Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Public Works

TO:	David Cronin, City Engineer
FROM:	David Woosley, Transportation/Traffic Engineer
DATE:	10 September 2014
RE:	Agenda Items 10/21/2014: Traffic Safety Commission, No Parking along the east and south sides of Raintree Place and along the west side of Valley Lane

Background

At the April 7 Traffic Safety Commission meeting, the Commission heard a request from the Fire & Medical Department to establish NO PARKING along the east and south sides of Raintree Place, along the west side of Valley Lane, and along the inside of the two curves. Raintree Place and Valley Lane are both classified as “local” streets in a residential area and are paved approximately 26 feet wide.  Parking is currently prohibited 8am-4pm Mon-Fri along the west and north sides of Raintree Place.

Traffic Safety Commission Action

At the Traffic Safety Commission meeting, a representative of the Fire & Medical Department noted that when parking occurs on both sides of the street, fire equipment cannot access the street; however, if the request is implemented, they will be able to set-up and operate safely. Six (6) residents of the area also addressed the Commission, all in support of the request. In addition, an e-mail was received in support of the request. The Traffic Safety Commission voted unanimously, 7-0, recommending approval of the request, subject to clarifying that parking is permitted within the eyebrow on the southeast corner.

City Commission Action

At the May 20 City Commission meeting, a resident of the neighborhood felt that Raintree Place would become a permanent parking lot for residents from Valley Lane and requested the ability to obtain permits for guests. The City Commission approved the ordinance on first reading; but, requested that second reading be held to give staff time to make a recommendation on the potential of permit parking.

Staff Recommendation

City staff recommends that permit parking not be established in this area at this time; however, residents can apply for a temporary use of right-of-way permit for occasions when they may need on-street parking reserved.

Action Request

Adopt on second reading, Ordinance No. 8990, establishing NO PARKING along the east and south sides of Raintree Place, along the west side of Valley Lane, and along the inside of the two curves, except within the eyebrow on the southeast corner, and rescind NO PARKING 8AM-4PM MON-FRI along the west and north sides of Raintree Place, if appropriate.