Memorandum
City of Lawrence
Department of Public Works
Traffic Engineering Division
TO: |
Charles Soules, Director of Public Works |
FROM: |
David Woosley, Transportation/Traffic Engineer |
CC: |
David Cronin, City Engineer |
Date: |
28 August 2013 |
RE: |
3 September 2013 City Commission Agenda Item 7th Street & Alabama Street Multi-Way Stop or Speed Humps |
Background
On August 5, 2013, the Traffic Safety Commission heard a request to establish a MULIT-WAY STOP or SPEED HUMPS at the intersection of 7th Street & Alabama Street. Traffic data collected July 10-11 found that none of the criteria for a MULTI-WAY STOP were met; however, the 85th percentile speed of traffic on Alabama Street was measured at 26.3mph, which is more than 5mph over the posted speed limit of 20mph; therefore, the City’s criteria was met for consideration of SPEED HUMPS.
Traffic Safety Commission Action
At the Traffic Safety Commission meeting, four citizens appeared and spoke in favor of the request, noting the nursery school and church at the corner creating considerable congestion at the intersection during peak times and possible confusion of motorists on 7th Street since there is a MULTI-WAY at the first intersection both east and west of Alabama Street. The Traffic Safety Commission expressed concern about installing traffic control devices that do not meet the minimum criteria provided in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and the unintended consequences that can be created; and noted that traffic calming devices do a much better job of slowing traffic. A motion to recommend construction of traffic calming devices on Alabama Street at 7th Street carried unanimously, 9-0.
Action Request
It is recommended that the City Commission concur with the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Commission, if appropriate.
There is currently a backlog of traffic calming devices approved and do not have funding identified