FacilitiesTransportation Highlights 2009 0714

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Garage project (with a small match from the City), and the remaining funds applied toward other projects. Mayor Santos reiterated his position on returning all bond money so as not to add to the City's current deficit. Mayor Santos insisted that Uche and Steve look into the matter further. 2. Discussion Regarding Traffic Operations Center Keith Cooke gave a PowerPoint presentation regarding the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) Upgrade. He provided a brief description of the existing system that was installed in the late 1990s. At this time, 56 signals on 10 communication channels are connected to the ATMS via fiber optics (36) and wireless interconnection (6). Of the 56 signals, 14 are isolated and will require interconnection to the system. There are 17 signals that have video detection capability (CCTV), which allows viewing of those intersections from the traffic control centers. The system operates on serial ports (modem technology), making the system very slow and nearly at the end of its useful life. Keith stressed the need to upgrade the existing ATMS to be consistent with current technology of both hardware and software. The existing system was assessed and systems implemented in other cities were reviewed to help the Transportation staff design an upgrade that will best match the City's current and future system needs and budget. Western Pacific Signal, LLC was selected as the consultant and final details are being worked on. The initial equipment testing process takes place in September 2009, and in January 2010, the upgrade will be up and running. Councilmember Reed asked if there will still be a need for two Traffic Centers (located in City Hall and in Public Works Signal Shop), to which Keith responded that both will remain open despite the upgrade. Keith assured that the upgrade will allow more traffic and street information to be shared with the public, as well as other agencies and organizations on a real time basis and will also improve traffic control strategies. 3. Discussion Regarding MacArthur Boulevard Phase II Ken delivered a presentation on the MacArthur Boulevard Phase II project. He specifically addressed a portion of the project at the MacArthur/Foothill/Superior intersection. A variety of traffic issues (speeding, collisions/injuries, short merge lanes) present some design challenges. Ken presented four design alternatives for Council's consideration: Alternative 1 - No intersection improvement; Alternative 2 - Operational changes; Alternative 3 - A signalized intersection; and Alternative 4 — A Roundabout. The advantage of Alternative 2 is that it allows for minimal capital, maintenance and operation costs ($10,000). Alternative 3 provides for a four-way signalized intersection at a cost of $660,000 and the free right turn to Foothill Boulevard would be closed. Mayor Santos expressed concern about blocking the lane from Sheffield Village to continue onto MacArthur Boulevard. Alternative 4 will route traffic more efficiently, improve safety, as well as esthetics.