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HomeMy WebLinkAbouttecp_0916037 ~~ .!~~ C"Q 11 c'ti TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMITTE~ UKIAH CIVIC CENTER Conference Room No. 3 300 Seminary Avenue Ukiah, California 95482 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2003 3:00 P.M. AGENDA CALL TO ORDER: Cotroneo, Harris, Lohse, Looney, Pilant, Seanor, Walker, and Chairman Kageyama /II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: June 17, 2003 and July 15, 2003 '111. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS The Traffic Engineering Committee welcomes input from the audience. In order for everyone to be heard, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes per person and not more than 10 minutes per subject. The Brown Act regulations do not allow action to be taken on non-agenda items. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS: IV. OLD BUSINESS a. Discussion and possible action regarding request for ordinance banning Segway from sidewalks. b. Discussion and possible action regarding changes to curbside parking at 605 North State Street -Michelle Leoni, Mountanos Properties. V. NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion and possible action regarding request from MTA to establish new bus stops on Gobbi Street at South Oak Street. VI. COMMITTEE MEMBER REPORTS VIII. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS a. review of automated speed limit display signs b. review of flexible crosswalk signs VIII ADJOURNMENT Please call Katri 463-6203 if you are unable tc The City of Ukiah complies with ADA requirements and will attempt to accommodate individuals with disabilities upon request. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMITTEE ]UNE 17, 2003 NOTES MEMBERS PRESENT Jim Looney, Public Works Super. Rick Seanor, Dep. Dir. of Public Works Dan Walker, Ukiah Police Dept. Ben Kageyama, Chairman Doug Pilant, Public Member STAFF PRESENT Kathy Kinch, Recording Secretary QTHERS PRESENT Arturo Gonzalez Obducid Medina Moises Soria Mireya Gaona Lynn Harris Vicki Patterson Santiago Simental MEMBERS ABSENT Dave Lohse Kevin Cotroneo Michael Harris The meeting was called to order by Chairman Kageyama at 3:08 p.m. in Conference Room No. 3, Ukiah Civic Center, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California. Roll was taken with the results listed above. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: April 15, 2003 ON A MOTION by Member Looney, seconded by Member Seanor, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to approve the minutes of April 15, 2003, as submitted. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS N/A DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS: OLD BUSINESS N/A NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion andgossibfe action regarding_use of alleyway between Nuestra Casa and the former Big A Auto Parts Store, located at 487 North State Street - Santiaao TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMM1TfEE June 17, 2003 Page 1 of 3 Simental. Nuestra Casa. Santiago Simental, Nuestra Casa, 487 North State Street, stated Nuestra Casa currently occupies the former Community Care office. There is an alleyway between Nuestra Casa and the former Big A Auto Parts store, which is currently vacant. Located behind Nuestra Casa is a family center for children's tutoring classes. Vehicles traveling northbound on State Street occasionally utilize the alleyway to avoid the traffic signal lights at Scott and State Streets and Norton and State Streets. The building located at the east end of the alleyway, fronting Main Street, is directly behind the sidewalk, making it difficult to have clear sight visibility of vehicles traveling south on Main Street. There is on-site parking for Nuestra Casa and the current vacant building. Ms. Patterson, 487 North State Street, Ukiah, stated that she is concerned about the public's safety due to the fact that a child was hit at the Main Street exit of the alleyway. Ms. Harris, 487 North State Street, Ukiah, stated that one particular day, she was backing out of the parking lot and a car passing by had to swerve in order to avoid hitting her and causing an accident. Mr. Soria, 487 North State Street, Ukiah, also acknowledged the blind spot on Main Street. Ms. Gaona, 487 North State Street, Ukiah, is the after school program teacher, stated that cars drive very fast through the alleyway. Mr. Simental proposed closing the alleyway at the Main Street entrance/exit or making the alley one way going westbound from Main Street. He also commented that it might cause a problem for future any future occupant of the Auto Parts store. There was a general discussion regarding making the alleyway one-way, abandoning the alleyway, and installing speed humps. ON A MOTION by member Looney, it was carried by the following roll call vote of the members present to recommend that two speed humps be installed, which would betaken to City Council on July 16, 2003. AYES: Members Looney, Seanor, Kageyama, and Walker. NOES: Member Pilant. ABSENT: Members Lohse, Harris, and Cotroneo. b. Discussion and possible action regarding_changes tocurbside parking at 605 North State Street -Michelle Leoni, Mountanos Properties. Member Looney will paint a six foot red curb at 605 North State Street. However, the TEC needs input from Larry DeKnoblough/Parking District regarding the enforcement of time TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMI'ffEE June 17, 2003 Page 2 of 3 Minutes TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMITTEE July 15, 2003 Members Present Others Present Mike Harris Tom Cash Dave Lohse Miles Gordon Jim Looney Trent Taylor Dan Walker Kelley Coulter Ben Kageyama, Chairman Rick Seanor Staff Present Members Absent Cathy Elawadly, Recording Secretary Kevin Cotroneo Doug Pilant The meeting was called to order by Chairman Kageyama at 3:00 p.m. in Conference Room No. 3, Ukiah Civic Center, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California. 11. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: N/A III. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Thomas Cash commented it would be beneficial to City residents if permits were issued to increase the allowed amount of time vehicles can be parked on public streets in residential areas. He stated two hours is the maximum amount of time a person can park a vehicle in his neighborhood. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS: IV. OLD BUSINESS a. Discussion and possible action regarding changes to curbside parking at 605 North State Street -Michelle Leoni, Montanos Properties ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Looney, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to recommend this agenda item be continued to the next regular TEC meeting, as no staff report was available and there was no representation for the agenda item. V. NEW BUSINESS a. Public hearing regarding Appeal of Notice of Intention to Abate and Remove an Abandoned, Wrecked, Dismantled or Inoperative or Parts thereof as a Public Nuisance as submitted by: Thomas C. Cash - 475 West Church Street. Traffic Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 1 Deputy Director of Public Works Seanor reported staff received an appeal request from Thomas Cash regarding a Notice of Intention to Abate and Remove a Public Nuisance issued by Ukiah Police Officer Trent Taylor on June 4, 2003. The notice and subsequent list of the vehicles in question are referenced as Attachment "A" in the staff report. Mr. Cash filed an Abandoned Vehicle Appeal Request with the City Clerk on June 5, 2003, and this document is referred to as Attachment "B" in the staff report. A copy of the City Clerk's letter advising Mr. Cash of the public hearing is referenced as Attachment "C" in the staff report. Rick Seanor reported the Committee is required to visit the subject property and take appropriate action in accordance with Ukiah City Code, Sections 7600 through 7614. A copy of the Code is referred to as Attachment "D" in the staff report. He stated the intent of today's TEC meeting is to review, discuss, and hear public testimony concerning the matter. He drew attention to Code sections 7610 and 7611 that outline the procedures for conducting a public hearing relative to abandoned vehicle removal, stating the TEC has the authority to impose conditions or other necessary type of action concerning the issue of abandoned vehicles. Staff recommended the TEC consider the following actions: Deny the Appeal. Impose conditions on the removal of vehicles from the property in accordance with the City Code Section 7611. ' Order the vehicles to be removed from the property in accordance with City Code Section 7611. Rick Seanor noted Chapter 8 of the Code in accordance with a City Ordinance states: "That the accumulation and storage of abandoned, wrecked, dismantled or inoperative vehicles or parts thereof on private or public property, not including highways, is found to create a condition tending to reduce the value of the private property, to promote blight and deterioration, to invite plundering, to create fire hazards, to constitute an attractive nuisance creating a hazard to the health and safety of minors, to create a harborage for rodents and insects and to be injurious to the health, safety and general welfare." PUBLIC HEARING OPENED: 3:17 p.m. Officer Trent Taylor stated the Ukiah Police Department has been involved in a program throughout the City identifying abandoned, wrecked, dismantled or inoperative vehicles on private or public property considered to be a public nuisance according a City Ordinance. He stated the Notice has been issued to other City residents and the vehicles have been removed. Thomas Cash acknowledged the Notice, stating he intended to remove the three nuisance vehicles in question from the subject property. He filed an appeal request in order to provide testimony concerning his intentions and plans for subsequent action, as the process has taken more time than originally Traffrc Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 2 anticipated. He addressed each vehicle and the course of action he has taken to comply with the City Ordinance relevant to the process of removing the vehicles, noting not all of the vehicles are operable. He requested an extension of time for one month in which to make special arrangements for the removal of the vehicles. The Notice stated he had 10 days in which to remove the vehicles, so he filed an appeal entitling him to a hearing on this matter to assist him with finding solutions to the problem. A brief discussion followed regarding various types of agencies that would accept the vehicles once they were removed. It was noted the inoperable vehicle may have to be towed and other special arrangements made. Member Walker recommended the Committee consider allowing Mr. Cash until August 15 to make towing and other special arrangements concerning the removal of the vehicles. Kelley Coulter, San Francisco, stated he made a complaint to the Ukiah Police Department because the vehicles promote community blight. PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED: 3:26 p.m. ON A MOTION by Member Walker, seconded by Member Looney, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to grant Mr. Cash a 30-day extension until August 15, 2003, in which to make appropriate arrangements for removal of the three vehicles, as outlined in the staff report, and as discussed above. c. Discussion and possible regarding request from Grove Avenue residents regarding speeding vehicles on Grove Avenue. Deputy Director of Public Works Seanor reported staff received a request from concerned residents of Grove Avenue relative to the issue of speeding vehicles in the neighborhood. Attachment "A" of the staff report, the complainants' letter stated speeding vehicles present imminent danger to bicyclists, Pomolita students walking in crosswalks, children, adults, and pedestrians that frequent Todd Grove Park or walk and drive in the area, and pedestrians, bicycles and merging vehicular traffic on Dora and Grove Avenues where there are no stop signs. The concerned residents recommended consideration be given for implementation of a speeding mitigation program that may include appropriately placed stop signs, islands, speed humps, and traffic enforcement. Mr. Seanor further reported other attachments include photographs of the various intersections and general layout of the street. It was noted the existing infrastructure includes sidewalks on both sides of Grove Avenue, striped bike lanes on both sides of Grove Avenue from Bush Street to Live Oak Avenue, and curbside parking is provided on both sides of the street. The posted speed limit Traffic Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 3 on Grove Avenue is 30 mph and is consistent with the Engineering Survey and Traffic Investigation dated February 25, 2000. Staff recently conducted speed surveys at various times on Grove Avenue in accordance with the Caltrans Traffic Manual guidelines, and the results are consistent with the posted speed limit of 30 mph. Staff recommended no changes be made regarding the current posted speed limit, noting that speed limits on various City streets are reevaluated approximately every five years. He commented that the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System was reviewed, and it was determined that four collisions have occurred on Grove Avenue none of which were related to vehicular speeding during the period of January 1, 1999 through December 31, 2001, and no collision data is available for the period of January 1, 2002. Mr. Seanor stated a copy of the Caltrans Traffic Manual Policies and Warrants for Stop Signs and Yield Signs are included in the staff report, which states "Stop signs should not be used for speed control." Hazel Avenue, Spring and Dora Streets are posted with stop signs at the respective intersections on Grove Avenue, and the intersection of Grove Avenue and Bush Street is a multiway stop (four-way) intersection. He addressed the issue of children, adults, and senior residents frequently walking and driving on Grove Avenue, stating the 2003 California Vehicle Code provides that pedestrians are prohibited from walking in bicycles lanes where adequate sidewalk facilities exist. Existing sidewalks are available to pedestrians on both sides of the street for the entire length of Grove Avenue. Mr. Seanor suggested the TEC may want to consider painting the speed limit of 30 mph on the street surface, post the speed indicator radar trailer for additional education on the legal speed limit, continue to provide additional enforcement of the speed limit on Grove Avenue, request consideration of Grove Avenue in the Citywide Traffic Circulation Study, and research and determine appropriate traffic calming measures for Grove Avenue. Miles Gordon, Ukiah, noticed motorists reduced their speed when the City Police Department monitored Grove Avenue. A general discussion followed regarding the results of the traffic speed studies conducted for Grove Avenue. Mr. Seanor stated people should use better judgment and lower their speed limit to 25 mph when children are crossing the street to school. Miles Gordon reported the request to bring a resolution to the speeding problems on Grove Avenue was initiated after a traffic collision into a parked vehicle from a speeding citizen. This incident prompted the neighborhood to request the TEC discuss the problem of speeding on Grove Avenue in excess of 40 mph. Traffic Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 4 Mr. Seanor stated one of the speeding mitigation program requests was to implement stop signs where necessary. He noted again that according to the Caltrans Traffic Manual Policies and Warrants for Stop Signs and Yield Signs states, "Stop signs should not be used for speed control." Miles Gordon stated Grove Avenue is wide and, without traffic calming measures implemented, people tend to ignore the posted speed limit and drive faster. Grove Avenue serves as a main access to Todd Grove Park, Anton Stadium, the Golf Course, Pomolita School, and the Maple Avenue residential development. There is a yield sign at the intersection of Grove and Live Oak Streets that people often ignore and tend to speed up as they turn the corner from Live Oak onto Grove Avenue. He recommended the Committee, the neighborhood, and staff coordinate their efforts to further research the speeding problems on Grove Avenue for the purpose of finding appropriate traffic calming measures. Mr. Seanor stated the Citywide traffic study to be conducted will include review of circulation, traffic flow at key intersections, recommendations for stop signs, and other relative information to assist the City in appropriately addressing current and potential traffic problems. Member Looney stated printing the street with the posted speed limit does not necessarily make people slow down. Any street that minimizes the restriction to travel is the one used most frequently. A brief discussion followed regarding various types of traffic calming techniques, citing Clara Avenue as an example of ineffective traffic calming measures. Miles Gordon addressed various types of traffic calming treatments, noting many of the techniques would not be beneficial for Grove Avenue. He emphasized the importance of resolving the traffic problems so that the same issue does not have to frequently be revisited. He cautioned against implementing measures that may have some impact, but which would eventually become ineffective, causing the matter to be revisited. Member Looney stated the course of planning and implementing for appropriate traffic calming features/structures is time consuming in terms of conducting studies and design development. Chairman Kageyama stated traffic problems must be looked at Citywide rather than on astreet-by-street basis. Member Looney stated it is not a practical approach to make modifications to some streets without considering all the streets Citywide. A Citywide traffic study is important in terms of making appropriate assessments/decisions concerning potential changes and/or the implementation of traffic calming measures for all Traffic Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 5 streets as opposed to making decisions on astreet-by-street basis, since all streets correlate with one another, creating a Citywide network. He stated streets must be easily assessable in terms of maintenance and repairs, citing the bulb-outs and/or traffic calming measures implemented on School Street make it difficult for the Public Works Department to maintain, particularly for street sweeping. Member Lohse recommended the aforementioned issue be extended for 30 days in order for staff and neighborhood representatives to assess and make specific proposals for the City Council to review relative to the speeding concerns on Grove Avenue. Moreover, additional information is needed from the Citywide traffic study before this matter can propose effective measures and resolve the problem. Mikes Gordon emphasized the importance of establishing clear objectives and corresponding dates for when the project can be implemented. Member Harris suggested implementing temporary measures such as posting the speed indicator radar trailer and increasing traffic enforcement in the area, all of which may be of assistance until the speeding issue can be appropriately assessed. He did not the support the concept of coming back with a proposed plan within 30 days, as this would not be sufficient time to have the Citywide traffic study data collected and analyzed, the design methods established, and the cost analysis completed. Additionally, grant appropriations are contingent upon approval and subject to specific funding cycles. Member Lohse stated he would assist staff and Committee members with developing more comprehensive facts and figures, allowing for a more cohesive proposal. Mr. Seanor recommended Mr. Gordon work with his neighborhood in order to provide more information, comments, and alternative solutions. Structural changes to the street would be permanent, and so it is important that all input be considered from various types of sources. Member Looney stated the purpose of today's meeting was to introduce the matter to the Committee for consideration, comments, and recommendations concerning the potential approach for resolution. Member Lohse stated it may take time to assess the project issues in order to establish a very detailed plan and to make a recommendation to the City Council. He recommended better defining the method for attaining/identifying the criteria concerning what the neighborhood desires for traffic calming measures on Grove Street. Traffic Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 6 Member Looney stated it is important to keep in mind that the project must reflect a realistic approach based on the "whole picture rather than a piece of it." Member Harris stated traffic calming measures must also be examined for health and safety issues and traffic enforcement to reduce the potential for health/safety, noise and pollution hazards. Miles Gordon stated his intent was to introduce the problem with the understanding that a process of finding a resolution has begun. ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Lohse, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to continue the discussion regarding the Grove Avenue speeding concerns to the September 2003 TEC meeting, and in the interim for City staff to work with Miles Gordon to develop a potential program involving both the City and the neighborhood. Aiso, the Ukiah Police Department will be requested to increase the patrolling of Grove Avenue with the intent of eliminating some of the speeding vehicles. Member Lohse recommended an amendment to the above-referenced motion to include the posting of the speed indicator radar trailer on Grove Avenue. A brief discussion followed regarding traffic calming measures implemented for other communities. It was noted some of the measures may be effective in some communities and not in others. Miles Gordon stated the City has very valuable publications available addressing traffic and safety problems in neighborhoods. b. Discussion and possible action regarding request from MTA to establish new bus stops on Gobbi Street at South Oak Street. Mr. Seanor commented that one bus stop is located on the southeast corner next to a vacant lot and the other bus stop, located on the northwest corner, is next to a residence. He recommended MTA take a more proactive role in contacting the adjacent property owners to work out any details when changes in services are proposed that could affect neighborhoods. ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Looney, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to approve MTA's request to establish new bus stops on Gobbi Street at South Oak Street, as outlined in a memorandum to the TEC dated July 10, 2003, with the requirement that MTA contact and obtain comments from property owners adjacent to the proposed bus stops. VI. COMMITTEE MEMBER REPORTS There was no discussion concerning this agenda item. Traffrc Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 7 VII. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS There was no discussion concerning this agenda item. VIII. ADJOURNMENT There bein1g no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:43 p.m. i'~,r--- em ey ,Chairman '~"' / Cathy EI adly, Recordin ecretary Traffic Engineering Committee July 15, 2003 Page 8 CITY OF UKIAH MEMORANDUM DATE: September 11, 2003 TO: Traffic Engineering Committee FROM: Rick Seanor, Deputy Director of Public Works ~~ SUBJECT: Request for Ordinance Banning Segway from Sidewalks Agenda Item IV a. REQUEST: At the April 15, 2003 Traffic Engineering Committee (TEC) meeting there was extended discussion on issues related to Segway. At that meeting, the TEC requested additional research on the Segway and that the TEC consider the item at a future meeting. DISCUSSION: Attached for reference are the following: minutes from the TEC meeting of April 15, 2003, Ukiah Daily Journal article dated April 17, 2003, an email with a copy of an article from the Los Angeles Times dated July 6, 2003, and a copy of Resolution 2002-03 of the Mayor's Disability Council, City and County of San Francisco. Staff noted that there are several articles on the Internet on both sides of the Segway issue. Staff found that Segway purchase and use is more prevalent in large metropolitan cities. To date, staff is unaware of any Segway being used in Ukiah. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the TEC discuss the issue and determine whether recommendation of adoption of an ordinance is warranted at this time. Attachment cc: file exiting onto Main Street. Chairman Kageyama requested this item be placed on the May agenda, and asked Staff to research the area for any right-of-way or easements. City Engineer Steele asked Mr. Simental to forward a letter to the Traffic Engineering Committee explaining their concerns, observations, and requests. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS: NEW BUSINESS -~.. a. Discussion and possible action regarding request to adopt an ordinance banning the Se way Human Transporter from Sidewalks -Rick Seanor, Deputy Director of Public Works. Member Seanor reported that Captain Chris Dewey presented this item at the March 19, 2003 City Council meeting, regarding the possible adoption of an "Anti-Segway Human Transporter Ordinance." The City Council referred this item to the Traffic Engineering Committee for further evaluation. He stated the Segway Human Transporter has been designated as an electric personal assistive mobility device, or EPAMD. The EPAMD has been defined as aself-balancing, non-tandem, 2-wheeled device that can turn in place, and is designed to transport only one person. The operating speed is up to 12.5 mph and is approximately four and one-half times as fast as pedestrian walking speed. The current market price of a Segway is approximately $5,000. Senate Bill No. 1918, Section 21282 gives local entities the authority to regulate Segway use and states "State agencies may limit or prohibit the time, place, and manner of use on state property." This law specifies that a "pedestrian" includes the user of an EPAMD. Jane Kardas, 810 Maple Avenue, stated the City of Fort Bragg and the City and County of San Francisco have banned the Segway from sidewalks. There have been demonstrations in Sacramento to ban the Segways from sidewalks. She and Betty Green have traveled from county to county to support banning Segway from sidewalks. She stated the transporter is not appropriate and is not safe for sidewalks, and sidewalks are not wide enough to accommodate the Segway. When in operation, the Segway cannot be heard when approaching. She noted that she and Ms. Green are legally blind and would not be able to see or hear a transporter approaching. Betty Green, 1240 North Pine Street # 12, stated the State Law classifies the Segway as a pedestrian, giving them the right to travel anywhere a pedestrian goes. The company is trying to market the Segway as a wheelchair, however, in her opinion, a disabled individual would not be able to operate the transporter. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMIT-rEE APRIL 15, 2003 Chairman Kageyama asked Ms. Kardas and Ms. Green if they have witnessed in operation. Ms. Kardas and Ms. Green responded negatively. Ms. Kardas expressed because she is legally blind, her major concern is not being able to see or hear the transporter approaching her. Ms. Green stated the Segway is unsafe for disabled individuals, children, and elderly. Member Seanor clarified the maximum speed is 12.5 mph (20km/h) with a platform height of 8-inches (20 cm). Member Harris expressed a concern of the transporter being allowed in congested areas and on sidewalks. Sidewalks would have to be 12-feet in width to allow navigation of the transporter around pedestrians. If allowed, individuals would have to be responsible in the operation of the Segway. City Engineer Steele stated Segways are not allowed in bike lanes. Member Walker stated the State law requires cities and counties to allow the Segway on sidewalks. He is opposed to Segways being allowed on sidewalks and favors an ordinance restricting them from sidewalks. He expressed that 12.5 mph is too fast for sidewalks and the safety of pedestrians. He is not opposed to them being used in bike lanes. Member Cotroneo stated he has not seen the Segway in operation, however he is opposed to the transporter being allowed on sidewalks. He suggested the City Council write a letter to the State addressing the concerns expressed by the community and allow Segway to be used in bicycle lanes. Chairman Kageyama expressed he has not seen the Segway in operation and could not make a decision to ban Segway from sidewalks based on how the community would use it in terms of respect or abuse. The manufacturer recommends the transporter be operated by individuals 16 years and older. The transporter will allow individuals to get outside, facilitate mobility for individuals who have difficulty in walking or cannot drive, and could be an alternative to vehicle transportation. Member Looney inquired whether the City would be in violation of ADA laws if Segway is banned from sidewalks. He suggested additional research on Segways to determine how they would effect the ADA law. He is opposed to banning the transporter from sidewalks based on assumptions that individuals would abuse it. He noted that the Committee is making a recommendation on Segways, which have not been seen within our Community. TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMITTEE APRIL 15, 2003 Page 3 of 5 ON A MOTION by Member Cotroneo, seconded by Member Looney, it was carried by voice vote that the Traffic Engineering Committee staff research the use of the Segway and bring all information back to the Committee at the July meeting. AYES: Members Cotroneo, Harris, Looney, Seanor, and Chairman Kageyama. NOES: Member Walker. ABSENT: Members Lohse and Pilant. OLD BUSINESS a. Discussion and possible action regarding issuance of commercial truck parkins on Seminary Avenue -Captain Chuck Yates, Ukiah Fire Department. (See Ordinance No. 1044 . Member Seanor reported that at the October 15, 2002 meeting, Fire Marshal Chuck Yates requested the restriction of oversize commercial vehicle parking on both sides of east- and westbound Seminary Avenue, because the ambulance and emergency vehicles are unable to safely drive through when in route to a medical aide or fire response. The emergency vehicles have to back up on Oak Street to take an alternate route. The on- street parking of oversize commercial trucks occurs at all hours of the day and night. California Vehicle Code Section 22507 states, "local authorities may, by ordinance or resolution, prohibit or restrict the stopping, parking or standing of vehicles, including, but not limited to, vehicles that are six-feet or more in height within 100-feet of any intersection, on certain streets or highways, or portions thereof, during all or certain hours of the day." The City Council adopted this Ordinance at the May 7, 2003 City Council meeting. Staff will be presenting to the City Council a resolution identifying specific locations. Chuck Yates, Fire Marshal, is requesting that Seminary Avenue be included in the resolution for vehicle height restriction. The alternate route for emergency vehicles would be to exit onto Oak Street and travel one block north to Clay Street or one block south to Mill Street. Parking is restricted to one side on Clay Street, and there is on-street parking on both sides of Mill Street. However, Seminary Avenue is the shortest route for medical and fire responses. The median, Seminary Avenue gives the emergency vehicles aone- way lane to negotiate, versus two opposing lanes on Mill Street. ON A MOTION by Member Walker, seconded by Member Cotroneo, the Traffic Engineering Committee recommends to the City Council that the restriction of oversize commercial vehicle parking on both sides of east- and westbound Seminary Avenue be included in the resolution, and re-visit this issue in one year to determine if there are further problems. Member Walker withdrew his motion. Discussion followed regarding the possibility of installing a "No Parking, Fire Lane" sign on TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMITTEE APRIL 15, 2003 f~ Tyto N m ~/~, m V ~ > Vl U t C 'O O ~h F /Il z••+ ~_c m ~i/ a`~i a~Oi a itl ~ 4 ° o o ° ~ 4 v ~.~ Q 6 F Est.S~°' m r^ ° ,~ o n v ai, h Ml `n ~.. o au'v'c one r cv~ v :: ,~=a E V N T cJ C' 3 C Lai ~.-' ov3°. 1] ~ T W1L P .-am°3o ~'~v m en TC pt 01 c .. ~Nt ~- °o .~ m C_ ~ 0 O cw ~>.V v ni N m E wE o y, V N J ~onrO r>itis y ~9 °`-'~~E~-3 -~I v~.. .. v.~or, v „,Q ~" ~ N ~~ cJ v ~ O o u a o a ~~ y G O A X. ® ~-L V 1 O V n v~'c ° vs c O_ y. .~ v ~ < a .- :n ~ E ~ 3 4 ~ _E c i;~n~ a -` c o ~ i F rr^^ c ~ ~ 5 v ° o ~_t~ °~ ~ o V1 ~ c n r .- vi H ~ v r q' ~ WO 'O L V Ol~~ ~ E ~ a~[L .E ~Nb c.ya a,v uO. vL CL 11- v o ~. •. _. -.c .°i° °1 3 u n ~o 3.u $ o c ~ ~ a~ WQ~v~~vL ~_ .~: V G j `_ .U L'O LL V V ~ N > W ~L~ o N c ~Ovluo.~C~~ FL -E~°` ~_ ~ z ou°~ ° ~ 6L N O ° L ~ ~ ~~ a.- Q ry~;v ~ `. ~b c r O~ = U O y 6 _ v ~L cos om ,, v (- W ,p L ~ C j V Z wv3vEM O c ° cF'_. Vv> = o A E , ° s m7Y LnC4.: W T.-J ~ O'O f/i t~ ao E°OV~= '' c~ E o E ~ E mi` U~o~o ~raffic ConrinuedJrom Page J whedmr i[ was safe far Segway users [o be on the city's sidewalks. Jane Kardas and Betty Green were the only two members of [he public to attend the meeting. Kardas explained that she is partially blind, and that Green is com- pletely blind. Both felt Segways were dangerous and should he banned from the a'ity. Anybody can gc[ on that," Kardas said of the electric vehicles. "You can be a 2- year-old and get on it; you can be 90 and get on it..I[ is not appropriate at all for them to be on [he sidewalk." While the legal speed is 12- and-a-half miles an hour, added Green, "the machine will go 20 miles an hour." Seanor later suggested this was incorrect. "Il dces say a maximum speed of l2-and-a- half miles an hour," he explained, "and in parenthe- sis, 20 kilometers an hour," which means [he Segways maximum speed was, in fact, I2-and-a-half miles an hour. Even so, the women were not reassured. "I just can't imagine this obstacle coming down the street silently toward you..." said Kardas. "How are you going to corral this type of thing? 1 think it's just better not [o start it " When [hose present were asked if anyone had any data as to Segway-related injuries or accidents, no one did. "One ran into a marble wall in San Francisco and crocked it, and I guess that's all San Francisco needed to ban them;' Kardas said. She noted That Fon Bragg had also banned the devices. Comn littee Chairman Ben Kageyama suggested That per baps talk o(a ban in Ukiah was premature. "My take on this is we real ly haven't seen it...Tu judge it now is like u pre-emptivc strike ou Ibis new tcchnolo- gy," he s:ud, adding that since Ihcy cost nhoul $5,0(10 each, he doubled [h li~ would lx mmy chit ben riding around on Then 1. "fI conks down m a matter of accountability and respon- sibdily of the user,° Kage- yama continued. "You e people with driver's lice _s and they're not responsi- ble...You are always going [o have Iha[. Frankly I'd rather get hit by a Segway than ,a car...I think we should give it a chance to xe if there are prob- lems associated widt [hem....I would be hesitant to restrict that technology even before we have a chance to see how i[ is used." Ukiah Police Capt. Dan Walker argued that [he price of the machines would even- tually drop, which mean[ they might become mare numer- ous. I{e remained opposed to the Segways, at least in terms of allowing [hem on side- walks. °If they were allowed within bike lanes, I would be for that,' Walker added. "From a law enforcement perspective;' he continued, "1 don't wan[ my officers sitting down watching Segways...They've got better things [o do." The captain compared i[ to having an elephant walk around downtown. "I don't have to think twice [o know I don'[ wan[ iC' "i think [here is a lo[ of potential good for [his device;' responded Kage- yama. "Get people outside, get people who can't walk to [ravel long distances..." "As a disabled woman," countered Kardas, "I can't imagine anyone in a wheel- chair wanting to be on il; I can't imagine anyone wllo was blind wanting to be on iC' Jim Looney suggested that even if those who were blind or in wheelchairs had no use -r ~ c ~ ~eoc v s~ °' ~~" moocy ..3> -'oUCm y n L c u m E c o 9 o m y '0 m_.., m m. v ,~ av V O,L. 6~ aOi LL O.L. t9 ~ o c C._UCTL vNU~ Vb ONL v.°o mJu°. sovgum 3,u co~ t L m 3° =EV Vrn N : ~ ,. N L C ~ V_ V p O V t di W O 0p V V ~.~ u c n'- on ~ E ''.~.~3ov L~VOUOO ~'~.an aL°Em~-°w°L=°= c~EN, ao° a°O ~ oN F~ c c ~ n o.t ~O ~S._atl ~ ~4'' o E ~ ~,~ t o~ N u ~ 5 oos~E v. >..-F-Eo E o ~L°`o v ~ J~° E coy^c D~ o t 3~ oy o ro o s Cyyv° o. o'._' O J 6U ~ V 0. ,~ V U m~ v, °.5E ~ ~mE og.t~~ ooEm m p~Tr~ E °:eQ ~s mp,~e ~5 Dyma cw'~E O Q 9 V CI U z L'~cv~mN ~,~y ocm, mou LJtt E E m~ uLen'." m-O tom-.. >3 ~'L c rage i ui ~ From To: Sent: '~uesday, July 08, 2003 7:07 AM Subject: Cities' Choice: Make Way, or Do Away With Segways Cities' Choice: Make Way, or Do Away With Segways Rather than ban the transportation device, Pasadena has come up with a compromise. By Hilda Munoz Los Angeles Times Staff Writer July 6, 2003 While gliding down Orange Grove Boulevard on what looks like a lazge push lawnmower, Joseph Chiu makes riding the Segway look easy. But watching him leave his Pasadena home on the two-wheeled battery- operated vehicle is like watching an ice skater do a pirouette on asphalt. In an electric dance of loops and spins, the 32-year-old computer engineer smoothly maneuvers his way through the front door and glides down his driveway, past the 1992 Mitsubishi 3000 GT he razely drives. "It's wonderful for people like me. I work and live in a small area," he said. "It's good here [in California, because it's sunny." He and about 10 other local Segway owners -some of whom meet occasionally to compaze notes on their experiences and give curious onlookers demonstrations -hail the new zero-emission transportation device as a technological and environmentally friendly advance in transportation. But for others, the Segway, which can run up to 12 mph, is a potential hazard. Some cities have banned their use, while others aze working on restrictions. In simple terms, five gyroscopes sense which way the rider is leaning and signal two embedded computers that control the wheels. Leaning forward makes the device roll forwazd. Leaning back makes it roll back. Standing straight up brings it to a stop. Twisting the turning ring on the left handlebar makes it turn. "It's the first time there's ever been digital transportation; it has a computer that senses what's going on," said Peter iNova, 59, a creative director for Metavision in Burbank. "I think it's lived up to and exceeded expectations." 7/8/200 . »o.. _..,_ ., Like some of the other local Segway owners, Chiu is not shy about familiarizing people with the device. He created a Web site promoting the Segway, http://www.pasadenasegway.com ,where people can sign up for a free orientation. INova and other owners glide azound fish-finned custom automobiles at Bob's Big Boy in Toluca Lake during the classic car shows on Fridays and show anyone who's willing how to ride the Segway. The device was unveiled in December 2001 as the mysterious new creation of noted inventor Dean Kamen. For nearly a year, he kept people wondering about "Ginger," the company's internal code name for the invention. It went on sale to the public in November 2002 for $4,950 on Amazon.com. The life expectancy is up to five years, and the Segway can run for 10 to 15 miles on a full chazge. Since getting his in March -when the company began shipping them - Chiuhas received mixed reviews from pedestrians and drivers who see him on his daily 3%z-mile commute or running errands. Some people aze curious. Others think the gadget is meant to replace walking and call him lazy -that one really gets to him. "I'll get that from people in their cazs," he said. "I'm at least standing up." "The lazy people it's replacing aze the ones that aze sitting in their cazs during those small trips;' said iNova. "Standing around isn't the same amount of exercise as walking, but it's not that far off. You can't get on one of these things without doing some kind of exercise." iNova said the Segway would be good for people who now use walkers or crutches. But there aze those who believe the machine is dangerous. In the name of pedestrian safety, San Francisco and La Mirada have banned the vehicles on city sidewalks. "Our sidewalks aren't able to accommodate Segways and pedestrians," La Mirada City Manager Andrea Travis said soon after the City Council enacted the ban. "There's a potential conflict with pedestrians, because people azen t able to move out of their way quick enough." Pasadena went from considering a total ban to reaching a compromise that would allow Segways on most of its streets. The City Council introduced an ordinance Monday asking that the police chief regulate Segways, primazily by establishing hours and locations of operation, said Pasadena Councilman Steve Haderlein. 7/8/20 rage ~ ur ~ The ordinance exempts individuals with handicapped placards "To me, the ordinance is a balanced approach that gives the police chief the ability to regulate the device in the name of safety but keeps the Segway viable to Pasadena residents seeking mobility options," he said inane-mail. Some Segway owners believe that city officials aze judging too quickly without really understanding the machine. "I was taught at a very young age that you don't say you don't like asparagus unless you've tasted it," said Donald LaFavor, a Segway owner from Tujunga. LaFavor also attends the classic caz show in Toluca Lake and said he has given about 500 demonstrations. Although Chiu insists that people aze used to seeing him on his Segway, which he refers to as his horseless chariot, people pointed and stazed as he rode to work one recent day, a whiny whining sound emanating from the spinning contraption. A man entering a coffeehouse pointed and yelled, "Segway!" People aze less spellbound by the whirring gizmo at his workplace; more than half the people in the building have tried it. No one glances up as he makes his way on the device right to his desk. Prasanna Adhikari, 33, a systems engineer who sits across from Chiu, admires the technology, but has his reservations about the device. "The Segway itself is pretty cool, but I tell him it's a little too big, too bulky for sidewalks," he said. "It's good for specialty use." 7/8/200 Mayor's Disability Commission: Resol- '~ns_Segway 1 sfgov ~ citizen ~ business ~ government visitor ~ online services ~ search go Mayors Disabi itY Council » Resolutions The Mayor's Disability Council Resolutions_Segway Mayor's Disability Council City and County of San Francisco Resolution # 2002-03 Resolution urging the Mayor and Board of Supervisors to preserve and promote pedestrian safety by banning the use of Segway Scooters on San Francisco sidewalks. Whereas on October 18, 2002, the Mayor's Disability Council (MDC) held a public hearing on the use of Segway Scooters on San Francisco Sidewalks, and Whereas, public comment consisted almost entirely of concerns for pedestrian safety and objections to allowing fast moving, virtually silent machines to share our sidewalks with pedestrian traffic, and Whereas, the only testimony in favor of operating Segway Scooters on Sidewalks was provided by a single representative of the Segway Corporation, and Whereas, the members heard testimony, that Segway Scooters pose a hazard to the health and safety of blind, disabled, and senior members of our community, and Whereas, sidewalk safety is already threatened by the unchecked use of scooters, skateboards, bicycles and parked cars therein, Now therefore, be it resolved that the Mayor's Disability Council supports the proposed Ban of the Segway Scooter on San Francisco Sidewalks, and urges the Mayor and Board of Supervisors to support the proposed ban in order to preserve safe paths of travel for pedestrians with and without disabilities, and to thereby allow all of San Francisco's citizens to navigate San Francisco Sidewalks with dignity and safety. contact us I accessibility policy I disclaimer I Privacy policy Copynght u 2003 City Fi Counry of San Ranns<o. All rights rrscrved Page 1 of 1 http://sfgov.org/site/sfmdc~age.asp?id=5819 9/11 /200 CITY OF UKIAH MEMORANDUM DATE: September 11, 2003 TO: Traffic Engineering Committee FROM: Rick Seanor, Deputy Director of Public Works ~,~ SUBJECT: Parking near 605 North State Street Agenda item IV b. REQUEST: At the June 17, 2003 Traffic Engineering Committee (TEC) meeting, staff presented a report regarding a request from Michelle Leoni, Mountanos Properties, 605 North State Street to consider restricting parking along the property frontage. Ms. Leoni requested that a section of red curb be extended south from the business driveway approximately eight feet. In addition, Ms. Leoni requested that the remaining curb side parking along the North State Street frontage of Mountanos Properties be designated 24 minute parking by green curb painting and signage. According to Ms. Leoni, large trucks often park along this curb frontage and create a site visibility problem for drivers leaving the Mountanos Properties parking lot. Jim Looney, Public Works Superintendent, informed the TEC that he would paint the standard length red curb at the transitions from the sidewalk to the driveway serving Mountanos Properties. In addition, the TEC requested staff to contact Larry DeKnoblough regarding enforcement of time-limited parking at the subject location. DISCUSSION: Staff spoke to Larry DeKnoblough regarding this matter. Mr. DeKnoblough stated that enforcement at this location would be unlikely. Staff also spoke to Dot Gialdini, Parking Enforcement Officer. Ms. Gialdini informed staff that the subject location is outside the boundary of the parking district and that regular enforcement would be unlikely due to requirements for enforcing parking restrictions within the parking district. RECOMMENDATION: Staff is submitting this report for review and discussion by the Traffic Engineering Committee (TEC). Staff recommends against establishing a 24-minute parking zone at this location since parking enforcement would not occur on a regular basis. cc: file Sent By: MENOOCINO TRANSIT AUTt. .LTY; i ate ~To: Fr: Re: 7074621760; Sep•6~-~3 10:31 AM, Page 2) TFr: mt . 9-1lo2vv3 ~9enc(a Ltest 1/q. serving Mendocino County since 1976 Mendocino Transit Authority MEMO September 9, 2003 Traffic Engineering Committe Doug Pilant, Assistant General Manager Bus Stop(s) at Gobbi/Oak Streets here are currently no designated bus stops on Gobbi Street between State and fora Streets. MTA Transit Vehicle Operators have reported a large demand for passengers to board and deboard transit vehicles along Gobbi Street. Further research on this matter has determined that most passengers either live in the ~teighborhood or wish to shop at Rite Aid and other local businesses. i ~rooosed Solution t+ATA proposes the establishment of two bus stops at the intersection of Oak and ?Gobbi Streets, see Attachment A. Stop # 1 would be 50 feet west of the Rite Aid harking lot entrance and Stop # 2 would be 50 feet east of the Gobbi and Oak intersection. These proposed locations utilize curbs that are designated as a ''no parking zone". ~ummarv This proposal would ensure that residents living in the neighborhood as well as they bus riders would have safe and convenient access to the MTA transit vehicles. i Sent By: MENOOCINO TRANSIT AUTH~..TY; 7074621760; r x f (- [rte Y (,e,bbr ~ staP~si ~v6 Std Sep-9-~~ 10:32AM; ~~}-(-ac~nmevt-~ . .~ 1 W as.!~ M 4f-K..a( g0.w~ i~ c nlo-~- {~, s~ule_ - Page 3/3 Tr«'~r~ Ena~ neerivig Cnma~i ~.~ -~~ fn~-.r~Rs -//spoke - J'j~ bariM.~ 7'ra/h Sid~a`KS- - 91ly zvo3 ~v~- 5~y ~~ b~l~e~~s ~~-~w~ s~.~~ F+ gra y9 ! ~ l~ae_ _ b~n„~(~ s~ was ~,w,e - C~f~f 9r9ani -~~,- SI~~ ~rv>rt 5/aGiritr~5 5~ w r M tTai'rl y ~ S~'w.r,~, (Z , 5.n~~ - fB0 ~~ T6~'~ (~{ kia/~`s 5 i dPsvc I ~5 `f~ b . Per L~1'II'1 ~ Obi l bl~ G~'ad IoU~_ pa//~ n~i~vt~ G~ ~'~if't, Gl'U}'b paint rev( G~ y~i ~rGrh ariYe - \ Pain+ nvr}lvr-,,,r,~yf tierr~t ~e~w ~~ ~~J een -(-~r.~e ~oC~ en O~f1