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HomeMy WebLinkAbouttecp_012004TRr.rFIC ENGINEERING COMMIT , cE UKIAH CIVIC CENTER Conference Room No. 3 300 Seminary Avenue Ukiah, California 95482 TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2004 3:00 P.M. AGENDA I. CALL TO ORDER: Cotroneo, Harris, Lohse, Martin, Pilant, Seanor, Walker, and Chairman Kageyama II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: December 17, 2003 III. 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 V. NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion and possible action regarding MTA bus stop at North State Street and Gibson Street. b. Discussion and possible action regarding MTA bus stop at North Coast Opportunities (NCO), North State Street at Henry Street. c. Discussion and possible action regarding letter of support for grant application funding for programmable solar powered speed zone signs. (verbal report) d. Discussion and possible action regarding proposed Class 2 bike lanes on Oak Manor Drive. VI. COMMITTEE MEMBER REPORTS VII. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS VIII. ADJOURNMENT •ina Ballard at 463-6203 if you are unable to attend the mee ikiah complies with ADA requirements and will attempt to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities upon request. Minutes TRAFFIC ENGINEERING COMMITTEE December 17, 2003 Members Present Ben Kageyama, Chairman Doug Pilant Mike Harris Joe Martin Rick Seanor Others Present None Staff Present Diana Steele, Director of Public Works/C Cathy Elawadly, Recording Secretary The meeting was called to order by Conference Room No. 4, Ukiah Civic California. Members Absent ity Engineer Kevin Cotroneo Dave Lohse Dan Walker Chairman Kageyama at 3:00 p.m. in Center, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: September 16, 2003 ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Pilant, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to approve the September 16, 2003 minutes, as submitted. III. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS No one from the audience came forward. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS: IV. OLD BUSINESS V. NEW BUSINESS a. Discussion and possible action regarding crosswalks Deputy Director of Public Works Seanor reported the TEC Committee has, in the past, discussed feasible approaches for enhancing the visibility of crosswalks in the community. Public Works Superintendent Jim Looney proposed the installation of high visibility crosswalks on State Street north of Low Gap Road and south of Gobbi Street. Mr. Looney also proposed the removal of three crosswalks at "T" intersections by removing the north crosswalk at each location. Currently there are two crosswalks across State Street at each of the three locations. The three crosswalk locations include Evans, Ford, and Clara Streets. Attachment "A" of the staff report references other City streets with crosswalks at "T" intersections. Attachment "B" of the staff report graphically demonstrates Traffic Engineering Committee December 17, 2003 Page 1 how two-way reflective clear/white pavement markers on the outer edge of the crosswalk line could be installed, and this procedure would include placing two in line with the center double lines, one in the center of lane no.1 between the wheel path, one in line with no. 1 and no. 2 lane lines, one in the center between the wheel path of lane no. 2, and one at the outer edge of lane no. 2. Crosswalk striping is comprised of reflective paint or thermal markings, and the reflective markers would provide "raised" visibility enhancement. Director of Public Works Steele stated the intent would be to install the two- way reflective markers in line with the lane delineators or in the middle of the lane so that the raised markers would not be in the wheel paths. It was noted the reflective markers should be placed parallel to the striping along the entire length of the crosswalk. Member Seanor advised that the City Engineer has requested recommendations from the TEC regarding the installation of flexible crosswalk signs. He referred to Attachment "C" of the staff report that provides information relative to the flexible crosswalk signs. Other communities are presently utilizing the signs that are designed to alert motorists to yield to pedestrians where delineated. A brief discussion followed regarding the most effective locations for such signs, as well as the problems and associated costs with repairs when vehicles hit them. Member Seanor referred to Chairman Kageyama's copy of a study on "Advance Yield Markings" for crosswalks provided in Attachment "D" of the staff report. The concept involves the painting of triangles that essentially create a visual separation between the crosswalk and the yield markings. In conjunction with the triangle pavement markings, there is a sign on the side of the road advising the motorists to stop at that location for pedestrians to proceed in the crosswalk. He emphasized the importance for motorists to have clear visibility of crosswalks. The underlying principle behind advance stop lines is that they reduce the screening effect of vehicles yielding to pedestrians by causing the vehicles to stop further back. The study indicates that advance stop lines used in conjunction with signs directing motorists to yield at an advance stop line reduce the number of motor vehicle/pedestrian accidents at multilane crosswalks with an uncontrolled approach. It was noted the study was conducted in another country and it may be problematic to implement a system that is different than the crosswalk standards in this country or that differ from community to community. Member Martin advised there is a like system to the one discussed above on Talmage Road and State Street where the stop line is placed in advance of the crosswalk. Traffic Engineering Committee December 17, 2003 Page 2 Member Seanor stated the southbound, South State Street stop bar was painted in relation to the way the traffic loops were installed. The stop bar was painted to coincide with the traffic signal loop and is therefore a few feet in advance of the crosswalk line. Chairman Kageyama stated the study and treatments implemented were intended to address multi-lane streets. Member Seanor referred to Attachment "E" that addresses the adopted guidelines for installation and signage for diagonally hatched crosswalk. With the exception of the section of State Street between Norton Street and Gobbi Street, which is posted 25 mph, the remainder of State Street has a speed zone posted for a minimum of 30 mph. The criteria concerning the location for installation of diagonally hatched crosswalk markings include arterial streets and high volume collectors with three or more lanes and speeds of 30 mph and greater at higher volume pedestrian crossings, at school crossings, at mid-block and non- signalized crossings, and at non-stop controlled crossings meeting the aforementioned criteria. The installation of such crosswalks is enhanced by installing zebra stripes diagonally at 60 degrees to the crosswalk bars with the striping consisting of an alternating pattern of equal width and spacing. The associated signage would include either florescent, yellow green for school crossings, or yellow for pedestrian crossings in the respective locations where diagonally hatched crosswalks are installed. Mr. Seanor commented about the proposals and supported the request to remove duplicate crosswalks to provide a single, focused, preferred crossing location for pedestrians. Additionally, he noted staff did not favor installation of the reflective markers in the locations where bicycles typically travel on the streets, as the raised markers could potentially be a hazard, although the concept of installing reflective pavement markers parallel to and in advance of each crosswalk would provide enhanced visibility of the crosswalks. Implementation of the flexible crosswalk sign may be a way to attract additional attention to crosswalks. Attachment "F" provides examples of the various types of pavement markers/traffic lines and typical details for centerlines (two lane highways), lanelines (multilane highways), no passing zones for one direction and no passing zones for two directions. These markers are considered acceptable standards by Caltrans. Caltrans "Detail 22" has been applied to State Street and includes a combination of traffic striping and reflective pavement markers where the total width of the centerline striping is 11 inches and the outside dimension of the pavement markers is 23 inches. There is room to post a 12-inch flexible crosswalk sign on the centerline stripe based on the configuration of the striping and raised markers. Motorists, however, may shy away from the flexible crosswalk sign out of fear of hitting it. Traffic Engineering Committee December 17, 2003 Page 3 Staff commented on the concept of the "Advance Yield Markings," stating implementation of such a treatment may take drivers some time to become accustomed to, since they are educated to stop at the crosswalk line or stop bar. Member Harris supported the proposal of removing duplicate crosswalks, and addressed the implementation of diagonally hatched crosswalks, commenting that the proposed reflective pavement markers would enhance crosswalk visibility. He addressed the concept of flexible crosswalk signs that may exacerbate liability and/or other related issues for drivers. Member Seanor advised that the recommendation for putting in diagonally hatched crosswalks north of Low Gap Road and south of Gobbi Street would be to comply with the 30 mph speed limit guidelines. Director of Public Works Steele stated that motorists anticipate pedestrians will be in the downtown core, and the concept is to add high visibility crosswalks outside the core where the traffic moves faster. Member Pilant commented crosswalk reflectors would enhance visibility during bad weather conditions. A brief discussion followed regarding use of flashing reflectors or systems with control devices, noting it may be advantageous to use crosswalk treatments that are within the State guidelines. Chairman Kageyama proposed placing "yield to pedestrian signs" in the medians, giving the driver a visual cue that he/she is approaching a crosswalk. Director of Public Works Steele stated it may be beneficial to review information from the Institute of Transportation Studies concerning the crosswalks. A general discussion followed regarding other locations having two sets of crosswalks and why Mr. Looney identified Evans, Ford, and Clara as the streets recommended for crosswalk removal. Member Seanor stated one reason may be related to the lack of ADA access accommodations. ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Pilant, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to recommend to the Director of Public Works/City Engineer removal of the northern crosswalks at Evans and State Streets, Ford and State Streets, and Clara and State Streets. Chairman Kageyama acknowledged the removal of the aforementioned crosswalks, noting he may not be in favor of removing crosswalks at similar T- Traffic Engineering Committee December 17, 2003 Page 4 intersections for other City streets. There is a benefit to having crosswalks at both intersections to assist blind or other visually impaired persons. Such a person may not realize he/she must go to the other side of the street before crossing the intersection without some type of technical and/or mechanical warning device. He noted one positive facet for removal of the crosswalks is they are not located in the downtown core. Director of Public Works Steele will determine whether removal of the crosswalks discussed in Attachment "A" of the staff report is necessary. She will advise the Committee of her decision. ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Pilant, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to request more information for the installation of crosswalks on State Street. ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Pilant, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to recommend additional information and review of studies made concerning the installation of reflective pavement markers to identify crosswalks. ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Pilant, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to request additional information regarding the installation of flexible crosswalk signs. ON A MOTION by Member Harris, seconded by Member Pilant, it was carried by an all AYE voice vote of the members present to request more information regarding the installation of "Advance Yield Markings" for crosswalks. A brief discussion followed pertinent to traffic calming and/or control measures in correlation with crosswalks. There was discussion concerning the traffic study currently being conducted for the City that will provide statistical information relevant to traffic circulation, problems with congestion at key intersections, and recommendations concerning potential improvements to City streets and intersections. Director of Public Works Steele indicated the City plans to submit an application for grant funding to implement solar-powered speed indicator signs as a traffic calming measure near schools. This may be a good candidate for Safe Routes to School funds. Staff would appreciate a letter of support from the TEC to accompany the application. VI. COMMITTEE MEMBER REPORTS Member Pilant advised of a hazardous condition involving an elevated curb and storm drain at the corner of Gibson and State Streets. Traffic Engineering Committee December 17, 2003 Page 5 Member Martin advised that he received notice of this condition and will make the appropriate repairs. VII. MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS a. Update on Segway demonstration. Member Seanor commented regarding a Segway demonstration that was recently held for TEC members, staff, City Councilmembers, and concerned citizens. He noted the Committee recently voted to ban Segway from sidewalks in Ukiah. He commented on the Segway's operational capabilities and technical elements. He recommended that as more information and statistical input has been made available regarding the Segway that this item be agendized for informational purposes and for possible reconsideration of its use on sidewalks. It was noted the Segway is a new product and it may be some time before one is seen in this community. It is important for the TEC to keep current on its use and potential success in other communities. Member Harris stated the State legislature allowed pedestrian use of Segways on sidewalks rather than in bicycle lanes and/or streets. Other jurisdictional policies allow Segway use on sidewalks and pathways as referenced in the staff report documents. Moreover, some cities in California allow Segway use on sidewalks with certain restrictions while a few communities have completely banned its use on sidewalks. Due to several members of the TEC not being present, it was agreed to continue this discussion to a future meeting. Member Martin stated the former tenants at 860 Waugh Lane used some of the curb for loading purposes, and inquired whether it is possible to eliminate the loading zone designations since the business is no longer at this location. He stated the parking accommodations are very limited in this area. Member Harris recommended that no decision be made until the new tenant addresses the matter. Chairman Kageyama recommended the issue be agendized for discussion and a staff report prepared. Member Martin inquired whether the "no parking" signs can be eliminated at the Creekside Village Apartments on Waugh Lane. He has observed that Waugh Lane is wide enough to accommodate parking in this area. Member Harris recommended this issue be agendized for discussion and a staff report prepared. Traffic Engineering Committee December 17, 2003 Page 6 Director of Public Works Steele commented the traffic study consultants intend to have a workshop concerning their work and interested TEC members will be invited to attend. VIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:42 p.m. Ben Kageyama, Chairman Cathy Elawadly, Recording Secretary Traffic Engineering Committee December 17, 2003 Page 7 ~}GEN~R ZT~M Via. serving Mendocino County since 19 MEMO Date: December 15, 2003 ~~~~~ To: Traffic Engineering Committee Fr: Doug Pilant, Assistant General Manager Re: North State and Gibson Bus Stop Problem The current designated southbound bus stop at the intersection of North State Street and Gibson is causing physical damage to MTA transit vehicles and needs to be relocated. The bus stop is located 25-feet south of the crosswalk. MTA transit vehicle operators are unable to use the bus stop because the bottoms of the doors scrap the curb -especially when the bus has passengers on board. In addition, when the rear tires rub along the curb there is a drain with metal protruding that causes damage to the tires and sometimes results in blow- outs. Further research on this matter has determined that this bus stop should be relocated to a more appropriate location. Proposed Solution MTA proposes that the North State/Gibson bus stop be moved approximately 358 -feet north of the current location to the Ukiah Community Center (UCC). The proposed bus stop location would be approximately 200 -feet south of the North State/Low Gap intersection, see Attachment A. The proposed location would utilize curbs that are designated as a "no parking" zone. MTA has discussed this matter with the management and staff at the UCC and they have concluded that this stop would better serve their clients. MTA is currently transporting between 50 and 60 people per day between the UCC and Methodist Church. Summary This proposal would ensure that bus riders would have safe and convenient access to and from MTA transit vehicles. Mendocino Transit Authority ~_ .~ `~~ s~r ~r~,4 ~, b serving Mendocino County since 19 76 MEMO Date: December 15, 2003~',,~~ To: Traffic Engineering Committee ~~G`jCJ Fr: Doug Pilant, Assistant General Manager Re: NCO Bus Stop Problem The current designated northbound bus stop at the intersection of North State Street and Henry is unsafe and needs to be relocated. The bus stop is located 25-feet north of the crosswalk and is also a congested area. MTA Transit Vehicle Operators have reported several incidents regarding passenger and driver safety. Further research on this matter has determined that this bus stop should be relocated to a more appropriate location. Proposed Solution MTA proposes that the North State/Henry (NCO) bus stop be moved approximately 552 -feet north of the current location to the North State/Scott Street intersection, see Attachment A. The proposed bus stop would be located approximately 25 -feet south of the N. State/Scott Street crosswalk. The proposed location would utilize curbs that are designated as a "no parking" zone. MTA has discussed this matter with the management and staff at Nuestra Casa and they have concluded that this stop would better serve their clients. Summary This proposal would ensure that bus riders would have safe and convenient access to and from MTA transit vehicles. Mendocino Trsnsit Authority k I N y P .L (A In ~?- ~o ~, ~ ra ~ s F ~^ w Ch ~ S o `y ` 1 v ~~ G~ ~~ O A Nn i O Z 1 1 R, o -F- `~-c( J ~ S iC ~ S 1 T~ x _ R U~- / J : ~„ [~' i Grp;. WaI K. ~ ', GrnSS wallc_ ""~' S CITY OF UKIAH MEMORANDUM DATE: January 15, 2004 TO: Traffic Engineering Committee FROM: Rick Seanor, Deputy Director of Public Works K~ SUBJECT: Proposed Bike Lanes on Oak Manor Drive Agenda Item V d. REQUEST: Submitted for the Traffic Engineering Committee's review is a request to install Class 2 bike lanes on Oak Manor Drive between Perkins Street and Gobbi Street. The proposed project will connect recently constructed Class 2 bike lanes on Gobbi Street with proposed Class 2 bike lanes on Perkins Street (Vichy Springs Road). This proposed project is currently advertised for construction by Mendocino County Department of Transportation. Oak Manor Drive is 40 feet wide from curb to curb. In order to install Class 2 bike lanes on this street, parking will need to be prohibited on one side of the street. Please reference Attachment "A" which is a copy of the Caltrans standards relating to bike lanes. Staff recommends that parking be prohibited on the entire length of the west side of Oak Manor Drive. DISCUSSION: Oak Manor School and Oak Manor Park are both located on the west side of Oak Manor Drive. Oak Manor Park has an off-street parking lot. Oak Manor School does not generate a substantial amount of off-site parking and has minimal use during the summer months. The east side of Oak Manor Drive is entirely residential. Staff does not recommend prohibiting parking on this side of the street. The City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, adopted on February 17, 1999 recommends the installation of Class 2 bike lanes on Oak Manor Drive between Perkins Street and Gobbi Street. Staff spoke to Mr. Steve Turner, Ukiah Unified School District, regarding the proposed bike lane project. While Mr. Turner is generally in support of the project, he stated that the buses exiting Oak Manor School property and turning south onto Oak Manor Drive would likely cross over the proposed center line for the bike lane project. Mr. Turner also stated that there are a few cars, which park in one of the bus turnout areas that may potentially interfere with bike traffic in the proposed southbound bike lane. In order to install the Class 2 bike lanes, the existing centerline would have to be removed and restriped. Class 2 bike lanes would need to be striped. In addition, appropriate signs designating the bike lanes would need to be installed. If the project is approved, the City will include the striping work in its annual street striping project to be completed this summer. The signs would be installed by the City street maintenance crew. Attachment "B" is a sketch of the proposed bike lane striping on Oak Manor Drive. The proposed bike lane striping will also serve to visually narrow the traveled way and hopefully reduce traffic speeds. RECOMMENDATION: Staff is submitting this report for review and discussion by the Traffic Engineering Committee (TEC). Staff recommends establishing Class 2 bike lanes extending the entire length and on both sides of Oak Manor Drive. cc: file R-~ ~c~mENT ,.A ,, HIGHWAY DESIGN MANUAL ..........__.. 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