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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-03-18 Meeting PacketAGENDA Regular Meeting of the Edina Transportation Commission 6:00 PM, Thursday, March 18, 2010 Edina City Hall 4801 West 50th Street Council Chambers I. Call to Order II. Comments a. Chair Comments - Welcome new members b. Community Comments III. Acceptance of Meeting Summary a. Regular Meeting of February 18, 2010 *# IV. New Business a. MnPass (Heidi Rudh)*# b. 66 th Street Speed Study*+ c. Introduction to the Edina Transportation Commission# V. Planning Commission Update (Commissioner Schroeder) VI. Bike Edina Task Force Update (Commissioner Janovy) VII. Staff Liaison Comments a. 70th Street Reconstruction Update# b. Metro Transit Route 6# c. Community Comments from February 2010 VIII. Adjournment * Attachment included + Item requiring action by the ETC # Item for information only During "Public Hearings," the Chair will ask for public comment after City staff members make their presentations. If you wish to speak on the topic, you are welcome to do so as long as your comments are relevant to the discussion. To ensure fairness to all speakers and to allow the efficient conduct of a public hearing, speakers must observe the following guidelines: • Individuals must limit their presentations to three minutes or less. The Chair will modify presentation times, as deemed necessary. • Try not to repeat remarks or points of view made by prior speakers and limit comments to the matter under consideration. • In order to maintain a comfortable environment for all those in attendance, the use of signs, clapping, cheering or booing or any other form of verbal or nonverbal communication is not allowed. During "Public Comments," the Chair will ask to hear from those in attendance who would like to speak about something not on the agenda. Individuals must limit their presentations to three minutes or less and cannot speak to an issue for which a public hearing was previously held and closed or a matter scheduled for a future hearing. Individuals should not expect the [Board or Commission] to respond to their comments. Instead, the [Board or Commission] might direct the matter to staff for consideration at a future meeting. The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need assistance in the way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large-print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861 72 hours in advance of the meeting. MEETING SUMMARY OF THE Edina Transportation Commission Thursday, February 18, 2010 Edina City Hall 4801 West 50th Street Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Jennifer Janovy, Tom Bonneville, Usha Abramovitz MEMBERS ABSENT: Warren Plante, Geof Workinger, Jean White, Michael Schroeder, Julie Sierks, STAFF PRESENT: Jack Sullivan, Sharon Allison I. Call to Order The meeting was called to order by acting-chair Janovy. II. Comments a. Chairman Comments Acting-chair Janovy welcomed new members Commissioners Franzen and Sprague to the ETC. Their first official meeting is March 18. b. Community Comments Mr. Mark Chamberlain 7004 Bristol Blvd Mr. Chamberlain made the following traffic-related requests: 1. East towards W. 50th Street & France Avenue, at W. 50th Street & Wooddale Avenue, by St. Steven's Church, there is a sign that says "lane ends merge left," but traffic drives as though there are two lanes. Consider taking the sign down or stripe the roadway to make it obvious that it is one lane. 2. At W. 70th Street & France Avenue, heading west on W. 70th Street, the right hand lane was striped as a turn only lane to go north on France, middle lane is straight ahead only lane and left lane is left turn only lane. Requested that same be done on the other side of France Avenue (going east) coming from the Cornelia neighborhood. Currently, a driver in the right lane going straight ahead (east) is competing with a driver turning from France Avenue onto W. 70th Street into a one-lane roadway, and there is the potential for three drivers to be competing for the single lane. Also, the driver in the right lane wanting to go straight ahead has two or three drivers behind him wanting to make a right turn onto France but cannot because the lead car is waiting to go straight ahead. 3. W. 70th Street & Hwy 100, going east, approaching the bridge (overpass), sign indicates that the left-left turn lane is for north Hwy. 100 and the right left turn lane is for Normandale Blvd; however, when you go under the bridge at the stoplight, there is only one sign that says Hwy. 100 north and you'll get a driver in the right left turn lane trying to go onto Hwy. 100. Make it clear that both lanes are for Hwy. 100 or one is for Hwy. 100 and the other is for Normandale Blvd. 4. W. 72 ' Street & France Avenue, going east on W. 72nd Street toward France Avenue, drivers turn left onto France and the first possible right that they can make would be onto to Hazelton Road. From a safety standpoint, and convenience for those going south on France, consider making W. 72nd Street a 'no left turn lane.' Instead, cars could go up Lynmar Lane to Hazelton Road and safely cross France Avenue at the stoplight. 5. W. 72nd Street approaching Ohms Lane, coming from Metro Blvd, there is a sign that is only visible in the winter due to blooming trees other times of the year, indicating that both lanes are left turn lanes to go onto southbound Ohms Lane. There is not enough traffic to warrant two turn lanes. Request is to take the sign down and have one right turn and one left turn lane. 6. Please define school zone signs that say 'reduce speed when children are present.' 7. W. 70th Street between France Avenue and York Avenue at the roundabouts, the grasses is too tall which reduces visibility and impedes safety. 8. W. 70th Street & Metro Blvd, left turn lane from north Metro Blvd to W. 70th Street —stoplight was changed recently and it seems to be slowing traffic. There does not appear to be enough traffic making a left turn lane to justify having dedicated time. Consider making the light green for both north and south at the same. Acting-chair Janovy asked how the determination is made regarding which body is responsible for handling Mr. Chamberlain's requests. Mr. Sullivan explained that Mr. Chamberlain's requests are traffic safety related and are handled by the Traffic Safety Coordinator, Mr. Tate. He said generally residents call in or email their request directly to Mr. Tate. Mr. Sullivan said Mr. Chamberlain's requests will be forwarded to Mr. Tate. Ill. Approval of Minutes a. Regular Meeting of January 21, 2010 Approval was postponed until the next meeting due to a lack of quorum. Acting-chair Janovy said the meeting notes that was sent to the Zoning Committee differ from the minutes so they will need to decide if it should be included with the minutes or if the minutes will serve as the official record. IV. New Business a. MnPass Cancelled. b. Transit Link-Metro Transit Dial-A-Ride Mr. John Harper, supervisor of Transit Link at the Metropolitan Council, explained the services they offer. Mr. Harper said Transit Link, formerly Dial-A-Ride, offers bus services where other bus routes are not available. He said it is different from Metro Mobility which requires a certification for ridership. The service is available in the seven-county metro area, Monday- Friday, 6 a.m.-7 p.m. Fares vary from $2.25 to $6.75. Passengers must make reservation 5 days in advance and is expected to walk a quarter mile in the winter and a half mile in the summer. More information is available at www.transitlinktc.org. 2 V. Planning Commission Update (Commissioner Schroeder) No update. VI. Bike Edina Task Force Update (Commissioner Janovy) Chair Janovy reported that they had a joint meeting with the Council this past Tuesday; they continue to work on projects listed in the minutes; a new application is being written to name City of Edina as a bike friendly city; and the phase I route along 54th Street and up Wooddale Avenue to Valley View Road is progressing. VII. Staff Liaison Comments a. W. 70' Street Reconstruction Update Mr. Sullivan said W. 70th Street is in the final design phase and the plans will be going to Mn/DOT in two weeks for approval. He said it is still on schedule for reconstruction this summer and utility coordination work has already begun. b. 1-169 & 1-494 Interchange Improvement Update Mr. Sullivan said on February 11, Mn/DOT held on open house for this design-build project which will begin in 2010 if funding is secured (already this week they were turned down for one funding source). The current design does not include access from 1-494 to 1-169; however, it is being designed to accommodate access in the future. Also, Edina is looking closely at the Valley View Road and 1-169 design to be sure that it will serve the community in the long term. c. Metro Transit Route 6 Update Mr. Sullivan said Metro Transit met with the residents and has agreed to some revisions to their route. The new route is scheduled to begin May 15. New Business Mr. Sullivan said a petition was received requesting speed reduction from 35 mph to 30 mph on W. 66th Street, between Brittany Road and Cornelia Drive; and the Council has requested a resolution from the ETC to forward the request to Mn/DOT for study. Mn/DOT will do the study because W. 66th Street is a state aid road. The Annual Traffic Safety Report was distributed to commissioners. An article on Complete Streets by the Bicycle Alliance of MN was distributed. Acting-chair Janovy said it explains what Complete Streets are. Acting-chair Janovy asked for suggested topics for discussion for future meetings. Commissioner Bonneville suggested: 1) Streamlining the development review process; 2) The function of the ETC in regards to having jurisdiction of the process, e.g. should they review projects with 1,000 ADT or lower; and 3) Involvement the Small Area Planning with reference to the old Public Works building (Commissioner White has volunteered to serve on this committee). He said item 3 is considered old business and should be added to the agenda for follow-up discussion. Acting-chair Janovy suggested reviewing the bylaws. Additionally, Commissioner Bonneville suggested discussing whether the ETC should be statutory to the Planning Commission. VIII. Adjournment. Meeting adjourned. 3 MnPass Express Lanes In the fall of 2009, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will expand its successful MnPASS Express Lanes program by offering solo drivers on 1-35W the choice to pay a toll to access the HOV/carpool lanes and enjoy reliable travel times between the southern suburbs and downtown Minneapolis. Carpools with two or more occupants, motorcycles and transit buses will continue to use the Express Lanes free of charge. The two segments of 1-35W included in the program are from Highway 13 in Burnsville to 1-494 and from 1-494 to downtown Minneapolis. On a portion of the segment from 1-494 to downtown, transit vehicles, carpools and MnPASS customers can drive on a converted shoulder lane north of 42nd Street during certain times when traffic is congested. Electronic signs will alert drivers whether the shoulder is open or closed. The MnPASS Express Lanes program has been in existence on 1-394 west of Minneapolis since 2003. Tolls are collected electronically using a transponder placed inside the solo driver's windshield that debits the posted toll amount from a pre-paid account when the driver passes under gantries placed along the roadway. Toll amounts will vary based on the level of congestion, and will be adjusted to maintain a minimum speed of 50 miles per hour in the express lanes. Toll violations will be enforced by the Minnesota State Patrol using visual means and electronic devices. Project Benefits Increase efficiency of existing roadway: Carpool lanes are underused and have the capacity to accommodate more vehicles. By encouraging transit and carpools, and allowing solo drivers to pay a toll to access the lanes, existing roadways can be used more efficiently. Fast, safe, reliable travel: Through the use of dynamic pricing, Mn/DOT can manage the amount of traffic in the express lanes and maintain free-flowing speeds even when the general purpose lanes are congested. Motorists who choose to use the express lanes can count on reliable travel times. Environmentally Friendly: Idling cars are a significant source of air pollution. By managing congestion, drivers can conserve fuel, reduce air pollution and improve our environment. Revenue reinvested in the corridor: Tolls collected will be used to operate the lanes and for other transportation improvements in the I-35W corridor including transit. Additional Information If you would like more information on thel-35W Express Lanes Project you may visit the website at: www.mnpass.net. Or call the MnPASS Customer Service Center at 1-866-EZ-RIDE4 (1-866-397-4334). You can also send questions by email to customerservice@mnpass.net. Easy to get. Easy to use Downtown Minneapolis 38th St. North 46th St. • Minnehaha Pkwy. 60th St. Richfield Lyndale Ave. Bloomington 82nd St. 90th St. 98th St. Minnesota River Blackdog Rd. (Entry and Exit Points f) OA Burnsville 494 Easy to get. Easy to use.TM How to use the MnPASS Express Lanes 4$7,6 MnPASS Express Lanes are usually separated from regular lanes by double white lines. It's illegal to cross these lines. €) Overhead signs and striping alert you to the entry and exit points for MnPASS Express Lanes. You may only enter and exit MnPASS Express Lanes at designated points. 0 Overhead electronic signs display the current tolls—the price you see is the price you pay. If you are a carpooler or have a MnPASS transponder, you may safely merge into the MnPASS Express Lanes. (0 An overhead antenna reads your MnPASS transponder and automatically deducts the posted toll from your prepaid MnPASS account. 0 You get where you're going faster and with less hassle. .• What is MnPASS? ,m What are the MnPASS Express Lanes? 'lb What are Express Shoulder Lanes? v. Do transit users and carpoolers have to pay to use the MnPASS Express Lanes? -0. Do solo drivers have to pay? v. How can I use MnPASS? • How much does it cost to use the MnPASS Express Lanes? '111 What if I only want to use the express lane occasionally? v. How does the MnPASS System work? v. How much does a MnPASS transponder cost? v. How do I open a prepaid MnPASS account? a. How do MnPASS subscribers manage their MnPASS accounts? 0, I have more than one vehicle. Do I need more than one MnPASS transponder? v. What if I am a MnPASS customer who normally drives solo but decides to carpool with a passenger in my car, how do I keep from being charged for that trip? What if I use the MnPASS Express Lanes without an MnPASS transponder or without two or more occupants in my vehicle? .0 Do the MnPASS Express Lanes benefit all income levels? a' When solo drivers are allowed to enter MnPASS Express Lanes, don't those lanes become congested? v. How are transit users and carpoolers affected? O How do express lanes affect traffic in regular lanes? 0 Why don't we open the HOV lane to all traffic without restrictions? 0 What do people who actually use MnPASS Express Lanes think about them? O How do express lanes differ from toll roads? Do the MnPASS Express Lanes really work? Easy to get. Easy to tile' What is MnPASS? MnPASS is a Minnesota Department of Transportation program that gives solo drivers a new commuting choice-and "express" service that will save them time. It is also a better way to move traffic in metropolitan areas and make better use of existing roadways. What are the MnPASS Express Lanes? The MnPASS Express Lanes are high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane or carpool lanes that have been converted to "high-occupancy toll" lanes. With express lanes, solo drivers have the option of paying a user fee to gain access to the lanes. MnPASS Express Lanes currently operate on 1-394 between the western suburbs and downtown Minneapolis. New express lanes will open later this year on I-35W, connecting southern communities with downtown Minneapolis. What are Express Shoulder Lanes? An Express Shoulder Lane is equipped to operate as a MnPASS Express Lane during peak periods to maximize capacity on existing roadways. On I-35W between 42nd Street and downtown, transit vehicles, carpools and MnPASS customers will be able to drive on the left shoulder during congested periods. Electronic signs will alert drivers whether the shoulder is open or closed. Do transit users and carpoolers have to pay to use the MnPASS Express Lanes? No. transit riders and carpoolers can use MnPASS Express Lanes FREE of charge. Do solo drivers have to pay? It's your choice. The MnPASS Express Lanes offer solo drivers a new commute option: Pay to use the carpool lanes to get a fast, reliable trip or remain in the general-purpose lanes. Unlike traditional toll roads, drivers can choose on a trip-by-trip basis whether or not to pay to use the express lanes. If you are a solo driver and want to use the lanes, you must have a valid MnPASS account and a MnPASS transponder properly installed in your vehicle. How can I use MnPASS? MnPASS is easy to get and easy to use. You can get in the fast lane to MnPASS in three easy steps. Open a prepaid MnPASS account. -go Mount a MnPASS transponder on your windshield. 3,* Get in the MnPASS Express Lanes and go! How much does it cost to use the MnPASS Express Lanes? Currently on the 1-394 Express Lanes, the tolls during peak hours normally range from $1.00 to $4.00. It all depends on supply and demand. When the express lanes are empty, the price is reduced until the lanes begin to fill. When the lanes begin to fill, the price increases until the lane empties and regular highway speeds are restored. 90% of the drivers last year only paid $2.75 or LESS to travel on 394. The average toll was $1.50. Easy to get. Easy to use" What if I only want to use the express lanes occasionally? No problem. Use the express lanes as much as you want. You can choose whether to pay on a trip-by- trip basis, and most MnPASS drivers do use the express lanes occasionally. Anxious to avoid the expense associated with being late for day care, an appointment or work? Use the MnPASS Express Lanes to get there on time. How does the MnPASS System work? MnPASS Express Lanes are easy to use. The MnPASS Express Lanes are separated from regular lanes by either double white lines or a single yellow line. It's illegal to cross these lines. Overhead signs alert you to the entry and exit points which are separated from the regular lanes by dashed white lines. You may only enter and exit MnPASS lanes at designated poi nts. Electronic signs display the current fees—the price you see is the price you pay. If you are a carpooler or a solo driver with a MnPASS transponder, you may safely merge into the MnPASS lanes. An overhead antenna reads your MnPASS transponder and automatically deducts the posted fee from your prepaid MnPASS account. With MnPASS, you get where you're going faster with less hassle. Just get in and go! How much does a MnPASS transponder cost? Your MnPASS account works like a debit account. The minimum prepaid deposit is $40.00 per transponder. There is also a $1.50 per month transponder per transponder lease charge. MnDOT owns the transponder and takes responsibility for replacing the transponder if it malfunctions. When your account balance falls below $15.00 or one-week usage averaged over a three-month period (whichever is greater), the account is automatically replenished from your credit card or debit card. How do I open a prepaid MnPASS account? It's easy. You can open a prepaid MnPASS account with a credit card or debit card. There are three ways to open an account: Go online at www.mnpass.net. Call 1-866-EZ-RIDE4 (1-866-397-4334). Visit the MnPASS Customer Service Center at the MnDOT building—northwest corner intersection of Highway 100 and Duluth Street in Golden Valley. How do MnPASS subscribers manage their MnPASS accounts? MnPASS subscribers can access their account online at www.mnpass.net or by calling 1-866-397-4334. You can also choose to: =4, Sign up for a FREE monthly statement by e-mail showing the date and time of each charge. ▪ Set up a personal identification number (PIN), which allows you to view your account activity online. For $2.00, you can have a monthly statement mailed to you. Easy to get. Easy to use I have more than one vehicle., Do I need more than one MnPASS transponder? It's your choice. You can obtain more than one transponder and tie all of them to a single account. This is convenient for busy families and commercial operators with multiple vehicles. You may also transfer your MnPASS transponder between vehicles. What if I am a MnPASS customer who normally drives solo but decides to carpool with a passenger in my car, how do I keep from being charged for that trip? If you have a second person in the car, simply remove the MnPASS transponder from its bracket. This deactivates the transponder and you won't be charged the fee. Be sure to replace the transponder next time you drive solo to avoid a fine! What if I use the MnPASS Express Lanes without a MnPASS transponder or without two or more occupants in my vehicle? You would be in violation of state law and subject to a fine. The Minnesota State Patrol or other law enforcement officers will enforce this law. Do the MnPASS Express Lanes benefit all income levels? Yes. Recent research indicates drivers of all income levels are equally likely to use the Express Lanes. Surveys also reveal that people of all income levels support the idea. When solo drivers are allowed to enter MnPASS Express Lanes, don't those lanes become congested? No. Studies show that congestion in MnPASS Express Lanes can be managed through something as simple as supply and demand. When congestion increases, the price goes up; when congestion decreases, the price decreases. Requiring solo drivers to pay a fee ensures bus riders and carpoolers continue to travel in the express lanes at regular highway speeds. How are transit users and carpoolers affected? Transit users and carpoolers benefit. First, transit users and carpoolers can use the lanes FREE of charge. Requiring solo drivers to pay a fee ensures bus riders and carpoolers continue to travel in the express lanes at regular highway speeds. Moreover, at a time when transit funding is being cut, bus riders benefit from express lanes tolls because a portion of tolls are dedicated to funding transit improvements. In fact, a new Express Bus service is planned for the new I-35W MnPASS Express Lanes. How do MnPASS Express Lanes affect traffic in regular lanes? By allowing additional traffic onto underused HOV lanes, congestion in the general lanes is relieved. For example, the 1-394 MnPASS Express Lanes remove an average of 3,000 cars a day from the general-purpose lanes. Easy to get. Easy to use" Why don't we open the HOV lane to all traffic without restrictions Regardless of the relative merits of such an approach, the federal government opposes that approach and would impose multimillion-dollar penalties on Minnesota if it took that step. No federal penalties are associated with the use of express lanes. What do people who actually use MnPASS Express Lanes think about them? After the 1-394 express lanes opened, a survey of MnPASS subscribers found exceptionally high levels of satisfaction (90 percent or better) with many aspects of the system. How do Express Lanes differ from toll roads? Unlike traditional toll roads such as those in Chicago and New Jersey, there is no need to stop at a tollbooth to drop coins. With Express Lanes, there is no need to have cash or coins on hand. Instead, the MnPASS electronic toll-collection system collects the user fee electronically at freeway speed. With MnPASS, each driver can choose whether or not to pay a fee or remain in the general purpose lanes. Do the MnPASS Express Lanes really work? Research on MnPASS Express Lanes and other projects very similar to the MnPASS lanes shows that express lanes effectively manage traffic, encourage transit use, are supported by consumers, fund transit and freeway improvements and give drivers more options. These benefits are no longer a matter of speculation—they are documented fact. Easy to get. Easy to use- / 71q What is a "managed road?" In an effort to improve safety, ease congestion and maintain consistent speeds, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is introducing a new concept to Minnesota drivers. This concept, called a "managed road," will provide drivers with more information and additional transportation choices to make travel safer and create more reliable commute times. On Interstate 35W between Burnsville and downtown Minneapolis, Mn/DOT will use ramp meters, freeway cameras and electronic signage to provide real-time information to drivers that will help them make informed decisions. In addition, the new MnPASS Express Lanes and express transit will help keep traffic moving at consistent speeds. What kind of electronic signs will I see? Approximately every half mile drivers will see electronic signs over each lane of traffic. The electronic signs will inform drivers of incidents or lane closures and advise drivers on recommended speeds based on traffic or weather conditions. A red 'X' indicates that a lane is closed; a green arrow indicates that the lane is open. This innovative use of technology provides real-time information to drivers that improves safety and keeps traffic moving to reduce congestion, keep speeds steady and makes commuting safer. Over the MnPASS Express Lanes, signs provide drivers with needed information such as whether the lane is open and the toll being charged for use of the lane at that time. Why is the MnPASS lane between 42nd Street and downtown Minneapolis open sometimes and other times it is closed? On I-35W between 42nd Street and downtown, transit vehicles, carpools and MnPASS customers will be able to drive on the left shoulder during congested periods. Maximizing the existing road capacity will help keep traffic flowing smoothly. Electronic signs will alert drivers whether the shoulder is open or closed. When I-35W is not congested north of 42nd Street, the shoulder will not be used as a MnPASS lane and will be available for use by motorists in emergencies or by plow drivers to store snow temporarily during a snow storm. The new road also features emergency pull-offs on the right shoulder designed to accommodate vehicles when motorists need to change a tire, exchange information in a crash or respond to other mechanical breakdowns and enforcement. View a demonstration To view a demonstration of how the managed lane concept will work, go to the web at: http://www.dot.state .mn. us/upalanimation/UPA_video. html REPORT/RECOMMENDATION To: EDINA TRANSPORATION COMMISSION Agenda Item Item No. IV.B From: Jack Sullivan --'—' Assistant City Engineer X Action Discussion Information Date: March 18, 2010 Subject: 66th Street Speed Study ACTION REQUESTED: Recommend to the City Council that the Mayor sign the attached resolution requesting that the Commissioner of Transportation perform a speed study on West 66th Street from TH 100 to Valley View Road. INFORMATION/BACKGROUND: Eight residents who live on or near 66th Street petitioned the City in 2007 to reduce the speed limit on W. 66th Street between Valley View Road and Highway 100 from the current posting of 35 mph to 30 mph. Refer to the Traffic Safety Staff Review from March 8, 2007 for details regarding the request. Updated vehicle data is as follows: • 2008: 4600 Average Daily (ADT) with a 85% speed of 39.1 mph • 2009: 5551 ADT with 85% speed of 33.1 mph Since 66th Street is a State-Aid route, the City of Edina cannot lower the speed without an speed study performed by the Commissioner of Transportation. ATTACHMENTS: Please see Resolution 2010-27 and the Traffic Safety Staff Review from March 8, 2007. RESOLUTION NO. 2010-27 REQUESTING THE COMMISSIONER OF TRANSPORTATION PERFORM A SPEED STUDY ON WEST 66TH STREET FROM TH100 TO VALLEY VIEW ROAD City of Edina WHEREAS, West 66th Street is a Municipal State Aid route located in Edina; and WHEREAS, the speed limit on West 66th Street is 35 mph; and WHEREAS, West 66th Street is primarily located in a residential setting; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council is requesting that the Commissioner of Transportation perform a speed study on West 66th •Street from TH100 to Valley View Road for consideration of reducing the speed limit to 30 mph. Dated: February 16, 2010 Attest: Debra A. Mangen, City Clerk James B. Hovland, Mayor STATE OF MINNESOTA ) COUNTY OF HENNEPIN )SS CITY OF EDINA CERTIFICATE OF CITY CLERK I, the undersigned duly appointed and acting City Clerk for the City of Edina do hereby certify that the attached and foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the Edina City Council at its Regular Meeting of February 16, 2010, and as recorded in the Minutes of said Regular Meeting. WITNESS my hand and seal of said City this day of , 20 . City Clerk City Hall 952-927-8861 4801 WEST 50TH STREET FAX 952-826-0390 EDINA, MINNESOTA, 55424-1394 www.cityofedina.com TTY 952-826-0379 TRAFFIC SAFETY STAFF REVIEW Thursday, March 8, 2007 The staff review of traffic safety matters occurred on March 8, 2007. Staff present included the City Engineer, Assistant City Engineer, City Planner, Traffic Safety Coordinator and Chief of Police. From that review, the recommendations below are provided. On each of the items, persons involved have been contacted and the staff recommendation has been discussed with them. They were also informed that if they disagree with the recommendation or have additional facts to present, they can be included on the March 20, 2007 Council Agenda. SECTION A: Requests on which staff recommends approval: 1. Request to restrict parking in the off-street parking area on Kellogg Avenue just to the north of Valley View Road (northwest corner of intersection). Request comes from a resident on Kellogg Avenue who is concerned with vehicles parking in this area for long periods of time, including overnight. The area in question is a small cut-back parking area with eight striped parking spaces directly across from 6133 Kellogg Avenue. There are currently no parking restrictions in this area. The 6100 block of Kellogg Avenue is restricted to "One Hour Parking Monday Thru Friday 8 AM to 4 PM." These restrictions apply to both sides of the street. The small parking area in question allows customers of the corner businesses to park for more than one hour. The "One Hour" restriction on the 6100 block of Kellogg Avenue was approved by the City Council on September 16, 1996, at the request of residents via petition. Residents expressed concern that parking during the daytime was fully utilized on the south half of the block. Residents further stated that many times these parked vehicles infringed on their driveways. After further study and review by the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, staff recommends the following: Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 1 of 5 March 8, 2007 Staff recommends that signs be posted in the small cut-back parking area on the northwest corner of Kellogg Avenue and Valley View Road with the following restrictions: "No Parking 10 PM to 8 AM. 2. Request to reduce the speed limit on W. 66th Street between Valley View Road and Highway 100 from its current posting of 35 MPH to 30 MPH. Request comes from a resident in the 4200 block of west 66th Street with a petition signed by seven other homeowners. These residents are concerned with the speed and the volume of vehicles traveling along 66th Street at speeds of 35 MPH and higher. Requestor states that other streets in the area ( W. 64th Street, Valley View Road, W. 70th Street and East Frontage Road) are all posted 30 MPH. Requestor sees no reason to have an increased speed limit along this small stretch of roadway (speed is reduced to 30 MPH west of Highway 100). Requestor also cites the high volume of pedestrians in the area due to its unique location (Rosland Park, play ground, swimming pool and Lake Cornelia), all attracting a large number of visitors, walkers, bikers and joggers. A large number of pedestrians, mostly children, cross W. 66th Street to get to the park. Requestor states that the sidewalk along W. 66th Street is extremely close to the road which could possibly cause a dangerous situation. W. 66th Street, east of Valley View Road is a divided four lane roadway with a posted speed limit of 30 MPH that chokes down to two lanes immediately west of Valley View Road where the speed limit increases to 35 MPH. The average Monday thru Friday daily traffic count on this section of W. 66th Street is 6,234 with an 85th percentile speed of 38.1 MPH. There have been nine reported traffic accidents from 2000-2005 (4- injury and 5-property damage). No pedestrian accidents have been reported. Statistics for 2006 to the present have not yet been obtained. Staff checked records as far back as 1975 and could not find a date when the 35 MPH speed limit had been established. A similar request was made in June of 1999 and was denied (staff felt that the 35 MPH speed was appropriate and requested that the police department step up enforcement). W. 66th Street between Valley View Road and Highway 100 is classified as a city "Collector" street. Changing speed limits on city streets must be authorized by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. After much study and review, staff recommends the following: Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 2 of 5 March 8, 2007 Staff recommends that the City of Edina make a formal request to the Minnesota Department of Transportation to conduct a Traffic Speed Study on W. 66th Street between Valley View Road and Highway 100 to determine a safe driving speed while achieving maximum traffic flow. 3. Request to reduce the speed limit on Vernon Avenue between Villa Way and View Lane from the current posting of 40 MPH to 30 MPH. This request comes from two residents (one on Glengarry Pkwy. and another on Schaefer Road). Both residents feel that the higher speed limit on this stretch of Vernon Avenue is not needed. W. 50th Street/Vernon Avenue has a speed limit of 30 MPH from France Avenue to Villa Way. The speed limit increases to 40 MPH from Villa Way west to View Lane. Speeds reduce back to 30 MPH west of View Lane. Staff has checked records back to 1975 and was unable to find a date when this speed limit was established. Both residents feel that the additional speed is not needed and that it only increases accident severity. Vernon Avenue (County Road 158) is classified as an "A" Minor Arterial Reliever Street. It has a Monday thru Friday average daily traffic count of 10,400 vehicles with an 85th percentile speed of 44.5 MPH (in 40 MPH zone). There have been 25 reported accidents in the 40 MPH zone from 1/1/2000 to 6/17/06. Accidents are broken down as follows: 4 Injury accidents 6 Possible injury accidents 15 Property damage accidents There were 17 accidents, during the same time period, reported in the 30 MPH zone east of Villa Way: 1 Injury accident 2 Possible injury accidents 14 Property damage accidents There were 6 accidents, during the same time period, reported in the 30 MPH zone west of View Lane: 1 Possible injury accident 5 Property damage accidents Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 3 of 5 March 8, 2007 W. 56th Street is a 26-foot wide city street with no curb, gutter or sidewalks. It has an average Monday thm Friday daily traffic count of 823 vehicles with an 85th percentile speed of 29.5 MPH. W. 56 th Street at Code Avenue is controlled with a two-way stop. There have been no reported accidents since 2000. Code Avenue at W. 56th Street is a controlled intersection. Sight lines are adequate for anyone who uses due caution while approaching from all directions. The grade on Code Avenue to the south of W. 56th Street is not steep enough to warrant an advanced hill warning sign. Staff recommends that no changes be made to the intersection of W. 56th Street and Code Avenue due to lack of warrants. SECTION C: Requests that are deferred to a later date for referred to others. None for March 8, 2007 meeting. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 5 of 5 March 8, 2007 Requestor further states that the 40 MPH zone on Vernon Avenue is in an area where there are hills, curves and residences with blind drives. Requestor states that the 40 MPH portion of Vernon Avenue is only 1.3 miles long and it takes approximately 156 seconds to traverse this distance at 30 MPH. It takes approximately 117 seconds at 40 MPH (not verified by staff). Requestor states that legislation enacted in 2006 (169.224) permits "Neighborhood Electric Vehicles" to be operated on roadways with posted speed limits of 35 MPH or less. He states that such vehicles are becoming popular in Edina and preventing them from using Vernon Avenue poses an unfair burden on those seeking to reduce the use of imported fuel and to help preserve our environment. After much study and review, staff recommends the following: Staff recommends that the City of Edina make a formal request to the Minnesota Department of Transportation, through Hennepin Countyl to conduct a traffic speed study on Vernon Avenue between Villa Way and View Lane to determine a safe driving speed while achieving maximum traffic flow. SECTION B: Requests on which staff recommends denial of request: 1. Request to evaluate the intersection of Code Avenue and W. 56th Street and add some type of advanced warning sign to alert drivers to a blind intersection. Requestor is a resident on Code Avenue who states he has witnessed near accidents at the intersection of Code Avenue and W. 56th Street from northbound vehicles. Requestor feels that this intersection is "blind" and that some type of warning signs should be installed to alert drivers. Code Avenue is a 26-foot wide city street with an average Monday thru Friday daily traffic count of 1,096 vehicles. Code Avenue has no curb, gutter or sidewalks. Code Avenue is a through street at the intersection of W. 56th Street. Code Avenue has a slight downhill grade south of W. 56th Street. There have been no reported accidents since 2000. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 4 of 5 March 8, 2007 REPORT/RECOMMENDATION To: EDINA TRANSPORATION COMMISSION Agenda Item Item No. VII.0 From: Jack Sulliva /- Assistant City Engineer Action Discussion Information Date: March 18, 2010 X Subject: Community Comments from February 2010 ACTION REQUESTED: No action required by the Edina Transportation Commission (ETC). INFORMATION/BACKGROUND: A resident gave testimony during the community comment period of the February 18, 2010 ETC meeting. These eight issues were forwarded to the Traffic Safety Committee (TSC) for review and recommendation. The recommendation of the TSC is included for your information. 1. Your concerns at W. 50th Street east bound from Wooddale Ave where the street narrows from two lanes to one. Recommendation: Traffic speeds, volume and accident records indicate minimal operational issues at this location. The signage and stripping of this street should remain unchanged. 2. Concerns with lane striping at W. 70th & France Ave going east on W. 70th Street Recommendation: Lane signage and striping will be evaluated with the upcoming 70th Street reconstruction project. 3. W. 70th Street signage at Highway 100 for east bound traffic. Signs designating lanes for north bound 100 and north bound Normandale Road Recommendation: Lane signage and striping will be evaluated with the upcoming 70th Street reconstruction project. 4. Making 72nd Street at France Ave a "No Left Turn" routing traffic north bound on Lynmar Lane to Hazelton. Recommendation: The intersection of 72nd and Hazelton shall remain unchanged. Diversion of traffic down another residential street is not consistent with City practices. 5. W. 72nd Street approaching Ohms Lane. Sign blocked by trees and not enough traffic to warrant two left turn lanes Recommendation: Signage has been modified to remove the outside turn lane. The vegetation will be trimmed in the coming weeks. 6. Please define school zone signs that say reduce speed when children are present Recommendation: Signage is compliant with MnMUTCD and State Law. The intent of the signage is to only enforce while children are visibly present outside of the school. (Present, going to or leaving school during opening or closing hours or during school recess periods.) 7. The grass is too tall at the roundabouts reducing visibility and impeding safety Recommendation: Public works continually maintains the vegetation to ensure visibility. 8. Request to eliminate the left turn arrow for south bound Metro Blvd traffic at W. 70th St. due to lack of traffic volume Recommendation: This intersection was recently studied and improvements to the signals were made in conjunction with the roadway improvements. The signal will be monitored for future modifications. ATTACHMENTS: No attachments included. TRAFFIC SAFETY STAFF REVIEW Wednesday, January 6, 2010 The staff review of traffic safety matters occurred on January 6, 2010. Staff present included the City Engineer, Assistant City Engineer, City Planner, Traffic Safety Coordinator, Sign Coordinator and Chief of Police. From that review, the recommendations below are provided. On each of the items, persons involved have been contacted and the staff recommendation has been discussed with them. They were also informed that if they disagree with the recommendation or have additional facts to present, they can be included on the January 19, 2010, Council Agenda. SECTION A: Requests on which staff recommends approval of request: 1. Request for No Parking signs on the west side of Wooddale Avenue from Valley View Road south to the entrance/exit of the parking lot of 4545 Valley View Road. 4545 Valley View Road is a multi-unit apartment building located on the southwest corner of Valley View Road and Wooddale Avenue. Access to the parking lot of this building is off of Wooddale Avenue approximately one-half block south of Valley View Road. There is a moderate down-hill grade on Wooddale Avenue from Valley View Road to the parking lot entrance. Requestor states that it is difficult for drivers exiting the parking lot onto Wooddale Avenue to see oncoming traffic when cars are parked on the west side of Wooddale Avenue between the parking lot entrance/exit and Valley View Road. Cars must pull out into the driving lane to see to the north when vehicles are parked at this location. Requestor states that all residents of 4545 Valley View Road have off street parking. This area is currently signed "No Parking Here to Corner" on the west side of Wooddale Avenue from Valley View Road, south for approximately 50-feet. This leaves room for two or three vehicles to park to the north of the parking lot entrance/exit. Requestor states that it is unsafe to exit onto Wooddale Avenue when cars are parked at this location. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 1 of 8 January 6, 2010 GAEngineering\Infrastructure\Streets\Traffic\Traffie Advisory Committee\ Staff Review Summaries\10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 Staff has studied this area and feels that a safety issue does exist for exiting vehicles when cars are parked directly to the north of the parking lot of 4545 Valley View Road. On street parking is allowed on the west side of Wooddale Avenue to the south of the parking lot entrance/exit. Staff recommends that the No Parking restriction that currently exists on the west side of Wooddale Avenue from Valley View Road to approximately 50-feet south be extended to the north curb line of the parking lot of 4545 Valley View Road. 2. Request for "No Parking/Standing/Waiting" signs to be posted on the east side of Grimes Avenue between the entrance to Weber Park and the intersection of Grimes and Inglewood Avenues. This request comes from a resident on Inglewood Avenue who is concerned with traffic safety at the intersection of Grimes Avenue and Inglewood Avenue during the afternoon hours when parents pick up their children from Calvin Christian School (4015 Inglewood Avenue). Requestor states that parents waiting in line frequently sit within 30-feet of the intersection of Grimes Avenue and Inglewood Avenue causing confusion and safety issues for other motorists using the roadway. This request was brought before the Traffic Safety Committee in April of 2009. Since then, numerous staff hours have been spent researching and studying this issue. Afternoon pickup traffic patterns have been observed by three different City departments on several different occasions. Also, staff has met several times with the school principal and members of their school board. The Safe Routes to School program focuses on the safety of students coming and going from school and staff feels that the current circulation for parent pickup is the safest for this area. Our reasoning is based on that all students are dropped off and picked up at curb-side in the turn-around areas. The previous layout of the school has children crossing vehicle drive lanes to waiting vehicles. It is very unsafe to have children cross vehicle drive lanes to waiting vehicles. Staff has also observed similar traffic problems at many other schools in Edina. These include South View Middle School, Concord Elementary School, Cornelia Elementary School, Countryside Elementary, and Valley View Middle School. Most of the traffic issues occur during student pickup times. These issues include vehicles blocking roadways and students crossing roadways to waiting vehicles. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 2 of 8 January 6, 2010 GAEngineering\Infrastructure\Streets\Traffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\Staff Review SummariesU 0 TSAC & Min \Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 Staff feels that the following recommendation will address this issue with no adverse impact to area residents. Staff recommends that signs be posted on northbound Grimes Avenue 30- feet south of Inglewood Avenue, and on Inglewood Avenue, 30-East of Grimes Avenue, that state, "No Parking Here To Corner". An advisory sign will be attached to these signs that read, "No Vehicle Standing or Waiting." A violation of this posting would fall under Minnesota State Statue 169.34 Subd. 7 and could be enforced by police. Furthermore, school principal Steve Groen states that he will launch a campaign to educate family members picking up their children to not enter the 30-foot zone and possibly have one of his staff at the intersection to help in the learning process. The school will also have a higher percentage of parents use the rear entrance (Weber Park Road off of Grimes Avenue) to alleviate some of the traffic on Inglewood Avenue. Staff will continue to monitor the situation and make recommendations as needed. Staff recommends approval of "No Parking Here To Corner" signs with advisory signs that read, "No Vehicle Standing or Waiting" attached. These signs will be located on Grimes Avenue 30-feet south of the intersection of Inglewood Avenue and on Inglewood Avenue 30- feet east of the intersection of Grimes Avenue. SECTION B: Requests on which staff recommends denial of request: Request to remove the "Left Turn Arrow" from the semaphore at West 70th Street and Metro Boulevard for southbound Metro Boulevard traffic. Requestor feels that the newly implemented left turn arrow for south- bound Metro Boulevard traffic into the Child Development Center (5015 West 70th Street) is unnecessary because it stops traffic traveling northbound on Metro Boulevard while the left turn arrow is active. Requestor states that this left turn arrow needlessly wastes time and fuel for northbound traffic while the arrow times out. The intersection of West 70th Street and Metro Boulevard was reconstructed this past summer. The semaphore timing on all legs of this intersection work on separate cycles. The left turn arrow in question is Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 3 of 8 January 6, 2010 GAEngineering\Infrastructure\Streets\Traffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\Staff Review Summaries\ 10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 also a through-traffic green light. In addition, a right turn only lane for west- bound 70th Street was added. Approximately 25,000 vehicles per day (all legs) travel through this intersection at speeds of 34.6 M.P.H. with several accidents reported each year. Staff feels that the changes implemented will help the flow of traffic and increase safety. Traffic traveling on westbound 70th street to continue onto southbound Metro Boulevard must negotiate a curve in the roadway. The Child Development Center at 5015 West 70th Street sees heavy traffic in the morning and afternoon hours. Prior to the implementation of the left turn arrow, cars waiting to make a left turn into the Child Center would back up West 70th Street traffic around this curve causing a potential for rear- end and lane-change accidents. The "Left Turn Arrow-Through Traffic Green" allows for the smooth flow of traffic and greatly reduces the chance of accidents. The "Left Turn Arrow" is on a fairly quick cycle and staff feels that the short wait for north bound traffic is a small price to pay for the added safety to this intersection. The City of Edina, along with Hennepin County, continue to monitor the timing of this intersection and will be making changes if they are deemed necessary for safety and smooth traffic flow. Staff recommends the denial of the request for removing the 'Left Turn Arrow" from the semaphore at West 70th Street and Metro Boulevard for southbound Metro Boulevard traffic. 2. Request for a "Left Turn Only" lane on Gleason Road for southbound traffic turning into the southern most drop-off/pick-up area of Creek Valley School. This request comes from a resident on Indian Hills Pass who states that while she waits to make a left turn into the school drop-off/pick-up area of Creek Valley School, traffic is needlessly backed up behind her on Gleason Road. Gleason Road, in this area, is a 34-foot wide "B-Minor Arterial" roadway with an average Mon.-Fri. daily traffic count of 10,089 and an 85th- percentil speed of 33.9 MPH. Gleason Road has curb, gutter, and a side walk on the east side. This stretch of Gleason Road falls within the newly implemented 20 MPH school speed limit zone. Parking is prohibited on both sides of the street. There has been one property damage accident Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 4 of 8 January 6, 2010 GAEngineering\InfrastructureStreets\Traffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\Staff Review Summaries\10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 reported on Gleason Road between Indian Hills Pass and Creek Valley Road in the past five years. Gleason Roads 34-foot width is too narrow to accommodate a left turn only lane. Also, there is a petition currently circulating for a sidewalk on the west side of Gleason Road as well as the possibility of future bike lanes. All-way stops currently exist on Gleason Road at Indian Hills Pass to the north and Creek Valley Road to the south. Staff recommends the denial of the request to add a "Left Turn Only" lane on Gleason Road for southbound traffic at the southern entrance of Creek Valley School due to roadway width. 3. Request for a "10-Minute Loading Zone" sign in front of 4936 France Avenue to allow customers to pick-up and drop-off items. This request comes from the Consignment Center at 4936 France Avenue who wants customers to be able to pick-up and drop-off items without being ticketed for the no parking violation. This section of France Avenue (CSAH 17) is currently signed "No Parking Anytime" and is also a MCTO bus stop. Because France Avenue is a County Road, approval would be needed from Hennepin County. Staff contacted Hennepin County and was informed that no changes could be made to this section of CSAH 17 for the following reason: "Upon review, the county has determined that it cannot comply with the request for a loading zone. The reason for this is that the loading zone request is within the only southbound thru travel lane on France Avenue. Allowing vehicles to stop here for up to 10 minutes will cause operational problems on southbound France Avenue." It should be noted that a similar request from 4942 France Avenue (Barber Shop) was denied by the county on 11/30/2007 for the same reason. Staff recommends the denial of the request for a "10-Minute Loading Zone" sign at 4936 France Avenue per Hennepin County policy. 4. Request to prohibit all commercial trucks from using West 641h Street, west of Xerxes Avenue, from making delivers to area business' by re- routing them to West 66th Street. Also, ban garbage trucks from makin, commercial pick-ups before 7:00 AM. and posting signs on West 64! Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 5 of 8 January 6, 2010 GAEngineering\Infrastructure\ Streets \Traffic \Traffic Advisory Committee\Staff Review Summaries\ 10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 Street, west of Xerxes Avenue that read, "Not a Through Street or Truck Route." Also, the speed and volume of traffic on Xerxes Avenue poses a danger to resident drivers, pedestrians, bikers and kids. Request for a pedestrian overpass at 65th and Xerxes Avenue, crosswalk flashing lights and to lower the speed limit for all commercial trucks using Xerxes Avenue or re-route them to France Avenue. Note: Requestor was advised, via phone message left with his wife, that all concerns regarding Xerxes Avenue (CSAH 31) must go through Hennepin County. This request comes from a resident on the 6400 Block of Xerxes Avenue who represents the East Central Edina Residents Association. This newly formed association represents residents south of Highway 62 and north of West 66th Street along Xerxes and York Avenues. Requestor states that commercial vehicles on W. 64th Street pose a danger to pedestrians and bicycles and cause unwanted noise in a residential area. Requestor states that garbage trucks making commercial pick-ups cut through West 64th Street as early as 4:00 a.m. waking up area residents. He states that semi- trucks also use West 64th Street to make deliveries causing additional noise. Xerxes Avenue (CSAH 31) is a "B Minor Arterial" roadway with an average Mon.-Fri. daily traffic count of 20,100. No speed data is available on Xerxes Avenue and no data exists on W. 64t1 Street. There have been several accidents on Xerxes Avenue at West 64th Street in the past five years but only one accident has been reported in the area bounded by the East Central Edina Residents Association. The above request was sent to the Traffic Safety Committee by letter. Three attempts to contact requestor were made by leaving messages with his wife. None of these calls have been returned. This area of Edina is a busy commercial area that sees and requires many commercial vehicles. Staff is requesting the denial of the request to ban all commercial vehicles on West 641h Street. Staff recommends the denial of the request to ban all commercial vehicles on West 64th Street west of Xerxes Avenue for lack of follow- up by requestor. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 6 of 8 January 6, 2010 GAEngineering\Infrastructure\Streets\Traffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\ Staff Review Summaries\ 10 TSAC & Min \Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 5. Request for additional stop signs on West 42nd Street from France Avenue to Oakdale Avenue (western City limits). This request comes from Council Member Bennett following an inquiry from residents who are concerned with traffic safety in and around the intersection of West 42" Street and Grimes Avenue. Residents reported a concentration of problems during the periods of time immediately before and after the school day at Golden Years Montessori School, specifically 8:45 to 9:15 a.m. and 2:45 to 3:15 p.m. All intersections on West 42" Street between France Avenue and Grimes Avenue are controlled with stop signs on the north/south streets. West 42" Street is controlled with all-way stops at Alden Avenue and Grimes Avenue. All intersections on West 42nd Street between Grimes Avenue and the western City limits are controlled with stop signs on the north/south streets. West 42" Street is controlled with all-way stops at Monterey Ave and Oakdale Avenue. All intersections on West 42nd Street from France Avenue to the western City limits have been reviewed. Relevant speed, volumes, accident records and sight obstruction have also been reviewed by staff. Additional stop signs along West 42nd Street would not meet traffic volume warrants. Staff conducted radar speed studies for several days at different times and locations along West 42nd Street between France Avenue and Oakdale Avenue. On all days, speeds were consistently below the posted 30 mph limit. The total average speed for the entire study was 27.7 mph. which is consistent with prior speed studies taken in the same area in previous years. Staff also observed traffic patterns at the Golden Years Montessori School during the afternoon pick-up times (2:45-3:15 p.m.). Parents would park at the curb on the north side of West 42nd Street and wait for staff to bring out the children. Staff would bring the child of the parent in the first car and then the line would move up once that vehicle left. The pick-up seemed to be well organized and no children were seen crossing the street. Parking in front of the school is allowed on both sides of the street. The street at this location is 32-feet wide. The only problem observed by staff was when one vehicle was parked on the south side of West 42" Street directly in front of the school. This legally parked vehicle narrowed the roadway enough that passing cars needed to pull out into the oncoming lane in order to get around it. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 7 of 8 January 6, 2010 MEngineering\infrastructure\Streetsgraffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\Staff Review Summaries\ 10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 Staff will continue to monitor traffic at this location during the a.m. and p.m. hours and work with the school staff to ensure continued traffic safety. The Edina Police Department stated it will monitor and enforce traffic laws on West 42nd Street and Grimes Avenue. The request for additional stop signs along West 42'1 Street does not meet City of Edina policy warrants. Staff recommends the denial of the request for additional stop signs along West 42nd Street between France Avenue and Oakdale Avenue for lack of warrants. SECTION C: Requests that are deferred to a later date or referred to others. None for Wednesday, January 6, 2010 meeting. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 8 of 8 January 6, 2010 GAEngineering\Infrastructure\Streets\Traffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\Staff Review Summaries\ 10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 01-06-10 TRAFFIC SAFETY STAFF REVIEW Wednesday, March 3, 2010 The staff review of traffic safety matters occurred on March 3, 2010. Staff present included the City Engineer, Assistant City Engineer, City Planner, Traffic Safety Coordinator, Sign Coordinator and Police Traffic Supervisor. From that review, the recommendations below are provided. On each of the items, persons involved have been contacted and the staff recommendation has been discussed with them. They were also informed that if they disagree with the recommendation or have additional facts to present, they can be included on the March 16, 2010, Council Agenda. SECTION A: Requests on which staff recommends approval of request: None for Wednesday, March 3, 2010 meeting. SECTION B: Requests on which staff recommends denial of request: 1. Request for an overhead pedestrian bridge crossing Xerxes Avenue at West 64th Street, or at the very least, a painted pedestrian crosswalk at this location. This request comes from a resident on the 6400 block of Xerxes Avenue who represents the East Central Edina Residents Association. This newly formed association represents residents south of Highway 62 and north of West 66th Street along Xerxes and York Avenues. The requestor states that Xerxes Avenue traffic is so heavy that it makes it impossible for pedestrians to cross at West 64th Street. Requestor states that many residents in this area are seniors and cross Xerxes Avenue to use the businesses at Southdale Square. This request, along with several others for the same location, were first heard by the Traffic Safety Committee on January 6, 2010. At that time, all requests within the jurisdiction of the City of Edina were addressed and the requestor was referred to Hennepin County with the request for a Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 1 of 2 March 3, 2010 G:\Engineering\Infrastructure\Streets\Traffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\Staff Review Summaries \10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 030310 pedestrian crosswalk crossing Xerxes Avenue because Xerxes Avenue, at this location, is a Hennepin County roadway (CSAH 31). Hennepin County staff has now referred this request back to Edina for opinion/input on this request. Xerxes Avenue is a "B" Minor Arterial roadway with an average Monday- Friday daily traffic count of 20,100 vehicles (The County does not have publicized speed data at this location). The Edina Police Department enforces speed at this exact location and reports that speeds are frequently in excess of 40 MPH. Xerxes Avenue has curb, gutter, and sidewalks on both sides. Xerxes Avenue has a span of 110 feet with a fairly wide center median. There have been four reported accidents at this location in the past five years (One injury, one possible injury, and two property damage). City crosswalk policy states that pedestrian crosswalks "Shall not be located on arterial roads or roads with a speed limit greater than 30 MPH unless in conjunction with signalization." Any pedestrian crosswalk at this location would have to be accompanied by a traffic signal. A pedestrian crosswalk with a traffic signal is currently located two blocks to the south at West 66th Street. The request for an overhead pedestrian bridge and a traffic signal will be referred back to Hennepin County. Staff recommends denial of the request for a painted pedestrian crosswalk crossing Xerxes Avenue at West 64th Street for lack of warrants. SECTION C: Requests that are deferred to a later date or referred to others. None for Wednesday, March 3, 2010 meeting. Traffic Safety Staff Review Page 2 of 2 March 3, 2010 GAIEngineering\Infrastructure\Streets\Traffic\Traffic Advisory Committee\ Staff Review Summaries\10 TSAC & Min\Traffic Safety Review 030310