FacilitiesTransportation Highlights 2009 0210

Home

2. Discussion Regarding 2009 Traffic Calming Program Keith Cooke gave a PowerPoint presentation regarding the 2009 Traffic Calming Program. He explained the background of the Traffic Calming Program as well as the process that residents follow to have their street considered for the Traffic Calming Program. He also presented how requests are prioritized and provided some past results of the Program. One challenge of the Traffic Calming Program is ensuring that emergency response vehicles are not hindered by traffic calming measures. He cited the recycled rubber speed lumps on Broadmoor as an example of successfully meeting this challenge. Keith also presented the 2007-2008 NTCP prioritization summary along with the status descriptions of the streets and the 2008-2009 NTCP List. } Discussion ensued. Councilmember Reed inquired if homes with children were given higher points when prioritizing requests for traffic calming. Uche explained that the number of children on a street does not factor into the decision. Keith explained that often requests for traffic calming are the result of residents who are concerned for the safety of neighborhood children. Mayor Santos stated that adding speed bumps to a street can increase the traffic on surrounding streets as drivers attempt to avoid speed bumps. In response to concerns of some City residents, Mayor Santos asked if Aurora between Marina and Fairway could have stripes painted down the middle because there is a question about where the center of the road is. Keith replied that stripes are generally used on main streets, not residential streets. As a point of clarification, Councilmember Souza asked how to go about getting a traffic study completed. Uche explained that there must be an imminent safety issue or through the normal CIP process. He explained that the NTCP process is consistent with the comprehensive approach to traffic calming that the Council agreed upon. Councilmember Souza asked if it is proper procedure to refer a resident who has a concern about traffic calming issues to City traffic staff. Uche responded yes. 3. Discussion Regarding I-580 Soundwall Keith Cooke gave a PowerPoint presentation regarding the I-580 Soundwall Project. He presented the history of the project including that 10 soundwalls were originally planned, but one was eliminated. He also provided an overview of the project details. One challenge of the Soundwall project is reflective noise. This challenge can be met with the use of sound absorptive material. The bid documents for this project will include sound absorptive material. Keith informed the Committee that Caltrans requires that the City maintain the soundwall sections adjacent to City streets for graffiti. The maintenance impact is estimated at $6- 8k per year. He asked that the Committee recommend to the full City Council that the City maintain the soundwall sections as required by Caltrans. Discussion ensued.