Minutes - Public Works Committee - 08/19/2009

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Public Works Supervisor Reimer and Assistant City Engineer Jankowski reviewed the staff report. Chairperson Elvig stated there had been many accidents in the area, noting that the inconsistent speed limits along Alpine Drive, perhaps, contributed to why speed limits are being questioned. Councilmember Dehen stated that the speed limit is 50 mph, and asked what the recommended limit would be. Assistant City Engineer Jankowski stated one of the factors for basing a safe speed is using the 85 percentile speed, which involved collecting speed data in an unmarked car and tallying up what speed 85 percent of the cars are driving. The Committee reviewed and discussed the cost and use of crosswalks on the illustrated maps provided, including sight distance, access points, and trail and neighborhood connections. They also noted how far people would have to walk out of their way without a connecting crosswalk. Chairperson Elvig asked about jaywalking laws and stating that by not having a crosswalk it encourages people to walk through the street. He stated he expressed his concerns to the Police and Fire departments at National Night regarding children crossing the street to get to the park. Councilmember McGlone referred to the steps, asking if a path could zigzag down the hill to save cost and also be wheelchair and bicycle accessible. . Assistant City Engineer Jankowski stated that could be reviewed as an option. Councilmember Dehen stated his concerns about the crosswalks only serving a limited amount of people and being age specific. Assistant City Engineer Jankowski stated the crosswalks would be serving 38 residents. Greg Schatz, 6581153rd WayNW, referred to the interchange area, stating where all the property lines corne together, there is no room and would be impeding on resident's property. Public Works Director Olson stated Staff are aware of this, explaining they are trying to justify the amount of funding that would to be used, therefore; adding some regional benefit. He also explained the need for ample access to all of the residents involved. Councilmember Dehen asked if the connections have been discussed with residents. Assistant City Engineer Jankowski stated no, Staff felt they needed to present to the Committee first. Councilmember Dehen asked if the speed limit could be decreased on Alpine Drive until the regional connections are determined. Assistant City Engineer Jankowski stated no, the Committee doesn't have that authority. Public Works Committee / August 19., 2009 Page 2 of 8