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:	12 November 2013
RE:	19 November 2013 City Commission Agenda Item Learnard Avenue, 19^th Street to 23^rd Street Traffic Calming

Background

On October 7, 2013, the Traffic Safety Commission heard a request for TRAFFIC CALMING on Learnard Avenue between 19^th Street & 23^rd Street. Learnard Avenue is classified as a local street in a residential area and is paved approximately 20 feet wide without curb & gutter or sidewalks. Traffic data collected September 18-19, 2013, found approximately 700 vehicles in a 24-hour period and an 85^th percentile speed of 35.25mph. Therefore, this location meets the minimum criteria for consideration of traffic calming devices as established by the city’s Traffic Calming Policy.

Traffic Safety Commission Action

At the Traffic Safety Commission meeting, three (3) residents spoke in favor of the request, noting that the street is narrow, there are no sidewalks and there are a lot of families with small children, as well as people walking dogs, joggers and bicyclists.  In addition, two (2) individuals had submitted e-mail correspondence prior to the meeting supporting the request. A motion to recommend TRAFFIC CALMING on Learnard Avenue between 19^th Street & 23^rd Street carried unanimously, 8-0.

Action Request

Currently there is a backlog of traffic calming projects that have been approved however there is not a funding source identified to implement / construct these devices. As the City completes maintenance projects, we have installed approved devices on those streets with maintenance funds.  Should the Commission desire to concur with the Traffic Safety Commission’s recommendations, this project will be appropriately placed on the list pending funding being identified