feels that people think the prohibited turn is a bad idea so they do it anyway. He added that the tickets given out were reduced by half by city court giving motorists the idea that the signs are not intended to be taken seriously. Supt. Gray told the board that people do what they are comfortable with and it seems they do not feel in danger by crossing the street to the pull off and making the right turn. Mayor Cohen indicated that tickets should also be given for crossing the double yellow line if that is the case. He then suggested that he would observe traffic with Mr. Cole to find a mutually agreed solution. Comm. Ehrhardt noted that the board needs to receive input from the residents. This item will continue at a future meeting. 4. Update on East State Street Traffic Concerns. Councilperson Vaughan was present to address the board. Ms. Vaughan told the board that driver behavior is a real problem in the area. She noted that the physical controls are not effective. She told the board she has had discussions with the county and asked for intermunicipal cooperation in enforcement. Ms. Vaughan added that pedestrian safety is an issue and that possibly more sidewalks could be installed. Discussion followed concerning enforcement and where the various enforcement agencies have jurisdiction. The discussion turned to the intersection of College Avenue and Dryden Road and whether a turning lane could be installed. Supt. Gray noted that if the intersection is congested with vehicular and pedestrian traffic people will probably go other routes. Mayor Cohen questioned why there is no pedestrian cycle at the intersection. Traffic Systems Engineer Dan Cole indicated that the cost for a dedicated walk cycle is very expensive. It was noted that with the high volume of pedestrian traffic, the crossing light is usually ignored. This item will return at a future date. 5. Discussion of Traffic Regulations. Comm. Ehrhardt told the board that he has two suggestions both of which had previously been raised by the Traffic Task Force. He explained that he would like the state to consider reducing the city speed limit to 25 mph and revoking the "Right on Red" law within the city. He explained that vehicles would not be able to turn right on red unless it is posted. Traffic Systems Engineer Dan Cole noted that both items are identified within the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices. He noted that he'd like to have feed back from the Police Department on this item. Asst. Supt. Fabbroni Board of Public Works Committee of the Whole December 10, 1997 explained that the speed limit is based on what is reasonably enforceable and the speed traveled by 85% of traffic. Comm. Ehrhardt noted that he understood the rationale for determining the speed limit but that vehicles dictate movements within the city. He added that the right on red law is hazardous for pedestrians. Mayor Cohen stated that if the speed limit were lowered, most traffic would travel slower therefore meeting the 85 %. Comm. Seligmann noted that pedestrians have the right of way and that law should be enforced. He added that he felt 35 was an adequate speed limit. Supt. Gray explained to the board that traffic laws and signage are consistent throughout the country. He noted that in some areas, speed limits can be lowered in accordance to state regulation. He added that people in general, do what they feel is comfortable and if they feel the speed is too fast they will slow down. Comm. Ehrhardt stated that he felt drivers do not act responsibly with the right on red law and therefore should have it taken from them. The board agreed to vote on a resolution requesting that the state consider changing the city speed limit and right on red law. 6. Funding for Water Treatment Plant. Asst. Supt. Fabbroni told the board that he did not have a resolution to present to the board but indicated that he will produce one for the next voting meeting. He noted that the resolution would be to extend O'Brien and Gere's services to undertake a treatment plant preliminary design development. A resolution will be voted on at the next regular meeting. 7. TCAT Agreement. Supt. Gray noted that the agreement that was distributed is a confidential agreement which allows the city to negotiate a merger with the other entities. Mayor Cohen asked that the board read the proposed agreement in order to vote on it at the next meeting. The meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m. Notes taken by: Donna L. Payne Administrative Secretary