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